Itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy is a fairly common phenomenon that often worries expectant mothers and causes them great discomfort.

Itching is a mild pain sensation transmitted through pain receptors. It is usually caused by weak irritants that cannot be identified by the nervous system. Such sensations can be localized in one specific area or throughout the body. In any case, itching is an unpleasant symptom, and the constant desire to scratch irritated areas of the skin exhausts a pregnant woman.

Itching during pregnancy can appear as a result of polymorphic dermatosis of pregnancy - a condition in which a rash appears on the stomach and thighs of the expectant mother. This is not dangerous, so in this case it is enough to use special ointments and creams for stretch marks. Almost always, this type of itching disappears after childbirth. During pregnancy, this symptom can manifest itself on any area of the skin, as well as on the mucous membranes. Itching is often caused by the growth of the pregnant woman's abdomen and occurs as a result of stretching of the ligaments. In this case, you can get rid of the unpleasant sensations with the help of oils that help partially eliminate stretch marks.

During pregnancy, a woman may also experience vaginal itching. The reason for this symptom is the increased production of vaginal secretions, which provokes the activation and development of harmful microorganisms and fungi. Itching caused by thrush is especially unpleasant - it causes a lot of inconvenience to the pregnant woman. In addition, an infection of the genitals in a pregnant woman can pose a danger to the fetus, so with such unpleasant symptoms as itching, the expectant mother should definitely consult a doctor for diagnosis and timely elimination of the disease.

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Causes of Itching During Pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy, causing a scratching reflex, is observed in approximately 20% of all pregnant women. This symptom can appear suddenly without any particular reason, and also be a signal of a developing disease, especially if skin rashes, allergic rashes, hives, etc. appear on the pregnant woman’s body. For an accurate diagnosis of this condition, the expectant mother should contact her doctor, who, after examining the woman, will, if necessary, prescribe additional examination or consultation with a specialized medical specialist.

The causes of itching during pregnancy are very diverse. Among them are:

• Stress, nervous tension, imbalance of the nervous system. In this case, itching usually becomes more active at night, when the pregnant woman is no longer distracted by any external irritants.
• Stretching of the skin due to the constantly growing belly of a pregnant woman (the most harmless reason).
• Multiple pregnancy, which results in a large abdominal circumference.
• Significant weight gain during pregnancy, which causes severe stretch marks.
• Excessive dry skin due to dehydration.
• Changes in the hormonal system of a pregnant woman, which provoke a loss of skin elasticity due to reduced production of collagen and elastin in the body.
• Skin diseases (urticaria, allergic rashes, polymorphic dermatosis, eczema, seborrhea, psoriasis, as well as dermatitis of various etiologies).
• Diseases of internal organs (bile stasis, cholecystitis, liver dysfunction, cholestasis, biliary dyskinesia, etc.).

Cholestasis in pregnant women is provoked by increased production of estrogens. This leads to increased production of bile acids, which cause itching when they enter the skin. In most cases, this disease does not pose a risk to the intrauterine development of the fetus. Dysfunction of the liver, urinary system and gallbladder can be caused by the growing uterus, which, accordingly, presses on these organs. Itching is often a symptom that signals a malfunction of these organs. In extreme cases, hospitalization of the expectant mother may be required.

Burning and itching in the external genitalia and vagina may indicate an inflammatory process or the development of an infectious disease. In this case, there is reason to sound the alarm, since infections of the genitourinary system may harm the fetus or disrupt its normal development. If itching and other unpleasant symptoms occur that indicate the possibility of an infection in the woman's body, it is necessary to undergo an examination by a doctor as soon as possible and begin treatment.

In addition to the fact that vaginal itching can occur due to infection, sexually transmitted diseases, thrush, its cause is often caused by a change in the acid-base balance of the mucous membrane. Most often, the causes of such itching are:

• constant wearing of synthetic underwear, thong panties;
• regular use of daily scented pads;
• overheating or hypothermia of the pelvic organs;
• use of alkaline antibacterial agents intended for intimate hygiene;
• colpitis (inflammation of the vaginal mucosa);
• genital herpes, etc.

Causes of itching during pregnancy may be a consequence of long-term use of antibiotics, development of diabetes in the pregnant woman, iron deficiency in the body of the expectant mother. Among other causes of unpleasant itching in a pregnant woman are insect bites (bedbugs, mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, etc.).

As for the localization of physiological itching during pregnancy, it most often occurs on the stomach, back, soles of the feet. It is very important to distinguish in time the itching associated with hormonal changes in the body, from the itching caused by scabies - a skin disease. That is why, regardless of the cause of the itching, the expectant mother should definitely consult with her doctor.

Symptoms of Itching During Pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can occur suddenly and is directly related to the peculiarities of the skin structure. The fact is that the skin of the human body contains a whole multitude of nerve endings that have a fine sensitivity and react sharply even to any irritant - touch, prick or blow, vibration, chemical substance. As a result, any irritation of the skin often provokes itching, accompanied by a scratching reflex.

Often, itching can be caused by inflammatory or allergic reactions, due to which a biologically active substance called "histamine" is formed in the skin of a pregnant woman, which irritates the nerve endings. In addition, histamine provokes tissue swelling, resulting in redness and swelling of the skin, and also promotes increased blood flow to the affected area. Pathology of the bile ducts and liver causes the deposition of bilirubin and bile acids in the skin, which also results in itching in pregnant women.

Symptoms of itching during pregnancy are associated with the body's protective reaction, its "response" to the irritant and its elimination from the skin surface. When itching occurs, a reflex of scratching of skin areas is observed, which can result in scratches and cracks, severe redness, thinning of the skin and inflammation.

Symptoms of itching in the female genital organs, particularly in the vagina, are local discomfort, a strong desire to scratch the area, an unpleasant burning sensation that bothers the pregnant woman. Almost always, this unpleasant symptom is accompanied by redness and swelling of the skin. Constant scratching of the itching areas leads to abrasions and scratches on the skin, which, in turn, can cause penetration of a secondary infection into the skin with the appearance of tissue swelling, ulcers and cracks.

Signs of itching may indicate the initial stage of a skin disease. For example, with skin irritation and severe itching on the elbows, knees or skin folds, a pregnant woman may experience the development of eczema. This is explained by hormonal, physiological and stress factors that accompany pregnancy.

Symptoms of itching during pregnancy should alert a pregnant woman. Naturally, self-treatment of itching with any medications, ointments and lotions is out of the question. Therefore, the expectant mother is strongly advised to consult a doctor at the first symptoms of a painful condition. Uncontrolled treatment of the same eczema or dermatitis can lead to an unpredictable course of the disease and negatively affect the health of both the expectant mother and her baby.

Infectious skin diseases, the symptoms of which are burning, itching, irresistible and increased desire to scratch, occur in pregnant women against the background of weakened immunity. Candidiasis and thrush are very common diseases in expectant mothers, one of the main symptoms of which is itching in the genital area, discomfort, burning, scabies. Measures taken to treat these diseases should be, first of all, aimed at eliminating the main cause of itching in a pregnant woman.

Itching during pregnancy, regardless of the nature and cause of its manifestation, should be noticed by a pregnant woman in time. But determining its clinical picture and competently prescribing treatment is exclusively the prerogative of a doctor. At home, to temporarily eliminate the unpleasant symptom, you can use warm baths of medicinal herbs: mint, sage, chamomile, oak bark. It is worth taking special care of personal hygiene and excluding such a product as toilet soap, wearing synthetic underwear. In addition, you need to take care of adjusting your diet: exclude salty and spicy dishes, which can only aggravate the symptoms of itching and manifestations of the disease.

Itching of the body during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can occur suddenly, thus taking the expectant mother by surprise, especially if the reasons for this symptom are unknown. Itching is localized both in a certain area of the skin and can cover the entire body of the pregnant woman. Usually, such a symptom indicates problems with the internal organs and the presence of diseases in the woman that existed before the pregnancy.

Itching of the body during pregnancy can be caused by an allergic reaction of the body to a certain irritant. In order to prevent the development of the corresponding painful symptoms, it is necessary to take care of a hypoallergenic lifestyle and diet of the pregnant woman in advance. Often, itching of the body is caused by an endocrine disease (diabetes, thyrotoxicosis, etc.). If such problems exist even before the start of pregnancy, a woman needs to tell her doctor about them at the planning stage of such a responsible and important event in life as bearing and giving birth to a child. This will help to minimize the development of exacerbations and various complications. It is much worse when hormonal imbalances appear during the period of expecting a child - in this case, the expectant mother needs correction and selection of a new regimen, as well as a diet.

Sometimes itching of the body during pregnancy in the last months of bearing a baby occurs due to the development of severe gestosis, often accompanied by such a dangerous disease as hepatitis. Due to the dysfunction of the liver as an organ that filters the body from decay products, there is an accumulation of harmful substances in the tissues of the body, including the skin. As a result of this process, severe itching of the whole body occurs.

Itching of the body during pregnancy is an unpleasant condition, the common causes of which can be:

• stress and neuroses;
• mechanical damage from tight clothing;
• scabies (accompanied by the appearance of grayish pimples and small blisters on the body);
• urticaria (with this disease, a certain place on the body usually itches: for example, the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, the earlobes, etc.);
• impaired kidney function (as a result, the entire surface of the body itches; this occurs due to the retention of nitrogenous waste in the pregnant woman’s body, which comes out with sweat, causing severe itching);
• jaundice (a very common cause of itchy skin; the disease can be detected using a biochemical blood test).

The cause of itchy skin may be lymphogranulomatosis (lymphatic system disorder). Usually, the skin itches in areas where the lymph glands are enlarged. In this case, the expectant mother should consult a hematologist.

The body may itch when tumors occur in the gastrointestinal tract or when there is a malfunction of the thyroid gland.

If a pregnant woman's body itches constantly or very often, she needs to undergo an examination to rule out the development of a serious disease. First, the patient will be examined by a dermatologist to determine the possibility of the presence of parasites in the woman's body that cause itching. If the diagnosis is not confirmed, the expectant mother is prescribed tests to identify kidney disease, liver disease, endocrine system disorders, etc.

Itching during pregnancy can be reduced by choosing a properly selected diet, excluding spicy and salty dishes, spices, strong tea and coffee. In this case, sea treatments, soothing baths based on herbal decoctions (chamomile, oak bark, string, celandine), as well as a warm shower will be useful.

A pregnant woman should try not to scratch her body, as this will cause even more desire to scratch, which can lead to irritation, redness of the skin and even infection. For hygiene procedures, to avoid itching of the body, expectant mothers are recommended to use soft detergents with a normal pH level.

If a pregnant woman detects a symptom such as itching of the body, she should visit a doctor as soon as possible, who will conduct an examination and, based on the laboratory results, determine the main cause of the disease.

Severe itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy does not necessarily indicate serious pathologies in the body of the expectant mother, but this symptom causes quite noticeable discomfort. A pregnant woman is especially worried about severe itching all over the body. If such a symptom occurs, a woman should discuss the problem with the observing gynecologist.

Severe itching during pregnancy has various etiologies, one of the common causes of this symptom is dry and stretched skin due to the growing belly. Most often, severe itching due to rapid weight gain of a pregnant woman occurs in the second half of the period of bearing a fetus, when its intensive intrauterine development and growth occurs. Such a symptom as severe, unbearable itching is a kind of signal that the weight gain of a pregnant woman is too fast, thereby causing discomfort for the female body. This is a harmless symptom, the expectant mother just needs to take care of preventing stretch marks and apply specially designed care products to areas of the skin that will moisturize the skin and maintain its elasticity.

The appearance of severe itching of the skin of the body may indicate the presence of a skin disease: eczema, scabies, urticaria; idiopathic itching often appears, which causes a strong reflex to scratch the skin of the arms, legs, and various parts of the body. Scratches, scratches, redness and irritation of the skin are observed on the itchy areas of the skin. Itching of the skin during pregnancy can occur in attacks or be permanent.

As a rule, itching is more intense in the evening, and, unfortunately, sometimes becomes unbearable, thereby causing severe discomfort to the expectant mother. Itching is often combined with other symptoms: rash, redness, rashes in the form of small blisters and pimples, severe peeling of the skin. In such cases, there is reason to talk about problems with the liver. This disorder can be diagnosed by taking a urine test. Women who have high cholesterol levels and chronic genitourinary diseases are most often susceptible to liver dysfunction.

Severe itching during pregnancy can be caused by an allergy. If other causes of the symptom development are not revealed during the examination of the pregnant woman, there is reason to think that the itching is caused by an allergen. Which one exactly is another question that will be decided by an allergist by conducting the necessary tests and analyses.

Itching during pregnancy can also be caused by excessive sweating, which is especially typical for the third trimester. Summer weather, an active lifestyle of the expectant mother, and improperly selected clothing are factors that lead to increased sweating, which causes skin irritation that causes severe itching. The best way to combat this unpleasant sensation is to take a regular shower, as well as frequently change underwear and choose clothes made of natural fabrics that allow air to pass through well and have sufficient hygroscopicity.

Only a competent dermatologist can confirm the presence of any skin infection that causes severe itching during pregnancy and prescribe appropriate treatment for the disease. For an accurate diagnosis, it may be necessary to conduct special laboratory tests of skin samples.

Itchy skin during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy is not very common, but it is also not a rare symptom. Most often, itching in pregnant women develops in the second half of bearing a baby, usually starting from the 5th-6th month. Itching is especially strong at night, when the woman is no longer affected by external irritants that distract a little from unpleasant sensations during the day.

Skin itching during pregnancy has various causes. These can be dermatological diseases, as well as malfunctions of the liver, kidneys, and digestive system of the body. Often, an increased level of estrogen in the blood of the expectant mother leads to cholestasis - stagnation of bile in the liver. As a result, there is an excessive secretion of bile acids, which, getting into the skin, provoke severe itching. During the period of bearing a child, functional processes in the liver also change: ALT and bilirubin levels increase. Such disorders in the body lead to such a symptom as skin itching. But the expectant mother must definitely take care of herself. In addition to visiting a doctor to determine the causes of skin itching, a woman needs to start using softening and moisturizing hygiene products that prevent overdrying of the skin. Rubbing particularly itchy areas with oil or neutral body milk will greatly alleviate the condition of a pregnant woman. Of the medications for itchy skin, cholestyramine, activated charcoal, and various talkers that cleanse the intestines and remove harmful toxins from the body are usually prescribed.

It is recommended to support the liver with hepatoprotectors in the form of such drugs as Essentiale, Karsil, etc. No-shpa promotes the outflow of bile well. Of course, any medicine, even one made on a plant basis, should be used only after consultation with a doctor. It is he who will prescribe an examination that will reveal the causes of skin itching in a pregnant woman.

Itchy skin during pregnancy, although quite rare, can be caused by intolerance to some food product. It can be an exotic fruit or a seafood dish that the woman has not eaten before. In this case, it is better not to experiment with food.

One of the most common causes of itchy skin in pregnant women is hormonal changes, which often result in excessive dryness and sensitivity of the skin. In addition to natural causes of itchy skin during pregnancy, physiological causes are possible, provoked by a malfunction of internal organs or sensitivity to external irritants: allergies and bile stasis in the liver. With an allergic reaction of the body, in addition to itching, the skin may have swelling and be covered with a small rash. In the second case, with liver dysfunction, pregnant women often experience yellowing of the skin.

Itching during pregnancy, no matter what it is - minor, severe, constant or systematic - must be diagnosed by an experienced medical specialist. Especially dangerous in combination with this symptom is the deterioration of the general condition of the pregnant woman.

Itching in the perineum during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy is a very painful, unpleasant sensation, which is accompanied by a constant desire to scratch the skin or mucous membranes. Sensations of this kind in pregnant women arise for a number of reasons and, accordingly, require timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Often, expectant mothers complain of itching in the perineum. What can cause this symptom? First of all, it should be noted that during pregnancy, a woman's immune system begins to work in a completely different way. Hormonal fluctuations negatively affect the body's defenses and reduce immunity. This concerns changes in the acid-base balance in the vagina of a pregnant woman, which provokes increased reproduction of "harmful" groups of microorganisms, which often cause the development of various gynecological diseases. One of the main symptoms of such ailments is itching in the perineum and genitals of a woman.

Itching in the perineum during pregnancy has two main common causes – the development of thrush (candidiasis) and bacterial vaginosis. Thrush during pregnancy often causes itching in the perineum, labia and vagina. This disease is caused by the fungal microorganism Candida, is accompanied by white discharge of a “curdled” type and has a sour smell. If thrush is not treated, then during childbirth the child may well become infected with a fungal infection, passing through the infected birth canal. A smear on the vaginal flora will help to determine thrush – this procedure is included in the program of mandatory tests and examinations carried out regularly during pregnancy.

When treating candidiasis in pregnant women, it is important to abstain from sexual activity and also to review the diet, excluding sweets, spicy dishes, coffee and various seasonings. The expectant mother should follow all the doctor's instructions to get rid of this disease as soon as possible.

Bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy is a disorder that is accompanied by the replacement of "useful" lactobacilli in the vagina with "harmful" microorganisms of a non-fungal nature. Bacterial vaginosis can cause severe itching in the perineum, as well as cloudy, viscous vaginal discharge of a yellowish color. However, there are cases when vaginosis in women is practically asymptomatic, and its presence is determined only by taking a smear test for vaginal flora. This disease is dangerous because its advanced form can cause premature labor in a pregnant woman.

Itching in the perineum during pregnancy may manifest as a consequence of the development of diabetes. Associated symptoms include frequent urination, increased sugar in the urine and blood, and intense thirst. The appearance of itching in this case is explained by the fact that the remains of urine, which have a high glucose content, after urination provoke irritation of the genitals, causing itching in the perineum, and burning. Treatment of the disease should be competent and take into account all possible risks for the mother and child.

Other causes of perineal itching in pregnant women may be tight clothing, wearing underwear made of synthetic fabrics, and poor personal hygiene. Synthetic fabric fibers, when in contact with the skin, cause it to overheat, which results in irritation and redness of the skin in the perineum. Pregnant women should be especially careful when choosing cosmetics, intimate washing gels, which can often contain harmful components and fragrances. Such products can provoke allergic reactions in pregnant women, which manifest themselves in the form of itching, rashes, and redness of the skin. In any case, if such a symptom as perineal itching occurs during pregnancy, the expectant mother should consult her doctor.

Itchy Legs During Pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy is often localized in a certain place - on the skin of the abdomen, arms, legs, perineum, etc. What causes this unpleasant symptom? The answer to this question is mainly related to hormonal changes in the body of a pregnant woman, which provoke a decrease in immunity and the development of symptoms of various diseases, as well as an exacerbation of chronic ailments.

Itchy legs during pregnancy is a sure sign that the expectant mother has previously suffered from skin diseases. Against the background of a weakened immune system during pregnancy, skin diseases can reappear. Causes of itchy legs can be allergies, scabies, fungal infections. Discomfort and unpleasant sensations in the area of the feet and between the toes of a pregnant woman can signal the development of fungal skin diseases, as well as the appearance of urticaria, vascular diseases, in particular, varicose veins.

If the itching of the skin of the legs of a pregnant woman is of a pronounced nature, it may indicate dermatophytosis - a fungal infection of the feet. Other signs of mycosis (fungal infection of the feet) can be peeling, redness and thickening of the skin, as well as its cracking in the area between the toes of a pregnant woman.

Mycosis is often combined with onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the toenails. With this disease, the nails begin to crumble, become cloudy, loose and thicken.

Itching of the legs during pregnancy may indicate varicose veins, the signs of which are also frequent swelling, a feeling of heaviness in the legs. In the later stages of this disease, you can visually see an enlarged venous network on the legs. If the legs itch severely, you must consult a doctor who, depending on the severity of the pregnant woman's condition, will prescribe effective medications.

Severe itching of the legs, in particular the shins, can occur as a result of allergic reactions, excessive dryness of the skin, parasitic infections caused by fungi or parasites, such as mites. Initially, itching occurs in a certain place - in the areas between the toes, feet, between the legs, on the shins, but later an increase in the affected area of the skin of the legs may be observed, especially if treatment is delayed.

Itching during pregnancy that occurs on the legs requires mandatory diagnostics and timely treatment depending on the cause that caused this symptom. Thus, in case of fungal infection of the legs, the expectant mother is prescribed antifungal drugs that have a local effect. Folk methods of treatment with lotions and baths from decoctions of medicinal herbs are also widely practiced. The expectant mother will have to give up uncomfortable shoes, as well as foot deodorants.

In case of allergic skin lesions of the legs of a pregnant woman, antihistamines Suprastin, Tavegil, Loratidine, Zyrtec are mainly used. Taking medications is prescribed strictly on the recommendation of a dermatologist, who will assess all possible risks to the fetus.

To relieve itchy legs during pregnancy, you can use simple recommendations. Taking a shower several times during the day will help reduce itching. After such a water procedure, it is recommended to treat the itchy areas with cosmetic oil or milk. It is necessary to ensure that such products do not contain alcohol, which can provoke even greater dryness of the skin.

Leg itching during pregnancy is often treated with special lotions designed to relieve itching and skin irritation. They can be purchased at pharmacies with a doctor's prescription. Taking vitamin E and drinking plenty of fluids - at least 2.5 liters per day - will help alleviate the condition. However, the expectant mother should remember that self-medication can be dangerous, so her first task is to consult a doctor.

Clitoral itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy often causes fatigue and irritability in women due to the constant need to scratch the itchy area of skin. This symptom can occur for a number of reasons, one of which is a genitourinary infection. The development of a particular disease in a pregnant woman most often occurs against the background of weakened immunity.

Itching of the clitoris during pregnancy is one of the most unpleasant symptoms indicating the presence of a genitourinary infection or the development of bacterial vaginosis in a pregnant woman. In addition to itching, a burning sensation in the clitoris may also be observed. If such symptoms are detected, the expectant mother should immediately consult a doctor, since itching combined with a strong burning sensation of the clitoris may be a sign of the presence of a sexually transmitted disease in the woman's body. This may be trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, ureaplasmosis, etc. For an accurate diagnosis, the doctor prescribes a thorough examination for the pregnant woman, which includes taking tests, in particular, to examine a smear for vaginal microflora and identify the causes of the inflammatory process. Naturally, you cannot postpone a visit to the doctor in case of itching in the genital area, since this is risky for the fetus. Any infection can provoke a miscarriage, abnormal formation of the fetus, and also lead to premature birth.

A burning sensation in the clitoris may indicate the development of bacterial vaginosis, a gynecological disease that is also accompanied by vaginal discharge with a "rotten fish" smell. Clitoral itching with gonorrhea is often accompanied by frequent urges to go to the toilet and acute pain during urination. This dangerous disease is combined with gonorrheal urethritis - purulent vaginal discharge. In this case, itching and burning in the area of the external genitalia and clitoris intensify. The inflammatory process most often affects almost all parts of the female genitourinary system and is very dangerous during pregnancy.

Itching of the clitoris during pregnancy can occur with the development of trichomoniasis in combination with such unpleasant symptoms as foamy vaginal discharge of a yellow-green color with a strong odor, painful sensations during sexual intercourse and urination.

With mycoplasmosis, a pregnant woman experiences pain in the lower abdomen, moderate burning and itching when urinating. Often, the disease causes inflammation of the uterus and appendages. Ureoplasmosis is accompanied by itching in the clitoris and genitals, as well as scanty transparent discharge from the vagina, pain when urinating. Burning in the clitoris, especially when urinating, can signal chlamydia. The most "severe" diagnosis, the symptom of which is itching in the clitoris area, is the early development of cancer of the genitals.

During pregnancy, local skin itching, including in the clitoris area, may be observed as a manifestation of toxicosis. In any case, a pregnant woman needs to remember that this is only a symptom indicating a health problem. The main task of the doctor is to establish the cause of the itching by means of a thorough comprehensive examination of the pregnant woman.

Itchy breasts during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can occur in any part of the body, but most often expectant mothers are bothered by itching of the abdomen and chest, since these are the parts of the body that undergo strong changes in the process of hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy.

Breast itching during pregnancy is a natural process that is associated with the fact that significant changes occur in the mammary glands during pregnancy: firstly, they increase in size and swell, and secondly, the ducts of the mammary glands gradually produce mother's milk (colostrum). It is this internal influx of fluid in the mammary glands that a pregnant woman feels as itching.

When breasts increase during pregnancy, the skin stretches accordingly. This process can cause a slight feeling of discomfort in a pregnant woman, including itching. It is important to note that in this case, it is not recommended to scratch the itchy areas, since the skin of the breast is very thin, and scratching can cause irritation, redness, stretch marks. It should be taken into account that the skin of a woman carrying a child generally becomes much more sensitive. This factor provokes allergic reactions to cosmetics, synthetic clothing, washing powder, etc. To alleviate the condition with severe itching of the chest and prevent striae (stretch marks), a pregnant woman needs to use creams and ointments with a moisturizing effect, specially created against stretch marks.

Breast itching during pregnancy can be caused by another factor - a tight bra. The compressed skin often itches and scratches. Due to the fact that the mammary glands of a pregnant woman gradually increase in size, they, accordingly, need new underwear - a bra of a larger size. A regular change of underwear will eliminate such an unpleasant symptom as breast itching.

To relieve itching of the mammary glands during pregnancy, you can use some recommendations:

• When taking a shower, you should use a minimum amount of detergents, and afterward, moisturize the skin of your breasts exclusively with natural products with a natural pH level.
• Baths with herbal infusions of chamomile, coltsfoot, yarrow and other medicinal plants added to the water will be beneficial.
• A pregnant woman should avoid heat, overheating in the sun, stuffy rooms, which result in excessive sweating, which can cause itching.
• Expectant mothers should avoid getting deodorants on their breasts, which can also cause dryness.
• For washing clothes, it is recommended to use neutral washing powder, preferably baby powder.

Itching during pregnancy, which greatly disturbs the expectant mother, should be examined by a doctor. Perhaps the body needs vitamins, or this is an allergy to some irritant. In any case, it is always best to consult an experienced medical specialist.

Diagnosis of itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy requires an accurate diagnosis of the cause that caused this symptom. If itching of any etiology occurs, the expectant mother should consult a doctor. For example, if a pregnant woman has itching in the perineum or genital area, she should tell her obstetrician-gynecologist about this problem, who will examine her and conduct the necessary diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the itching:

Diagnosis of itching during pregnancy, depending on the location of this symptom and the general well-being of the expectant mother, includes the following medical tests and analyses to make an accurate diagnosis:

• clinical examination of a pregnant woman to identify painful spots, symptoms of jaundice, the presence of parasites, rashes, areas of altered skin sensitivity, etc.;
• measuring the body temperature of the pregnant woman (hyperthermia indicates the presence of an infection, which often causes itching);
• gynecological examination of the perineum and genitals, which makes it possible to determine the degree of development of the symptom, identify redness of the labia, swelling, the presence of irritation of the mucous membrane, etc.;
• general and biochemical blood tests (in particular, analysis of the level of thyroid hormones, liver enzymes, glucose, urea, nitrogen and zinc, toxic metals);
• bacterioscopic examination (smear of vaginal discharge for microflora);
• urine and stool analysis (to detect intestinal parasites);
• Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity to determine the absence of liver and gallbladder diseases.

If necessary, the gynecologist can prescribe additional consultations with a urologist, endocrinologist, therapist, or psychiatrist. If the itching in a pregnant woman is of an allergic nature and is accompanied by skin rashes in the form of urticaria, the doctor must accurately diagnose the allergy in order to eliminate the main irritant (allergen) - this can be a certain product, plant pollen, pet hair, etc. To diagnose an allergy, skin tests, blood tests for allergens, immunological tests, etc. are carried out.

In most cases, itching diagnostics is the prerogative of a dermatologist, since establishing a diagnosis is a very difficult matter, especially in the case of pregnancy. Before contacting a dermatologist, it is important for the expectant mother not to take measures for self-medication, i.e. it is forbidden to lubricate the affected areas of the skin, treat them with medical products, since this can greatly complicate the diagnosis.

Itching during pregnancy requires laboratory tests aimed at detecting an increase in the serum level of bile acids, an increase in the content of bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, ALT, etc. This will help prevent liver disease, in particular, jaundice, which is accompanied by severe itching and quite often has complications in the form of premature birth, postpartum hemorrhage, or the birth of a baby with low birth weight.

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Treating Itching During Pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy does not cause such discomfort as, for example, pain, but a pregnant woman should not tolerate it. Itching, as well as pain, is a symptom of some organic disorders or negative reactions of the body, so at the first sign of it, the expectant mother is recommended to visit her doctor.

Treatment of itching during pregnancy is determined depending on the main cause of its occurrence. In case of mild itching, first of all, the woman is recommended to change clothes: the pregnant woman's underwear should be made of natural fabrics, preferably cotton. It is necessary to limit the use of perfumes, cosmetics and household chemicals (perfumes, creams, deodorants, soaps and shampoos containing chemicals and fragrances). Expectant mothers should use hypoallergenic products, take a cool shower more often without using soap and gels, and after water procedures, moisturize the skin with a neutral cream or milk. Since the skin of a woman "in position" becomes more sensitive, it must be protected from heat, wind and direct sunlight.

It is important for a pregnant woman to take into account one rule: itchy areas on the body should not be scratched! This will provoke increased itching, scratches, redness, irritation of already vulnerable skin. Keeping the body clean, light, comfortable clothing, optimal room temperature are factors that are very important for eliminating itching during pregnancy.

If the cause of itchy skin during pregnancy is more serious and is caused by problems with the internal organs, in particular the liver, the treatment of the expectant mother should be strictly under the supervision of the attending physician. Only tests and a medical examination will help to find out the causes of itching and accurately diagnose the disease. In no case should you self-medicate, since many medications are contraindicated during pregnancy and can cause irreversible consequences for the fetus and harm the health of the expectant mother. Taking any medication should only be started after consulting an experienced doctor and exclusively on his recommendations.

Treatment of itching during pregnancy caused by liver dysfunction (biliary dyskinesia, cholestasis, cholecystitis) involves taking adsorbents (primarily activated carbon, as well as its more complex analogues), as well as hepatoprotectors (drugs that help restore liver function) - No-shpa, Essentiale Forte, Karsil. In this case, it is important to adjust the pregnant woman's diet: it is necessary to remove from the diet dishes made from products that are "heavy" for the liver (fried, spicy, fatty dishes, smoked foods). In case of allergies, the pregnant woman's diet is also adjusted and antihistamines are prescribed. However, most antihistamines can only be used from the middle of pregnancy in the absence of alternative treatment.

If itching during pregnancy is caused by genitourinary infections, treatment of the pregnant woman usually consists of using medicinal suppositories, which have a local action mechanism and allow to avoid the effect of the drug on the body as a whole. The genitals should be washed 2-3 times a day, and you can use decoctions of medicinal plants: chamomile, celandine, oak bark, St. John's wort, mint. You should refuse toilet soap, and in case of perineal itching, do sitz baths in a decoction of sage or chamomile.

Baths with a decoction of succession or oatmeal, as well as birch or coniferous branches, help in the treatment of skin itching during pregnancy. In this case, about a kilogram of branches should be boiled and boiled for 15 minutes, after which the finished decoction should be filtered and diluted in a lukewarm bath.

To prepare a herbal decoction for use as a poultice, pour 2-3 tablespoons of raw materials (chamomile, string, St. John's wort) with 0.5 liters of boiling water, let it brew for several hours, then strain and make poultices for itchy areas of the skin.

Itching during pregnancy requires timely elimination. To do this, you need to visit a doctor in time, undergo diagnostics and identify the causes of this symptom. Every expectant mother should not neglect these recommendations, because the life of the baby depends only on her and her actions.

Preventing Itching During Pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can be prevented by following the advice and recommendations of health professionals.

Prevention of itching during pregnancy concerns the use of measures that are primarily aimed at carefully observing the hygiene of the pregnant woman and optimizing her lifestyle. The following preventive recommendations can be noted, which will help expectant mothers prevent or eliminate itching that occurs during pregnancy.

• Always maintain personal hygiene, take showers or warm baths more often without using scented detergents.
• Keep the perineal area dry and clean.
• Give up cosmetics and perfumes.
• For washing clothes, use a phosphate-free neutral detergent.
• Use clothing made exclusively from natural, hygroscopic fabrics that do not restrict movement.
• Use moisturizers (creams, lotions, gels, oils) with a neutral pH level for sensitive skin.
• Do not leave the house in extreme heat, avoid stuffy rooms, wind, and the scorching sun.
• Drink enough water to maintain optimal skin balance.
• Follow an individually tailored, balanced diet.
• Do not self-medicate; if itching occurs, be sure to visit a medical facility and consult a doctor.

Itching during pregnancy is less likely to occur if a woman undergoes a medical examination and tests for hidden infections before planning a pregnancy. It is also important to be examined by specialized medical specialists to identify possible chronic diseases and eliminate them before conception.