Itchy skin at 38 weeks pregnant: action and warning signs

A dry, tight sensation over the bump may be related to stretching, particularly when there is only mild flaking. A sharply outlined rash after a new soap, cream, detergent, or garment can fit contact dermatitis. Psoriasis presents with defined scaly plaques, and a skin yeast infection commonly presents with a sore, itchy rash in warm folds rather than isolated itching everywhere.

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy often causes itching without an initial visible rash and may involve the hands and feet. It cannot be identified by appearance alone. Scratched skin can later develop lines, crusts, or bleeding, so tell the clinician what you noticed before scratching began.

Phone your maternity triage service promptly for unexplained, recurring, or strong itching, even when you otherwise feel well. Describe the exact areas involved, whether night makes it worse, and whether urine, stools, or skin colour have changed. Follow their advice about examination and blood testing.

While arranging advice, cool compresses, loose natural-fibre clothing, an unperfumed moisturiser, and lukewarm rather than hot water may calm the skin. Do not apply a prescription-strength cream borrowed from someone else. Check all oral medicines, medicated lotions, and complementary products with a maternity-aware clinician or pharmacist.

A change or reduction in your baby's usual movement pattern requires urgent maternity assessment. The same applies to severe palm or sole itching, jaundice, dark urine, or unusually pale stools. Call emergency services for throat tightness, difficulty breathing, swelling around the mouth, fainting, or a blistering or peeling rash. Fever with rapidly spreading redness or significant skin pain needs prompt care.

Ask whether bile-acid and liver-function testing is indicated, when persistent symptoms should be reassessed, and which treatments are compatible with your pregnancy care. Request clear instructions about monitoring fetal movement and the number to call if anything changes.