Body itching during third trimester: what to know

As pregnancy advances, the abdomen may feel tight and dry, and heat or sweating can make itching more noticeable. A rash with redness, scale, or welts may be caused by irritation, Atopic Dermatitis, Contact Dermatitis, or Hives. Scabies is another possibility when itching is prominent at night and close contacts are also affected.

Itch concentrated on the palms or soles, or widespread itch with no obvious rash, has a different significance in pregnancy. Tell your maternity team promptly so they can decide whether examination and blood tests are needed.

Keep showers brief and lukewarm, use a non-perfumed cleanser, and smooth on a bland moisturiser after drying gently. Choose light clothing, avoid rough fabrics, and use a cool compress when the urge to scratch rises. Pat the skin dry instead of rubbing it.

Check any cream, tablet, or natural remedy with your pregnancy clinician before use. A clinician can match treatment to the rash and your pregnancy history; do not assume a product is suitable because it is sold without a prescription.

Call your maternity service promptly for severe or worsening itch, itch that disrupts sleep, itch without a rash, or symptoms on the palms or soles. Seek urgent help for yellow eyes or skin, swelling of the lips or face, breathing difficulty, blistering, fever, painful skin, or reduced fetal movement. Mention any new medicine or product that preceded the symptoms.

Ask whether the distribution suggests a skin disorder or pregnancy-specific cause, whether testing is appropriate, and which treatment can be used now. Describe the rash in detail, including its colour, texture, spread, night-time pattern, and effect on sleep.