What should you know about erythema nodosum in pregnancy?

Pregnancy changes immune activity and affects which medicines are appropriate, so new tender nodules should not be self-diagnosed. Erythema nodosum often appears as warm, painful lumps over the shins, but a clinician may also consider infection, a medicine reaction, a clot, or another inflammatory condition. Tell the team when the lumps began, whether one leg is much more swollen, and whether you have fever, cough, joint pain, bowel symptoms, or reduced movement.

Contact your maternity team or clinician for an examination and take a complete list of medicines, vitamins, and supplements. Rest with the legs supported when comfortable, avoid squeezing the nodules, and use a cool cloth if it soothes you. Do not start, stop, or borrow medication during pregnancy without advice. If treatment is needed, the team will weigh symptom control against pregnancy considerations; oral corticosteroid treatment may be discussed in selected situations: [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/).

Seek urgent assessment for sudden one-sided leg swelling, chest pain, breathing difficulty, coughing blood, faintness, severe headache, or a high fever. Contact your maternity team promptly if you feel unwell, cannot drink, or notice a rapid change in the skin or pain.

Could this be erythema nodosum or a clot? Which pain-relief options are suitable at my stage of pregnancy? Do I need tests for infection or inflammation? Should my maternity team and dermatologist coordinate follow-up?