What should you know about fungal skin infection in pregnancy?

Ringworm can cause an itchy, scaly, expanding patch, while other pregnancy-related skin changes, eczema, contact dermatitis, or irritation may look similar. A clinician can examine the skin and decide whether testing is useful. The location, extent, broken skin, and any other medicines you use all affect the choice of treatment.

Pregnancy is not a reason to ignore a persistent rash. It is a reason to check medicines before applying or swallowing them, including products bought without a prescription.

Contact your obstetric or dermatology team for a treatment recommendation, and mention your stage of pregnancy, allergies, and all medicines or supplements. Keep the area clean and dry, wear loose breathable clothing, change damp garments, and avoid sharing towels or clothing. Use a topical antifungal only as directed. Do not start oral antifungal treatment or combine products on your own; your clinician can decide when a medicine taken by mouth is appropriate.

Seek prompt medical advice if the rash is spreading, painful, hot, swollen, draining, or associated with fever. Arrange review if it affects the scalp, face, nails, or a large area, or if treatment causes burning or worsening redness. Contact your maternity team urgently for any pregnancy concern occurring alongside feeling acutely unwell.

How can we confirm the diagnosis? Is a topical antifungal suitable for this location? Do I need oral treatment, and why? How long should treatment continue? Which ingredients should I avoid, and should household contacts be checked?