Heat rash while pregnant: what to know

Pregnancy may increase warmth and sweating, while a growing abdomen can create areas where moisture and friction collect. Heat rash may appear as itchy or prickly bumps in folds or under clothing. It is described in the [Heat Rash](/conditions/heat-rash/) guide. Pregnancy itching can have other causes, so do not assume every rash is heat rash; compare the appearance with [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) and [Skin Redness](/symptoms/skin-redness/).

Choose loose breathable clothing, keep the room cool, change damp garments, and rinse with cool or lukewarm water. Pat folds dry and use a clean cool compress for short periods. Avoid fragranced products, harsh scrubbing, and heavy occlusive creams that may trap sweat. Ask your maternity or dermatology clinician before using medicines; even [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) or [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) should match the location and diagnosis.

Contact your maternity team or clinician for severe or widespread itching, a rash on the palms or soles, a rash that starts in the abdomen and spreads, or symptoms that disturb sleep. Also seek advice for pain, warmth, pus, crusting, fever, or no improvement after cooling. Emergency care is needed for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, faintness, or a rapidly spreading rash.

Ask whether the pattern fits heat rash or a pregnancy-related condition, which products and medicines are suitable at your stage of pregnancy, and how to prevent overheating.