What should you know about impetigo when pregnant?

Impetigo is a bacterial infection of the outer skin. It may cause oozing sores, blisters, or yellow-brown crusts, often where the skin has been scratched or irritated. Pregnancy does not make every rash impetigo, and some pregnancy-related or eczema rashes can look similar. Tell the clinician how far the rash has spread, whether you have fever, and which medicines, creams, or supplements you use. Protecting the skin also protects household contacts from avoidable exposure.

Arrange advice rather than starting leftover medicine. Until reviewed, wash hands after touching the area, keep sores gently clean and covered, avoid scratching, and do not share towels, clothes, bedding, or cosmetics. Ask specifically about any topical or oral Antibiotics For Skin Infection, because medicine choice depends on the infection and pregnancy history. A prescribed Topical Antibiotic Therapy may be suitable for limited sores when the clinician recommends it.

Contact your maternity or primary-care team promptly if sores are spreading, painful, recurrent, or accompanied by fever. Seek urgent care for rapidly increasing redness or swelling, severe tenderness, pus, feeling very unwell, or involvement near the eyes. Mention reduced immunity or other medical conditions when arranging review.

Could this be impetigo or a pregnancy-related rash? Which treatment is appropriate at my stage of pregnancy? How should I cover the sores, and what precautions should my household take?