Itching everywhere during pregnancy

Pregnancy can increase dryness and sensitivity, while stretching skin may itch around the abdomen, breasts, or limbs. Eczema, contact reactions, hives, yeast infection, psoriasis, and scabies can also affect several areas, often with clues such as redness, scaling, welts, or affected household contacts. A liver-related pregnancy condition may cause intense itching without a primary rash, sometimes strongest on the palms and soles. The distribution and accompanying symptoms help a clinician choose the right assessment.

Use fragrance-free moisturiser regularly, bathe in lukewarm water, and avoid fragranced soaps, rough fabrics, and overheating. Pat skin dry and apply moisturiser while it is still slightly damp. Keep nails short and use a cool cloth instead of vigorous scratching. Write down when the itching started, where it is worst, whether it wakes you, and any new medicines or products. Ask your maternity clinician before taking antihistamines or applying medicated treatments.

Report widespread, new, severe, or night-time itching to your maternity team, especially when there is little or no rash or the palms and soles are involved. Seek urgent advice for yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, upper abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movement. Emergency care is needed for breathing difficulty or sudden swelling of the lips or face.

What features suggest a skin condition versus a pregnancy-related liver problem? Do I need tests or follow-up monitoring? Which products are suitable, and what symptoms should make me contact the maternity unit without delay?