Itching in the Third Trimester: What to Know

As the abdomen and breasts expand, stretched or dry skin can itch and may show fine lines or a rash. New soaps, fabrics, medicines, or heat can trigger contact dermatitis, while eczema or hives may flare during pregnancy. Itching without an obvious rash, itch that is strongest on the palms or soles, or itch that is worse at night deserves medical review because pregnancy-related liver or other conditions can present this way. Do not try to diagnose the cause from the rash alone; your clinician may ask about urine colour, bowel changes, abdominal symptoms, and movement of the baby.

Use lukewarm rather than hot water, a gentle fragrance-free cleanser, and a plain moisturiser after washing. Wear loose cotton clothing, keep the room cool, and use a cool compress instead of vigorous scratching. Avoid starting oral medicines, herbal products, or medicated creams without checking their pregnancy suitability. Record where the itching occurs, whether a rash is visible, when it worsens, and any new product or medicine. Keep scheduled maternity appointments and contact the team for advice about any new widespread symptom.

Contact your maternity team promptly for itch on the palms or soles, itch without a rash, rapidly spreading itch, or symptoms that disturb sleep. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or a noticeable reduction in fetal movement. A clinician may arrange examination and blood tests to check causes that affect pregnancy care.

Ask what pattern you should report, whether you need liver or other blood tests, and which moisturisers or medicines are appropriate during pregnancy. Ask how to monitor fetal movement and whom to call outside clinic hours.