What should you know about itchy palms and pregnancy?

Pregnancy can make skin feel drier or more sensitive, and soaps, detergents, gloves, or heat can trigger irritation. A visible rash with blisters may fit [Dyshidrotic Eczema](/conditions/dyshidrotic-eczema/), while redness after a new product may fit [Contact Dermatitis](/conditions/contact-dermatitis/). Peeling on the feet can occur with [Athlete's Foot](/conditions/athletes-foot/), which is separate from pregnancy itself.

Some pregnancy-related causes of widespread itch may occur with little or no rash and need maternity assessment. Do not assume that palm itching is simply dry skin if it is intense, spreading, or associated with other symptoms.

Use fragrance-free cleanser, lukewarm water, and a plain moisturiser on intact skin. Keep the room and bedding comfortably cool, wear breathable shoes, and avoid scratching. Before using a medicated cream, ask your obstetric or medical clinician whether it is suitable in pregnancy; treatment such as [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) should follow an appropriate assessment.

Contact your maternity team promptly for new intense itching without a clear rash, itching that is worse at night, or itch involving the palms and soles. Seek urgent help for jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, severe abdominal pain, reduced fetal movement, facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or signs of skin infection such as pus and fever.

Ask whether you need pregnancy blood tests, which moisturisers or medicines are suitable, and whether the baby needs monitoring. Tell them when the itch began, whether a rash is present, where else it occurs, how it affects sleep, and every product or medicine you use.