Itchy rash in pregnancy: third-trimester guidance

Pregnancy can make skin more sensitive, dry, and prone to heat or friction. A rash may also follow a new soap, detergent, cream, medicine, or fabric. Red, scaly patches can fit conditions such as Atopic Dermatitis or Contact Dermatitis. Moisture in skin folds may support Intertrigo, while ring-shaped scaling may suggest Ringworm. A pregnancy-related eruption is also possible, and severe itching without much visible rash needs medical attention because the cause may not be limited to the skin.

Use a fragrance-free moisturiser, short lukewarm showers, loose breathable clothing, and a cool compress. Pat skin dry instead of rubbing, and keep a note of when the itch began, where it started, and whether a product or medicine changed beforehand. Do not start oral or topical treatment without checking its suitability in pregnancy; your clinician can choose an option and strength appropriate for you.

Contact your maternity team promptly for intense itching, itching on the palms or soles, night-time worsening, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, or reduced fetal movement. Seek urgent help for breathing trouble, facial or lip swelling, blistering, skin peeling, fever, or a rapidly spreading painful rash.

Ask whether the distribution and appearance fit a pregnancy-related eruption, whether blood tests are needed for general health, and which cleanser, moisturiser, or medicine is suitable at your stage of pregnancy.