Itchy skin in the third trimester: when to seek advice

The abdomen may itch as skin stretches, and heat, sweat, dry skin, or a new detergent can cause irritation. Contact Dermatitis, Atopic Dermatitis, Hives, or Psoriasis may produce visible redness, bumps, scale, or raised patches. A late-pregnancy rash can also begin on the abdomen and spread, so note whether the skin is visibly changed.

Itching that is strongest at night, affects the palms or soles, or occurs without much of a rash deserves prompt contact with the maternity team. It is a symptom to assess, not a diagnosis to make at home.

Keep the room and skin cool, wear loose cotton clothing, and use a cool compress for short periods. Wash with lukewarm water and a gentle fragrance-free cleanser, then moisturise intact skin. Avoid scratching, hot baths, and unreviewed medicines or herbal products. Write down the timing, sites, sleep impact, rash appearance, and any change in fetal movement before calling.

Call the maternity team promptly for severe or worsening itching, palm or sole involvement, night symptoms, itching without a clear rash, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, or reduced fetal movement. Seek urgent help for breathing problems, facial swelling, blistering, fever, or rapidly spreading redness. Painful, warm, or oozing skin may indicate infection.

Does my pattern need pregnancy-related testing? Could a visible rash be Contact Dermatitis or eczema? Which treatments are suitable at this stage? How should I monitor fetal movement and which symptoms require immediate help?