What is the reason for whole-body itching during pregnancy?

Abdominal stretching, heat, sweat, and a changed skin barrier can cause itch. A rash may fit Asteatotic Eczema, Atopic Dermatitis, Contact Dermatitis, Hives, or another inflammatory condition; yeast can affect warm skin folds. Itching that is intense on the palms or soles, especially without a visible rash, needs prompt contact with the maternity team because pregnancy-related bile-flow problems can present this way. This symptom alone does not identify the cause, and examination plus appropriate testing may be needed.

Apply a plain fragrance-free moisturiser, take lukewarm showers, use gentle cleanser only where needed, and wear loose cotton clothing. Keep the room cool and avoid new scented products. Before taking an antihistamine, steroid cream, herbal product, or other medicine, check with the clinician managing your pregnancy. Keep a record of rash, itch location, sleep disruption, urine or stool changes, and when symptoms began.

Contact your maternity team promptly for intense itch without a rash, palm or sole itching, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, severe abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movement. Seek emergency help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, faintness, or a rapidly spreading allergic reaction. A painful, warm, oozing rash also needs assessment.

Ask whether you need liver or other blood tests, which treatments are safe at your stage of pregnancy, and how quickly results should be reviewed. Tell the clinician about every medicine and supplement you use.