Rash During Pregnancy: Causes, Treatments & When to See a Doctor
28 Feb 2025
Noticed an itchy rash during pregnancy? You’re not alone! Skin changes are common due to hormonal shifts, increased blood flow, and a growing belly. While most rashes are harmless, some may require medical attention. Let’s explore common pregnancy rashes, safe treatments, and when to call your doctor.
When it happens: Usually in the third trimester.
Is it dangerous? No, but it can be very itchy and uncomfortable.
How to treat it:
When it happens: Anytime during pregnancy.
Is it dangerous? No, it usually disappears on its own.
How to treat it:
When it happens: Hot weather or after exercise.
Is it dangerous? No, but it’s annoying!
How to treat it:
When it happens: Anytime, especially if you had eczema before pregnancy.
Is it dangerous? No, but scratching can cause infections.
How to treat it:
When it happens: Usually in the third trimester.
Is it dangerous? Yes—ICP increases the risk of preterm birth and fetal distress.
Warning signs:
When it happens: Usually in the second or third trimester.
Is it dangerous? Yes, it can increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
How to treat it:
Calamine Lotion – Reduces irritation.
Aloe Vera Gel – Cools inflamed areas.
Coconut Oil – Helps with dry skin.
Cool Compresses – Relieves itching.
Loose Cotton Clothing – Prevents further irritation.
Hydration & Diet – Drinking plenty of water and eating omega-3-rich foods (like salmon, walnuts) can improve skin health. Pregnancy-Safe Medications (Ask Your Doctor First!):
Severe itching without a rash (possible ICP).
Painful blisters or sores (possible Pemphigoid Gestationis).
Fever or signs of infection (redness, pus, swelling).
Rash that doesn’t improve after a few days of home care.
Common Causes of Rashes During Pregnancy
Here are the most common rashes pregnant women experience:1. PUPPP (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy)
What it is: A red, bumpy rash that starts on the belly and spreads to the thighs, buttocks, and arms.When it happens: Usually in the third trimester.
Is it dangerous? No, but it can be very itchy and uncomfortable.
How to treat it:
- Apply cool compresses and wear loose clothing.
- Use calamine lotion or oatmeal baths for relief.
- Ask your doctor about pregnancy-safe antihistamines or steroid creams if needed.
2. Pregnancy Hormonal Rash
What it is: Small red or pink patches caused by hormonal changes.When it happens: Anytime during pregnancy.
Is it dangerous? No, it usually disappears on its own.
How to treat it:
- Keep skin moisturized with fragrance-free lotion.
- Avoid hot showers, which can dry out skin.
- Use mild, unscented soaps.
3. Heat Rash
What it is: Small, red, itchy bumps from excess sweat and heat.When it happens: Hot weather or after exercise.
Is it dangerous? No, but it’s annoying!
How to treat it:
- Stay cool and dry.
- Wear light, breathable fabrics.
- Apply cornstarch powder to reduce moisture.
4. Eczema & Dry Skin
What it is: Flaky, itchy, inflamed skin, often on hands, elbows, or knees.When it happens: Anytime, especially if you had eczema before pregnancy.
Is it dangerous? No, but scratching can cause infections.
How to treat it:
- Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers.
- Apply coconut oil or shea butter for hydration.
- Take short, lukewarm showers and pat skin dry.
- Ask your doctor about pregnancy-safe creams.
5. ICP (Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy)
What it is: A serious liver condition that causes intense itching, especially on the hands and feet.When it happens: Usually in the third trimester.
Is it dangerous? Yes—ICP increases the risk of preterm birth and fetal distress.
Warning signs:
- Severe itching without a rash (especially at night).
- Dark urine or pale stool.
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice).
6. Pemphigoid Gestationis (Rare Autoimmune Rash)
What it is: Painful, blistering rash that starts on the belly and spreads.When it happens: Usually in the second or third trimester.
Is it dangerous? Yes, it can increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
How to treat it:
- See your doctor ASAP for prescription treatments.
- Avoid scratching to prevent infections.
Safe Treatments for Pregnancy Rashes
Oatmeal Baths – Soothes itchy skin.Calamine Lotion – Reduces irritation.
Aloe Vera Gel – Cools inflamed areas.
Coconut Oil – Helps with dry skin.
Cool Compresses – Relieves itching.
Loose Cotton Clothing – Prevents further irritation.
Hydration & Diet – Drinking plenty of water and eating omega-3-rich foods (like salmon, walnuts) can improve skin health. Pregnancy-Safe Medications (Ask Your Doctor First!):
- Antihistamines (like Benadryl or Claritin) – For severe itching.
- Hydrocortisone Cream – For mild inflammation.
- Prescription Steroid Creams – For more serious rashes.
When to Call Your Doctor
Seek medical advice if you experience:Severe itching without a rash (possible ICP).
Painful blisters or sores (possible Pemphigoid Gestationis).
Fever or signs of infection (redness, pus, swelling).
Rash that doesn’t improve after a few days of home care.
