During pregnancy, dilation of the uterus can cause abdominal itching. As the uterus expands, the skin on the belly expands and dries up, causing it to sting. Some pregnant women may also suffer from a bumpy, itchy rash called PUPPP (itchy, itchy pregnancy-related papules and plaques) or PEP (polymorphous pregnancy rash). These disorders affect many pregnant women and cause sometimes intense itching that affects the entire body. To soothe it, you can apply over-the-counter products and home remedies. If the discomfort becomes unbearable, see your doctor.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Using Over-the-Counter Products
Step 1. Use an oil based moisturizer
Oil-based products are effective for moisturizing the abdomen and counteracting itching. In addition, they are perfect because they are easily absorbed by the skin. You can find them in the supermarket or in shops that sell personal hygiene items.
- Do not use creams containing additional fragrances, as they can irritate the skin even more. If you want to perfume a moisturizer, use lavender or frankincense essential oil. Pour a drop or two into the product. In addition to having a scent characterized by calming properties, they also help fight abdominal swelling caused by itching.
- Do not use essential oils of nutmeg, rosemary, basil, jasmine, moscatella, rose or juniper, as their use is not recommended during pregnancy.
Step 2. Apply calamine lotion
This product contains zinc, iron oxide and zinc carbonate, which help soothe the itch. Just apply a small amount to the itchy areas of the abdomen several times a day.
Calamine has been shown to be safe to use on the skin during pregnancy. However, if you are unsure about it, talk to your gynecologist before applying it
Step 3. Try a vitamin E lotion
This product is also effective in relieving itching. You can buy a ready-made lotion at the pharmacy or open a few vitamin E capsules and massage the contents into your abdomen.
Avoid applying large doses of vitamin E to pregnant skin, as it can increase the risk of your baby suffering from heart disease
Method 2 of 4: Apply Home Remedies
Step 1. Take an oat or baking soda bath
Skin can be soothed using natural remedies, especially if over-the-counter products don't convince you. An oatmeal or baking soda bath helps fight inflammation and abdominal itching.
- To prepare an oatmeal bath, you will need a nylon knee-high. Fill it with flaked oats, then tie it to the tub faucet for hot water to run through the knee-high. Immerse yourself in the water for as long as you like, so you can relax and find relief.
- Alternatively, fill the tub with hot water and pour ½ cup of baking soda into it. Immerse yourself for as long as you like. Make sure you use pure baking soda.
Step 2. Use aloe vera gel after showering
This product soothes irritated skin and is a good natural solution for pregnant women. You can find it at the pharmacy or on the internet.
Wash your abdomen with water and dry it before applying aloe vera gel. Massage it into the itchy areas whenever you feel the need. Make sure you wash your hands after applying
Step 3. Apply a cold compress to the abdomen
Take a clean sponge and soak it in cold water. Gently massage it on your abdomen to soothe the itch. This method can be combined with an oat or baking soda bath.
Method 3 of 4: Change Your Habits
Step 1. Resist the urge to scratch
Although the temptation is strong, try not to give in. Scratching the itchy areas will only irritate the skin even more. In addition, the discomfort will extend to other areas of the abdomen, as you will stimulate the release of chemicals that will cause you to scratch even more.
Step 2. Don't take hot showers and don't use harsh soaps
Try not to expose your abdomen to heat, for example, avoid hot showers or baths. The intense heat only further irritates the itchy areas.
You should also avoid using harsh soaps or bath products containing irritating fragrances or ingredients, otherwise the itchiness will only get worse. Instead, opt for mild glycerin soaps, which are less aggressive
Step 3. Wear soft cotton clothing
Look for maternity clothing in fabrics that allow the skin to breathe and are soft to the touch. This way they won't irritate the skin and won't make itching worse.
You should make sure you always wear maternity shirts and dresses that do not tighten or encircle the abdomen to avoid irritating the skin in this area
Method 4 of 4: See a Doctor
Step 1. If itching affects the rest of your body, see your doctor
It is also good to go to a specialist if the situation worsens, ranging from itching to a rash characterized by bumps or blisters on the abdomen and / or other parts of the body. If over-the-counter lotions or home remedies don't work, talk to your doctor.
You should also see a doctor if the abdominal itch gets worse, especially at night. By treating the disorder properly, it should go away on its own following delivery. Also, for many women, the problem no longer occurs after they get through their first pregnancy
Step 2. Ask your doctor to prescribe an anti-itch cream
If the discomfort is unbearable, try using a prescription cream. Expectant mothers can use steroid creams safely if needed. However, your doctor will only prescribe this type of medicine if the itching is acute and the other remedies have not worked.
Step 3. Get tested to rule out other conditions
If you have acute itching, your doctor may order tests to see if you have other conditions, such as PUPPP (itchy itchy papules and plaques during pregnancy), PEP (polymorphous eruption of pregnancy) or ICP (intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy). These conditions should be treated immediately with the guidance of your doctor to make sure they do not adversely affect the pregnancy.
- The causes of PUPPP are not known exactly, but it seems that the pathology is due to an immune reaction, genetic factors or family history. It should be treated just like a normal pregnancy abdominal itch, using moisturizers and steroids. It usually passes on its own following childbirth.
- ICP is a rare disease affecting less than 1% of pregnant women. It is caused by liver or gallbladder problems. Symptoms include itching, loss of appetite, mild or moderate nausea, and fatigue. Itching can become worse at night. ICP is treated with soothing creams and lotions, anti-itch medicines, adopting new habits regarding lifestyle and nutrition.
