The body itches during pregnancy - possible causes and preventive measures. Why does the body often itch during pregnancy? Skin itching during late pregnancy

Allergy as the cause of itching

Sometimes in the early stages of pregnancy, severe itching worries, the reasons for this phenomenon may be an allergic reaction.

In this case, a woman needs:

limit contact with pets;
avoid rooms where there is a lot of dust;
replace the feather pillow;
temporarily stop wearing woolen clothes;
limit the use of allergic products;
avoid contact with sunlight.

If itching during pregnancy is the cause of an allergy, then it is possible to get rid of all its symptoms by eliminating the irritant. Once and for all, it is impossible to eliminate this disease, but if you follow the advice of a doctor and a healthy diet, you can improve the condition.

The main symptoms of this disease are pruritus, which often increases at night. On the skin, you can see certain wounds. Often several people in the family suffer from this disease at the same time.

To cure the disease, you should see an infectious disease doctor. After that, you need to pass a scraping from the skin to identify the scabies mite. Further, patients are prescribed ointments, medicines and careful treatment of the bed.

Cholestasis of pregnancy and itching

Cholestasis often develops against the background of pathological processes in the liver. In this case, there is stagnation of bile in the gallbladder. There is intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholestasis.

With this disease, pregnant women may feel itching in the plantar and palmar surfaces. Further unpleasant symptoms can be felt throughout the body. The most pronounced complaints are at night. Cholestasis occurs in the last month of pregnancy.

Intrahepatic cholestasis

Women who have:

diseases of the digestive tract;
pancreatic tumor;
hereditary predisposition;
problems in the bile ducts;
cholelithiasis.

In addition to severe skin itching, pregnant women need to pay attention to feces, urine and skin color. If you start the disease, then the feces will have a light shade, the urine will become dark, and the skin will turn yellow. A high content of bile pigments can harm mother and child.

To determine cholestasis, pregnant women need to pass the following tests:

general analysis of urine and blood;
blood glucose;
Ultrasound of the liver and gallbladder;
blood biochemistry.

Analysis of the level of bile acids and liver tests are taken twice. This is due to the fact that pruritus is often a precursor to changes in blood counts.

How to deal with itching yourself?

Treatment of itching on the skin is aimed at eliminating the underlying cause, the onset of the symptom. To do this, you can use the following recommendations of doctors:

Ventilate the apartment every day so that the room is no more than 18 ° C. The procedure is necessary to prevent excessive sweating.
Doctors recommend taking a shower every day and following the rules of hygiene.
Itchy places should be washed daily with a soda solution or medicinal herbs in the form of a tricolor violet, chamomile and a string.
It is advisable for pregnant women to make compresses with duckweed and chamomile. Herbs must first be ground to a state of porridge, and then put them on the skin, covering them with a gauze napkin. The procedure is preferably carried out twice a day.

Such methods can eliminate itching. However, it is important not to forget to treat the underlying disease. Indeed, otherwise, the itching can return again and bring discomfort to a pregnant woman.

Patients with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels. Sometimes you will need to inject insulin. Such treatment must take place under the supervision of an endocrinologist.

If pregnant women suffer from dermatosis, then they are prescribed a diet that excludes spicy and salty foods. To eliminate itching, lotions with a solution of potassium permanganate are applied to the itchy place. Antihistamines and vitamin therapy help to eliminate burning sensation.

Treatment for cholestasis takes place in a hospital. Patients are prescribed drugs for the outflow of bile (Papaverine) and to maintain the functioning of the liver (Essentiale).

If women have jaundice, then there is a direct threat to the health of the expectant mother. With such a disease, a pregnant woman is hospitalized and the pregnancy is terminated at any time.

What should a future mother do?

Regardless of which part of the body is prone to discomfort, a woman should definitely consult a doctor. Only a doctor can determine the true cause of the itching. If there are suspicions of abnormal liver function, then a number of important studies should be carried out: take a blood test or do an ultrasound scan. In the event that a woman needs the help of doctors, a pregnant woman can be admitted to a hospital in order to undergo the entire course of treatment under the supervision of doctors.

The following recommendations help to alleviate the condition of the expectant mother:

Pregnant women need to watch their diet. You should refrain from salty, fried and fatty foods. You also need to give up overseas fruits and seafood. After all, they cause allergies. To improve bowel function, you should eat dried apricots and prunes. It is worth temporarily abandoning the intake of sweets. Instead of chocolate, you can eat homemade yogurt and fresh fruit.
Cleanliness of the body should come first. You should abandon your favorite gel, and instead buy a children's series that does not irritate the skin.
A cosmetic cream that does not have dyes and a pronounced aroma helps to eliminate itching. In extreme cases, you can buy baby cream.
Don't forget to take water. If a pregnant woman does not have edema, then you should drink up to 2 liters of water daily.
You can improve your condition by walking in the fresh air and healthy sleep in a well-ventilated room.
It is important to review your personal wardrobe and abandon underwear made from synthetic materials. Clothing must be spacious and not interfere with movement.
Bathing in hot baths is prohibited.
If the legs itch, then a soothing compress of oatmeal, which is steamed in milk, can be applied to the inflamed area.
Pregnant women need to endure so as not to scratch the skin.
To eliminate itching, you can take baths with herbs once every 7 days, which relieve inflammation. You can choose good herbs with the help of a gynecologist. A string and chamomile help improve health.

Itching brings a pregnant woman a lot of unpleasant troubles. After all, the body is constantly itching, and this interferes with doing other things. Sometimes for this reason, the mood can deteriorate or sleep can be disturbed. In this case, you should clearly follow all the doctor's recommendations.

Instruction

Do not self-medicate. If the problem has become acute - consult a gynecologist or dermatologist. The correct treatment should be prescribed by a doctor. After all, many drugs are contraindicated during the period of bearing a baby. Expectant mothers can only deal with the cause of itching on their own with helpers and.

If the cause of itching is skin changes - stretch marks, then creams and folk remedies will help. With the growth of the baby, the expectant mother's belly increases,. Sometimes this is accompanied by stretch marks on the skin and discomfort. Sign up for a massage. If this is not possible, do it yourself. Purchase anti-stretch mark creams, but be sure to look at the note about the possibility of using this product for pregnant women. Folk remedies, baths with decoctions of herbs help well. Pour a glass of chamomile flowers with a liter of boiling water, leave for a day. Add liquid to water and take warm baths. Chamomile relieves irritation and inflammation. Do not miss the opportunity to take a contrast shower during the day. Follow the rules of personal hygiene. In hot weather, try to wear only natural fabrics so that the skin can breathe. If you can’t take a shower, and you feel like you’re sweating, buy special hypoallergenic wet wipes.

Sometimes hormones are the cause of itching, they cause stagnation of bile in the liver, and as a result, there is a greater production of bile acids, this becomes the basis of irritation on the skin. At the pregnant hand and foot. With such a manifestation of itching, a cooling body cream will help fight. It can be purchased at a pharmacy.

When irritation on the body is of a psychological nature, excitement, anxiety, nervousness, the doctor prescribes mild sedatives. You can do your own prevention. Drink herbal teas. In a pharmacy you can buy a root. It can be added to regular black tea or made into a tincture with chamomile. Dried mint and lemon balm are brewed in a ratio of one to one - in the amount of a teaspoon per glass of boiling water. The infusion should stand for 10-15 minutes. It should be taken 30 minutes before meals. When it comes to the psychological cause of itching, a young mother should take care to exclude such factors as excitement, anxiety and nervousness from her everyday life. Walk outdoors more often, smile. Do what you love in your free time. Pregnancy is the most beautiful state, let nothing overshadow it.

Itching during pregnancy is a common complaint of women expecting the birth of a baby. In this case, sensitive areas of the skin can be located in a variety of places. Naturally, most often in pregnant women, itching is localized in the abdomen, less often they note that the whole body itches. Should I be worried about such a problem? What is itching during pregnancy, and how to deal with it? You will find answers to these questions in this article.

Why does the body itch during pregnancy?

Specialists identify a number of the following reasons that are not included in the risk group for the development of conditions dangerous for pregnant women:

Increased load on the liver, resulting in the development of cholestasis (stagnation of bile), which disappears immediately after a successful birth.
Hormonal changes in the body of a woman who is preparing to become a mother, associated with an increase in estrogen synthesis. Utilization of the excess of these hormones occurs in the liver, which creates an additional load on the organ and leads to its dysfunction with the accumulation of bile. The toxic substances accumulated in the hepatic ducts are carried throughout the body with the blood flow, irritate the nervous sensations and potentiate the occurrence of itching sensations (hands itch during pregnancy, legs and other parts of the body).
Drying and irritation of the skin, as a result of an increase in the body weight of a woman and a change in the volume of fluid circulating through the vessels.
The formation of stretch marks, which are known to pregnant women as stretch marks of the skin of the abdomen, due to a deficiency in the body of collagen and elastin against the background of a rapid increase in the volume of the abdomen. The lower extremity girdle may also suffer. Often during pregnancy, legs itch as a result of skin stretching.
Wearing underwear made from low quality synthetic fabrics that are very tight fitting.
Increased sweating, when excess moisture creates favorable conditions for the growth and reproduction of microorganisms on the surface of the skin that can provoke the appearance of itchy sensations.

During pregnancy, itchy skin is a fairly common occurrence that does not harm the health of the expectant mother and her baby. But in some cases, a similar symptom can signal a malfunction in the body of a pregnant woman. Therefore, you should not ignore any discomfort or discomfort, but immediately seek advice from an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Itching of pregnant women can be a sign of serious disorders in the body of a future mother, which, without adequate medical correction and immediate response from doctors, often cause premature termination of pregnancy or pose a real threat to the health of a woman and her baby.

There are the following diseases that can provoke itching of the skin during pregnancy:

diabetes mellitus diagnosed in a woman before pregnancy, as well as persistent hyperglycemia in the later stages (gestational diabetes);
allergic reactions that are frequent companions of pregnant women and occur under the influence of various factors on their bodies, including food, hygiene products, synthetic vitamins, and the like (itchy rash most often appears on thin and delicate skin, in natural folds);
skin itching during pregnancy can be an early symptom of severe liver dysfunction;
thrush or candidiasis provokes the appearance of itchy sensations in the genital area, which are accompanied by copious secretions with a sour smell;
hormonal changes in pregnant women with an increase in the activity of the production of thyroid hormones, adrenal glands;
nervous disorders;
skin diseases, in particular, lichen, eczema, dermatitis, scabies and fungal infection of epidermal tissues;
chronic intoxication of the body.

Why does the body itch during pregnancy? Doctors hear this question every day. Itching sensations can haunt a woman throughout the entire period of bearing a child, and may manifest themselves exclusively in the first or second half of pregnancy.

During early pregnancy, itching of the body is felt by about half of expectant mothers. This unpleasant symptom appears already in the first month and is associated with hormonal changes in the body of women. Sometimes some of them perceive such discomfort as a sign of pregnancy, which has come. Such a judgment is far from reality, since these two concepts are not normally combined.

The main reason why the body itches in the first weeks of pregnancy is the activation of pathogenic microflora, the exacerbation of chronic thrush and the development of bacterial vaginosis. All this happens against the background of a sharp decrease in immunity, therefore it has pronounced clinical symptoms. Also, at the beginning of pregnancy, a woman begins to develop cholestasis and, as a result, severe itching throughout her body.

Itching in late pregnancy

Particularly acute women feel itching and burning during pregnancy for a period of 32-36 weeks. The reason for such changes may be a rapid increase in the size of the abdomen, skin stretching and the formation of stretch marks.

It is extremely rare at 6-9 months of pregnancy that itchy sensations in women are a sign of hepatitis or hepatosis. It is not worth suspecting cholestasis in expectant mothers in the later stages, since it almost never occurs during this period.

What to do if itching occurs during pregnancy?

If a woman's body itches during pregnancy, it is better not to postpone a visit to the doctor, but to consult a dermatologist and gynecologist as soon as possible. Treatment of the condition must be necessarily based and aimed at eliminating the main cause of the development of the pathological process that has become the reason for the occurrence of itching.

Simple recommendations will help to alleviate the general condition of a pregnant patient, which include:

the need to eat right and exclude from the diet foods that can provoke the development of allergies;
the importance of observing the drinking regimen (if the skin itches all over the body, doctors recommend that the expectant mother drink at least 2-2.5 liters of fluid per day);
prevention of drying of the skin by using special moisturizing cosmetics;
control over personal hygiene of the body, wearing loose underwear made from natural fabrics, frequent taking a warm shower;
avoidance of stressful situations;
relaxing massage.

Drug treatment of itching during pregnancy is indicated for female representatives in whom discomfort is associated with the presence of diseases of the internal organs.

With the development of hepatosis, you should drink a course of hepatoprotectors of plant origin, sorbents and immuno-strengthening agents.
Skin diseases should be treated by a dermatologist. Therapy of such conditions is aimed at eliminating the main etiological factor in the occurrence of itching.
In case of allergies, it is advisable to use antihistamines.
In diabetes, it is very important to maintain the maximum acceptable blood sugar level for a woman's body by increasing insulin doses and tightening the diet.
In the case of the neurogenic nature of itching, patients are prescribed sedatives, sedative decoctions and teas.

If itching of the body appears at any time, you should not panic and self-medicate, it is better to seek help from a specialist. A professional approach and proper treatment will minimize discomfort during pregnancy, facilitate its course and prevent the occurrence of possible diseases, both for the expectant mother and the baby.

Why is itching during pregnancy dangerous?

The itching of the body itself during pregnancy is not a dangerous condition for a woman's health. It is not he who can harm, but the reasons that provoked unpleasant sensations. For example, discomfort significantly worsens the emotional background, and also disrupts the full-fledged sleep of the expectant mother, as a result of which she becomes irritable, feels unwell, and experiences depression.

In addition, severe itching, provoked by internal ailments, is a danger to the health of the baby. It often causes distress (lack of oxygen to the child) of the fetus, as well as other more serious complications.

Prevention

As you know, skin itching during the period of bearing a child is always easier to prevent than to cure. To achieve this, the advice of doctors will help, including:

compliance with the correct diet of a pregnant woman and the rejection of products that can cause allergies;
regular body hygiene with water procedures and the use of hypoallergenic products;
the use of vitamin complexes that improve the condition of the skin, folic acid, magne B6;
a conscious choice of creams for skin stretch marks that contain a minimum amount of flavorings;
regular spending time in the fresh air, long walks before going to bed;
adequate drinking regimen;
taking herbal baths using chamomile, calendula, St. John's wort;
avoidance of direct sunlight;
prevention of scratching with their subsequent infection and the use of a special ointment for itching;
changing synthetic underwear to more natural and high-quality ones.

It is important to remember that itching during pregnancy is one of the causes of a violation of the general condition and psycho-emotional background of a woman. It disturbs sleep, makes the expectant mother irritable. Therefore, you should not endure such discomfort, but immediately seek help from a doctor and solve the problem until its consequences arise.

ICD-10 code

Causes of itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy, which causes the scratching reflex, occurs in about 20% of all pregnant women. This symptom can occur suddenly for no particular reason, and also be a signal of a developing disease, especially if skin rashes, an allergic rash, urticaria, etc. appear on the body of a pregnant woman. For an accurate diagnosis of this condition, the expectant mother needs to contact her doctor, who, after examining the woman, if necessary, will prescribe an additional examination or consultation with a highly specialized medical specialist.

The causes of itching during pregnancy are varied. Among them are:

Stress, nervous tension, imbalance of the nervous system. In this case, itching is usually activated at night, when any extraneous irritants stop distracting the pregnant woman.
Stretching of the skin due to the constantly growing belly of a pregnant woman (the most harmless reason).
Multiple pregnancy, due to which there is a large abdominal circumference.
A significant weight gain of a pregnant woman, which provokes strong stretch marks.
Excessive dryness of the skin due to dehydration.
Changes in the hormonal system of a pregnant woman, which provoke a loss of skin elasticity due to reduced production of collagen and elastin in the body.
Skin diseases (urticaria, allergic rashes, polymorphic dermatosis, eczema, seborrhea, psoriasis, as well as dermatitis of various etiologies).
Diseases of internal organs (stagnation of bile, cholecystitis, malfunctions of the liver, cholestasis, biliary dyskinesia, etc.).

Cholestasis in pregnant women is provoked by increased production of estrogen. This leads to increased production of bile acids, which cause itching when it enters the skin. This disease in most cases does not carry a risk for intrauterine development of the fetus. Violation of the functions of the liver, organs of the urinary system and gallbladder can be caused by a growing and, accordingly, pressing uterus on these organs. Itching is often a symptom that signals a malfunction in these organs. In extreme cases, the expectant mother may need to be hospitalized.

Burning and itching in the external genital organs and in the vagina may indicate an inflammatory process or the development of an infectious disease. In this case, there is reason to sound the alarm, because due to infections of the genitourinary system, the fetus may suffer, or disturbances in its normal development will occur. If itching and other unpleasant symptoms occur, indicating the possibility of an infection in the woman's body, it is necessary to conduct an examination with a doctor as soon as possible and begin treatment.

In addition to the fact that itching in the vagina can occur due to infection, sexually transmitted diseases, thrush, its cause is often caused by a change in the level of acid-base balance of the mucosa. The most common causes of this itching are:

constant wearing of synthetic underwear, thong panties;
regular use of daily scented pads;
overheating or hypothermia of the pelvic organs;
the use of alkaline antibacterial agents intended for intimate hygiene;
colpitis (inflammation of the vaginal mucosa);
genital herpes, etc.

The causes of itching during pregnancy may be the result of prolonged use of antibiotics, the development of diabetes in a pregnant woman, and iron deficiency in the body of a future mother. Among other causes of unpleasant itching in a pregnant woman are insect bites (bugs, mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, etc.).

As for the localization of physiological itching during pregnancy, it most often occurs on the abdomen, back, and soles of the feet. It is very important to distinguish between the itching associated with hormonal changes in the body and the itching caused by scabies, a skin disease. That is why, regardless of the cause of itching, the expectant mother should always consult with her doctor.

Symptoms of itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can occur suddenly and is directly related to the structure of the skin. The fact is that the skin of the human body contains a whole host of nerve endings that have subtle sensitivity and react sharply even to any stimulus - touch, prick or blow, vibration, chemical substance. As a result, any irritation of the skin often provokes itching, accompanied by a scratching reflex.

Often itching can be caused by inflammatory or allergic reactions, in connection with which a biologically active substance called "histamine" is formed in the skin of a pregnant woman, which irritates the nerve endings. In addition, histamine provokes tissue edema, resulting in redness and swelling of the skin, and also contributes to increased blood flow to the affected area. The pathology of the biliary tract and liver causes the deposition of bilirubin and bile acids in the skin, which also causes itching in pregnant women.

Symptoms of itching during pregnancy are associated with a protective reaction of the body, its "response" to the irritant and its elimination from the surface of the skin. When itching occurs, a scratching reflex of the skin is observed, as a result of which scratching and cracks, severe redness, thinning of the skin and inflammation can occur.

Symptoms of itching in the female genital organs, in particular in the vagina, are local discomfort, a strong desire to scratch the place, an unpleasant burning sensation that bothers a pregnant woman. Almost always, this unpleasant symptom is accompanied by redness and swelling of the skin. Constant scratching of the itching localization sites leads to abrasions and scratches on the skin, which, in turn, can cause a secondary infection to penetrate the skin with the appearance of tissue edema, ulcers and cracks.

Signs of itching may indicate the initial stage of a skin disease. For example, with skin irritation and severe itching on the elbows, knees, or skin folds, a pregnant woman may develop eczema. This is due to the hormonal, physiological and stress factors that accompany pregnancy.

Symptoms of itching during pregnancy should alert a pregnant woman. Naturally, self-treatment of itching with the help of any medications, ointments and lotions is out of the question. Therefore, the expectant mother is strongly recommended to consult a doctor at the first symptoms of a manifestation of a painful condition. Uncontrolled treatment of the same eczema or dermatitis can lead to an unpredictable course of the disease and adversely affect the health of both the expectant mother and her baby.

Skin diseases of an infectious nature, the symptoms of which are burning, itching, an irresistible and increased desire to scratch, occur in pregnant women against a background of weakened immunity. Candidiasis and thrush are very common diseases in expectant mothers, one of the main symptoms of which is itching in the genital area, discomfort, burning, and scabies. Measures taken to treat these diseases should be, first of all, aimed at eliminating the main cause that causes itching in a pregnant woman.

Itching during pregnancy, regardless of the nature and cause of the manifestation, should be noticed in time by a pregnant woman. But the definition of its clinical picture and the competent prescription of treatment is exclusively the prerogative of the doctor. At home, to temporarily eliminate an unpleasant symptom, you can use warm baths of medicinal herbs: mint, sage, chamomile, oak bark. It is worth taking special care of personal hygiene and excluding such a product as toilet soap, wearing synthetic underwear. In addition, you need to take care of adjusting the diet: exclude salty and spicy foods, which can only aggravate the symptoms of itching and the manifestations of the disease.

Body itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can occur suddenly, thereby taking the expectant mother by surprise, especially if the causes of this symptom are unknown. Itching is localized both in a certain area of \u200b\u200bthe skin, so it can cover the entire body of a pregnant woman. Usually, such a symptom indicates a malfunction of the internal organs and the presence of diseases in a woman that existed even before the onset of pregnancy.

Itching of the body during pregnancy can be triggered by an allergic reaction of the body to a certain irritant substance. In order to prevent the development of the corresponding painful symptoms, it is necessary to take care of the hypoallergenic mode of life and diet of the pregnant woman in advance. Often itching of the body is the cause of the presence of an endocrine disease (diabetes mellitus, thyrotoxicosis, etc.). If such problems exist even before the start of pregnancy, a woman needs to tell the doctor about them at the stage of planning such a responsible and important event in life as carrying and giving birth to a child. This will help to minimize the development of exacerbations and various complications. It is much worse when hormonal disorders appear during the period of expectation of a child - in this case, the expectant mother needs correction and selection of a new regimen, as well as a diet.

Sometimes itching of the body during pregnancy in the last months of bearing a baby occurs due to the development of severe preeclampsia, often accompanied by such a dangerous disease as hepatitis. Due to the violation of the functions of the liver as an organ that filters the body from decay products, there is an accumulation of harmful substances in the tissues of the body, including the skin. As a result of this process, severe itching of the whole body occurs.

Itching of the body during pregnancy is an unpleasant condition, the common causes of which may be:

stress and neuroses;
mechanical damage by tight clothing;
scabies (accompanied by the appearance of grayish pimples and small blisters on the body);
urticaria (with this ailment, a certain place on the body usually itches: for example, the palms of the hands, feet, earlobes, etc.);
impaired kidney function (as a result, the entire surface of the body itches; this is due to the delay in the body of a pregnant woman of nitrogenous toxins that come out with sweat, causing severe itching);
jaundice (a very common cause of skin itching; the disease can be detected using a biochemical blood test).

The cause of itching of the skin can be a disease of lymphogranulomatosis (disruption of the lymphatic system). Usually the skin itches in those areas where the lymph glands are enlarged. In this case, the expectant mother should consult a hematologist.

The body may itch when tumors occur in the gastrointestinal tract, malfunctions of the thyroid gland.

Itching during pregnancy can be reduced with the help of a properly selected diet, excluding spicy and salty foods, spices, strong tea and coffee from it. Useful in this case will be marine treatments, soothing baths based on decoctions of herbs (chamomile, oak bark, succession, celandine), as well as a warm shower.

A pregnant woman should try not to scratch her body, as this will cause an even greater desire to itch, as a result of which irritation, redness of the skin and even infection may occur. For hygiene procedures, in order to avoid itching of the body, expectant mothers are recommended to use mild detergents with a normal pH level.

If a symptom such as body itching is detected, a pregnant woman should visit a doctor as soon as possible, who will conduct an examination and, based on the laboratory results obtained, find out the main cause of the development of the disease.

Severe itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy does not necessarily indicate serious pathologies in the body of the expectant mother, but this symptom causes quite noticeable discomfort. A pregnant woman is especially worried about severe itching all over her body. If such a symptom occurs, a woman should discuss the problem with an observing gynecologist.

Severe itching during pregnancy has a different etiology, one of the common causes of this symptom is dryness and stretching of the skin due to the growing tummy. Most often, severe itching due to the rapid weight gain of a pregnant woman occurs in the second half of the gestation period, when its intensive intrauterine development and growth occurs. Such a symptom as severe, unbearable itching is a kind of signal that the weight gain of the pregnant woman is happening too quickly, thereby causing discomfort for the female body. This is not a dangerous symptom, just the expectant mother needs to take care of the prevention of stretch marks and apply specially designed care products to the skin areas that will moisturize the skin and maintain its elasticity.

The appearance of severe itching of the skin of the body may indicate the presence of a skin disease: eczema, scabies, urticaria; idiopathic itching is often manifested, which causes a strong reflex of scratching the skin of the hands, feet, as well as various parts of the body. On itchy areas of the skin, scratches, scratches, redness and irritation of the skin are observed. Itching of the skin during pregnancy can occur paroxysmal or be permanent.

As a rule, itching is more intense in the evening, and, unfortunately, sometimes it becomes unbearable, thereby causing severe discomfort to the expectant mother. Itching is often combined with other symptoms: rash, redness, rashes in the form of small vesicles and pimples, severe peeling of the skin. In such cases, there is reason to talk about problems in the liver. This disorder can be diagnosed by passing a urine test. Failures in the functioning of the liver are most often affected by women who have an increase in cholesterol levels, and also have diseases of the genitourinary system of a chronic type.

Severe itching during pregnancy can be triggered by allergies. If other reasons for the development of a symptom during examination of a pregnant woman are not identified, there is reason to think that itching is caused by an allergen. How exactly - this is another question that the allergist will decide by conducting the necessary tests and analyzes.

Itching during pregnancy can also cause excessive sweating, which is especially common during the third trimester. Summer gift, an active lifestyle of a future mother, improperly selected clothes are factors that lead to increased sweating, which causes skin irritation that causes severe itching. The best way to deal with such an unpleasant sensation is to shower regularly, as well as frequent changes of underwear and the choice of clothes made from natural fabrics that are breathable and have sufficient hygroscopicity.

Only a competent dermatologist can confirm the presence of any skin infection that causes severe itching during childbearing, and prescribe the appropriate treatment for the disease. For accurate diagnosis, it may be necessary to conduct special laboratory tests of skin samples.

Itchy skin during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy is not very common, but this symptom cannot be called rare either. Most often, itching in pregnant women develops in the second half of bearing a baby, usually starting from 5-6 months. Itching is especially strong at night, when external irritants cease to influence a woman, which in the daytime slightly distract from unpleasant sensations.

Itching of the skin during pregnancy has various causes. These can be dermatological diseases, as well as malfunctions of the liver, kidneys, and digestive system of the body. Often, an increased level of estrogen in the blood of a future mother leads to cholestasis - a stagnant process of bile in the liver. As a result of this, there is an excessive release of bile acids, which, getting into the skin, provoke severe itching. During the period of bearing a child, the functional processes in the liver also change: the levels of ALT and bilirubin increase. Such disorders in the body lead to such a symptom as itchy skin. But the expectant mother must take care of herself. In addition to a visit to the doctor to determine the causes of skin itching, a woman needs to start using softening and moisturizing hygiene products that prevent overdrying of the skin. Rubbing especially itchy places with oil or neutral body milk will greatly alleviate the condition of a pregnant woman. Of the medications for skin itching, cholestyramine, activated charcoal, various talkers that cleanse the intestines and remove harmful toxins from the body are usually prescribed.

It is recommended to support the liver with hepatoprotectors in the form of drugs such as Essentiale, Karsil, etc. It contributes well to the outflow of bile no-shpa. Of course, any drug, even made on a plant basis, should be used only after consulting a doctor. It is he who will prescribe an examination that will reveal the causes of pruritus in a pregnant woman.

Itching of the skin during pregnancy, although quite rare, can be caused by food intolerance. It can be an exotic fruit or a seafood dish that a woman has not eaten before. In this case, it is better not to experiment with food.

One of the most common causes of pruritus in pregnant women is hormonal changes, which often result in excessive dryness and sensitivity of the skin. In addition to the natural causes of skin itching during pregnancy, physiological ones are possible, provoked by a malfunction of the internal organs or sensitivity to external stimuli: allergies and stagnation of bile in the liver. With an allergic reaction of the body, in addition to itching, the skin may have swelling, become covered with a small rash. In the second case, with violations in the liver, yellowing of the skin is often observed in pregnant women.

Itching during pregnancy, whatever it may be - minor, severe, persistent or systematic - must be diagnosed by an experienced medical specialist. Especially dangerous in combination with this symptom is the deterioration of the general condition of a pregnant woman.

Itching in the perineum during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy is a very painful, unpleasant sensation, which is accompanied by a constant desire to comb the skin or mucous membranes. Sensations of this kind in pregnant women occur for a number of reasons and, accordingly, require timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Often expectant mothers complain of itching in the perineum. What can cause this symptom? To begin with, it should be noted that during the development of pregnancy, the woman's immune system begins to work in a completely different way. Fluctuations in hormones negatively affect the body's defenses and lower immunity. This applies to changes in the acid-base balance in the pregnant woman's vagina, which provokes increased reproduction of "harmful" groups of microorganisms, which often cause the development of various gynecological diseases. One of the main symptoms of such ailments is precisely the itching in the perineum and genitals of a woman.

Itching in the perineum during pregnancy mainly has two common causes of its occurrence - the development of thrush (candidiasis) and bacterial vaginosis. Thrush during pregnancy often causes itching in the perineum, labia and vagina. This disease is caused by the fungal microorganism Candida, accompanied by white secretions of the "curdled" type and has a sour smell. If thrush is not treated, then during childbirth, the child may well become infected with a fungal infection, passing through an infected birth canal. A smear on the vaginal flora will help determine thrush - this procedure is included in the program of mandatory tests and examinations carried out regularly during pregnancy.

When treating pregnant women with candidiasis, it is important to refrain from sexual activity, as well as to review the diet, excluding sweets, spicy dishes, coffee and various seasonings from it. The expectant mother should follow all the doctor's instructions in order to get rid of this ailment as soon as possible.

Bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy is a disorder that is accompanied by the replacement of "beneficial" lactobacilli in the vagina with "harmful" non-fungal microorganisms. Bacterial vaginosis can cause severe itching in the perineum, as well as a cloudy, viscous, yellowish vaginal discharge. However, there are cases when vaginosis in women is almost asymptomatic, and its presence is determined only as a result of a smear test for the vaginal flora. This disease is dangerous because its neglected variant can cause premature birth in a pregnant woman.

Itching in the perineum during pregnancy can occur as a result of the development of diabetes. Accompanying symptoms in this case are frequent urination, increased sugar in the urine and blood, and intense thirst. The appearance of itching in this case is explained by the fact that the remains of urine, which have a high glucose content, after urination provoke irritation of the genital organs, cause itching in the perineum, and burning. Treatment of the disease must be competent and take into account all possible risks for the mother and child.

Other causes of itchy perineum in pregnant women can be tight clothing, wearing underwear made of synthetic fabrics, and poor personal hygiene. The fibers of synthetic fabrics, in contact with the skin, cause it to overheat, resulting in irritation and redness of the skin in the perineum. Pregnant women should pay special attention to the choice of cosmetics, washing intimate gels, which can often contain harmful components and fragrances. Such drugs can provoke allergic reactions in a pregnant woman, which manifest themselves in the form of itching, rashes and redness of the skin. In any case, if a symptom such as itching in the perineum occurs during pregnancy, the expectant mother should consult her doctor.

Itchy feet during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy is often localized in a specific place - on the skin of the abdomen, arms, legs, perineum, etc. Why does this unpleasant symptom occur? The answer to this question is mainly related to hormonal changes in the body of a pregnant woman, which provoke a decrease in immunity and the development of symptoms of various diseases, as well as an exacerbation of chronic ailments.

Itching of the legs during pregnancy is a sure sign that the expectant mother has previously suffered from skin diseases. Against the backdrop of a weakened immune system during pregnancy, skin diseases can reappear. Itchy feet can be caused by allergies, scabies, or a fungal infection. Discomfort and discomfort in the area of the feet and between the toes in a pregnant woman can signal the development of fungal skin diseases, as well as the appearance of urticaria, vascular diseases, in particular, varicose veins.

If the itching of the skin of the legs of a pregnant woman is pronounced, it may indicate dermatophytosis - a fungal infection of the feet. Other signs of mycosis (fungal infection of the feet) can be peeling, redness and thickening of the skin, as well as its cracking in the area between the toes of a pregnant woman.

Often, mycosis is combined with onychomycosis - a lesion of the fungal nature of the toenails. With this disease, the nails begin to crumble, acquire a cloudy color, become loose and thicken.

Itching of the legs during pregnancy may indicate varicose veins, the signs of which are also frequent swelling, a feeling of heaviness in the legs. In the later stages of this disease, an expanded venous network can be visually seen on the legs. With severe itching of the legs, it is imperative to consult a doctor who, depending on the severity of the condition of the pregnant woman, will prescribe effective medications.

Itching during pregnancy that occurs on the legs requires mandatory diagnosis and timely treatment, depending on the cause that caused this symptom. So, with a fungal infection of the legs, the expectant mother is credited with antifungal drugs that have a local effect. Folk methods of treatment with lotions and baths from decoctions of medicinal herbs are also widely practiced. The expectant mother will have to give up uncomfortable shoes, as well as foot deodorants.

With allergic lesions of the skin of the legs of a pregnant woman, antihistamines Suprastin, Tavegil, Loratidin, Zirtek are mainly used. Taking drugs is prescribed strictly on the recommendation of a dermatologist who will assess all possible risks to the fetus.

To relieve itchy feet during pregnancy, you can use simple recommendations. Showering several times a day can help relieve itching. After such a water procedure, itchy places are recommended to be treated with cosmetic oil or milk. It is necessary to ensure that the composition of such products does not contain alcohol, which can provoke even greater dryness of the skin.

Itching of the legs during pregnancy is often treated with special talkers designed to relieve itching and skin irritation. They can be purchased at pharmacies with a doctor's prescription. To alleviate the condition will help the intake of vitamin E, as well as the consumption of large amounts of fluid - at least 2.5 liters per day. However, the expectant mother should remember that self-medication can be dangerous, so her first task is to consult a doctor.

Itchy clitoris during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy often makes a woman tired and irritable due to the constant need to scratch the itchy skin area. This symptom can occur for a number of reasons, one of which is a urinary tract infection. The development of a disease in a pregnant woman most often occurs against a background of weakened immunity.

Itching of the clitoris during pregnancy is one of the most unpleasant phenomena that indicates the presence of a genitourinary infection or the development of bacterial vaginosis in a pregnant woman. In addition to itching, there may be a burning sensation in the clitoris. If such symptoms are found, the expectant mother should immediately consult a doctor, since itching combined with severe burning of the clitoris can be a sign of the presence of a sexually transmitted disease in the woman's body. This can be trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, ureaplasmosis, etc. For an accurate diagnosis, the doctor prescribes a thorough examination to the pregnant woman, which includes testing, in particular, to examine the smear on the vaginal microflora and identify the causes of the inflammatory process. Naturally, it is impossible to postpone a visit to the doctor in case of itching in the genital area, since this is risky for the fetus. Any infection can provoke a miscarriage, improper fetal formation, and also lead to premature birth.

A burning sensation in the clitoris may indicate the development of bacterial vaginosis - a gynecological disease, also accompanied by vaginal discharge with the smell of "rotten fish". Clitoral itching with gonorrhea is often accompanied by frequent urination and acute pain during urination. This dangerous disease is combined with gonorrheal urethritis - purulent vaginal discharge. At the same time, itching and burning in the vulva and clitoris are intensified. The inflammatory process most often affects almost all parts of the genitourinary system of a woman and is very dangerous during pregnancy.

Itching of the clitoris during pregnancy can occur with the development of trichomoniasis in combination with such unpleasant symptoms as a yellow-green frothy discharge from the vagina with a pungent odor, pain during sexual intercourse and urination.

With mycoplasmosis, a pregnant woman has pain in the lower abdomen, moderate burning and itching during urination. Often the disease causes inflammation of the uterus and appendages. Ureoplasmosis is accompanied by itching in the clitoris and genitals, as well as scanty clear vaginal discharge, pain during urination. A burning sensation in the clitoris, especially when urinating, can signal chlamydia. The most "heavy" diagnosis, the symptom of which is itching in the clitoris, is the early development of cancer of the genital organs.

During pregnancy, in the form of a manifestation of toxicosis, local pruritus can be observed, including in the clitoris. In any case, a pregnant woman needs to remember that this is just a symptom indicating a health problem. The main task of the doctor is to establish the cause of itching with the help of a thorough comprehensive examination of a pregnant woman.

Breast itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can occur in any part of the body, but most often expectant mothers are worried about itching of the abdomen and chest, since it is these parts of the body that undergo strong changes in the process of hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy.

Breast itching during pregnancy is a natural process that is associated with the fact that significant changes occur in the mammary glands during the bearing of a child: firstly, they increase in size and swell, and secondly, a gradual production of mother's milk takes place in the ducts of the mammary glands. (colostrum). It is this internal influx of fluid in the mammary glands that a pregnant woman feels like itching.

With breast augmentation during pregnancy, respectively, there is a stretching of the skin. This process can cause a woman "in position" a slight feeling of discomfort, including itching. It is important to note that in this case it is not recommended to scratch itchy places, because. breast skin is very thin, and scratching can cause irritation, redness, stretch marks. It should be noted that the skin of a woman carrying a child, in general, becomes much more sensitive. This factor provokes the occurrence of allergic reactions to cosmetics, synthetic clothing, washing powder, etc. To alleviate the condition with severe itching of the chest and prevent stretch marks (stretch marks), a pregnant woman should use creams and ointments with a moisturizing effect, specially created against stretch marks.

Itchy breasts during pregnancy can be caused by another factor - a tight bra. The compressed skin is often itchy and itchy. Due to the fact that the mammary glands of a pregnant woman gradually increase in size, they, accordingly, need new underwear - a larger bra. A regular change of underwear will eliminate such an unpleasant symptom as chest itching.

To relieve itching of the mammary glands during pregnancy, you can use some recommendations:

When taking a shower, it is necessary to use a minimum amount of detergents, and after that, moisturize the skin of the chest exclusively with natural products with a natural pH level.
Baths with the addition of herbal decoctions of chamomile, coltsfoot, yarrow and other medicinal plants to the water will be useful.
A pregnant woman should avoid heat, overheating in the sun, stuffy rooms, resulting in excessive sweating, which can cause itching.
Expectant mothers need to avoid getting deodorants on the skin of the breast, which can also cause dryness.
For washing clothes, it is recommended to use a neutral washing powder, best of all - for children.

Itching during pregnancy, which greatly disturbs the expectant mother, should be examined by a doctor. Perhaps the body needs vitamins, or this is how an allergy to some kind of irritant manifests itself. In any case, it is always best to consult an experienced medical professional.

Diagnosis of itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy needs an accurate diagnosis of the cause due to which this symptom manifested itself. If itching of any etiology occurs, the expectant mother should consult a doctor. For example, if a pregnant woman has itching in the perineal or genital area, she should tell her obstetrician-gynecologist about this problem, who will examine and conduct the necessary diagnostic studies to determine the cause of the itching:

If necessary, a gynecologist can prescribe additional consultations for a pregnant woman with a urologist, endocrinologist, therapist, psychiatrist. If itching in a pregnant woman is allergic in nature and is accompanied by skin rashes in the form of urticaria, the doctor needs to accurately diagnose the allergy in order to eliminate the main irritant (allergen), it can be a certain product, plant pollen, pet hair, etc. To diagnose allergies, skin tests, blood tests for allergens, immunological tests, etc. are carried out.

In most cases, the diagnosis of itching is the prerogative of a dermatologist, since establishing a diagnosis is a very difficult matter, especially in the case of pregnancy. Before contacting a dermatologist, it is important for a future mother not to take measures for self-treatment, i.e. it is impossible to lubricate the affected areas of the skin, treat them with medical means, since this can greatly complicate the diagnosis.

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Treating Itching During Pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy does not cause such inconvenience as, for example, pain, but a pregnant woman should not endure it. Itching, as well as pain, is a symptom of any organic disorders or negative reactions of the body, therefore, at the first manifestation of it, the expectant mother is advised to visit her doctor.

Treatment of itching during pregnancy is determined depending on the main cause of its occurrence. With mild itching, first of all, a woman is recommended to change clothes: a pregnant woman's underwear should be made from natural fabrics, preferably cotton. The use of perfumes, cosmetics and household chemicals (perfumes, creams, deodorants, soaps and shampoos containing chemicals and fragrances) should be limited. Expectant mothers should use hypoallergenic products, use a cool shower more often without the use of soap and gels, and after water procedures, moisturize the skin with a neutral cream or milk. Since the skin of a woman "in position" becomes more sensitive, it must be protected from heat, wind and direct sunlight.

It is important for a pregnant woman to take into account one rule: itchy places on the body should not be combed! This will provoke increased itching, the appearance of scratches, redness, irritation of already vulnerable skin. Keeping the body clean, light, comfortable clothing, optimal room temperature are factors that are very important for eliminating itching during pregnancy.

If the cause of skin itching during pregnancy is more serious and is caused by abnormalities in the functioning of internal organs, in particular the liver, the treatment of the expectant mother should be strictly under the supervision of the attending physician. Only tests and a medical examination will help to find out the causes of itching and accurately diagnose the disease. In no case should you self-medicate, since many drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy and can cause irreversible consequences for the fetus and harm the health of the expectant mother. Taking any medication should be started only after consulting an experienced doctor and solely on his recommendations.

Treatment of itching during pregnancy, caused by a malfunction of the liver (biliary dyskinesia, cholestasis, cholecystitis), consists in taking adsorbents (primarily activated charcoal, as well as its more complex analogues), as well as hepatoprotectors (drugs that help restoration of the liver) - No-shpy, Essentiale Forte, Karsila. At the same time, it is important to adjust the diet of a pregnant woman: it is necessary to remove dishes made from foods that are “heavy” for the liver (fried, spicy, fatty foods, smoked meats) from the diet. In case of allergies, the diet of the pregnant woman is also adjusted and antihistamines are prescribed. However, most antihistamines can only be used from mid-pregnancy if no alternative treatment is available.

If itching during pregnancy is caused by infections of the genitourinary system, the treatment of a pregnant woman usually consists in the use of medicinal suppositories, which have a local action mechanism and avoid the effect of the drug on the body as a whole. The genitals should be washed 2-3 times a day, while decoctions of medicinal plants can be used: chamomile, celandine, oak bark, St. John's wort, mint. Toilet soap should be abandoned, and with itching of the perineum, sitz baths in a decoction of sage or chamomile should be done.

In the treatment of skin itching during pregnancy, baths with a decoction of string or oatmeal, as well as birch or coniferous branches, help. At the same time, approximately a kilogram of branches should be boiled and boiled for 15 minutes, after which the finished broth should be filtered and diluted with a non-hot bath.

To prepare a herbal decoction for the purpose of using lotions, it is necessary to pour 2-3 tbsp. spoons of raw materials (chamomile, succession, St. John's wort) with 0.5 liters of boiling water, let it brew for several hours, and then strain and make lotions of itchy skin areas.

Itching during pregnancy needs timely elimination. To do this, you need to visit a doctor in time, undergo a diagnosis and identify the causes of this symptom. Each expectant mother should not neglect these recommendations, because the life of the baby depends only on herself and her actions.

Prevention of itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can be prevented by following the advice and recommendations of medical professionals.

Prevention of itching during pregnancy refers to the application of measures that are primarily aimed at careful hygiene of the pregnant woman and optimization of her lifestyle. The following preventive recommendations can be noted that will help expectant mothers prevent or eliminate itching that occurs during pregnancy.

Constantly monitor personal hygiene, take showers or warm baths more often without the use of scented detergents.
Keep the perineal area dry and clean.
Avoid cosmetics and perfumes.
For laundry, use a phosphate-free neutral detergent.
Use clothing exclusively made from natural hygroscopic fabrics, which should not restrict movement.
Use moisturizers (creams, lotions, gels, oils) with a neutral pH for sensitive skin.
Do not leave the house in extreme heat, avoid stuffy rooms, wind, scorching sun.
Drink enough water to maintain optimal skin balance.
Follow a personalized balanced diet.
Do not self-medicate, if itching occurs, be sure to visit a medical facility and consult a doctor.

Itching during pregnancy is less likely to appear if a woman undergoes a medical examination and passes tests for hidden infections even before pregnancy is planned. It is also important to be examined by highly specialized medical specialists to identify possible chronic diseases and eliminate them before conception.

Skin itching during pregnancy is not a very common phenomenon. Most often, the skin begins to itch unbearably (as after mosquito bites) in the evening, closer to night, which can provoke insomnia and generally worsen a woman’s mood. Usually itching does not harm the baby and goes away after childbirth. However, it is still worth consulting with a gynecologist and dermatologist.

What does it come from?

The cause of itching during pregnancy in most cases is a violation of the liver: the production and outflow of bile, a general increase in the level of bilirubin in the blood. This is due to a hormonal failure in the body of the future mother - a violation of the synthesis of estrogens, as well as due to fetal pressure on the bile ducts. The fatty acids produced in large quantities enter the woman's skin with the bloodstream and irritate the nerve endings, causing excruciating itching. Similar phenomena associated with stagnation of bile in the body can make themselves felt in the third trimester of pregnancy. Sometimes itching is accompanied by such dangerous diseases as diabetes mellitus.

Who is predisposed?

Itching during pregnancy is usually observed in women with chronic diseases of the biliary tract and with high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Such future mothers need to regularly (at least once a month) do a biochemical blood test to exclude toxic effects on liver cells.

How to fight?

A pregnant woman should tell her gynecologist about the discomfort associated with skin itching. In some cases, itching can be a sign of the development of such a dangerous disease as hepatitis. The doctor will conduct appropriate examinations. If, according to an objective examination, itching does not pose any danger, it is often possible to get rid of discomfort simply by following a diet aimed at lowering cholesterol levels, limiting the intake of fatty, spicy and salty foods that prevent the liver from coping with the function of bile secretion, as well as drinking plenty of water - it is necessary to eliminate dry skin. If the diet does not help, the doctor may prescribe choleretic drugs suitable for pregnant women.

It is important to find the cause of the bothersome itching, eliminating a whole group of skin diseases that can occur during pregnancy.

Itching in the abdomen and chest

This itch is worth mentioning separately. As a rule, the skin on the abdomen or chest itches in the second and third trimesters due to its stretching, because it is these parts of the body that increase in volume during pregnancy. In this case, it is very important not to scratch the skin - this will lead to the appearance of stretch marks, which, unlike itching, will not go away after childbirth. Regularly use moisturizing creams, special products for stretch marks, do a light massage of the chest and abdomen with circular movements of your fingers and do not take hot showers.

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