Expecting a baby is of course wonderful, but could we please skip those pregnancy ailments? A common irritating pregnancy ailment is itching. What can you do to relieve that itch? And are there things you can do to prevent it?
According to Huidarts.nl, about 1 in 5 pregnant women suffer from pregnancy itch. This form of itching is a collective name for different types of itching that occur during pregnancy. Usually it is not serious and does not harm your child.
What is Pregnancy Itch?
Pregnancy itch is often caused by the growth of your belly, breasts, buttocks and legs. The skin stretches, causing the epidermis and subcutaneous connective tissue to tear a little. This causes purple stripes on the skin, which are also called stretch marks. The itching often starts before you see the stripes. If your skin starts to itch, it actually means that your skin can no longer handle the stretch. In addition, bumps and blisters can also occur.
Other causes
The itching during your pregnancy can also be caused by your skin being dry or if you suffer from eczema. Furthermore, better blood circulation can cause you to suffer from itching. You then get warm faster and start sweating, which causes the itch.
PUPPP
Some women experience itchy bumps on their abdomen (PUPPP) during pregnancy. This skin condition often occurs in the third trimester. The bumps can also appear in other places besides your stomach, except on your face. Very annoying, but luckily it can’t hurt you or your baby. Unfortunately, it is not known what causes these bumps.
Read also: Are you pregnant? Why oral care is extra important
Galstuwing
Another reason for the itching can be bile congestion. The transport of bile in the liver is too slow. Bile acids then end up in your blood. As a result, you can suffer from itching in the last three months, especially on your palms and soles of your feet. This is not dangerous for you, but it can have consequences for your child. So always contact your doctor or midwife if you suffer from these complaints.
What can you do against pregnancy itch?
The advice not to scratch is of course very difficult to follow, but try to do it as little as possible. It can help to keep your nails extra short, so that you don’t cause wounds by scratching. In addition, do not shower too hot, wear cotton clothing and do not use soap or shampoo with perfume. It is also good to keep the skin supple with an ointment or greasy cream.
When to see a doctor or midwife?
Does the itch bother you a lot, does it occur all over your body or do red bumps, blisters or blisters arise? Then it is important to contact your doctor or midwife.
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Bron: Huidarts.nl, Thuisarts
Foto: Getty Images
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2023-08-31 15:08:21
#Suffering #pregnancy #itch
