Itching during pregnancy: causes and solutions

Here’s one of the lesser-known discomforts of pregnancy: itching. From simple dry skin to cholestasis, itching during pregnancy is common. What causes it? When should you be concerned?

Itching during pregnancy: let’s break it down.

What is an HRP during pregnancy?

There are many causes of itching during pregnancy, most of them linked to the hormonal changes happening in your body.

Hormonal changes and their impact

During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations are inevitable and can have significant effects on your skin. Pregnancy hormones like estrogen and progesterone can cause dry skin and, as a result, itching. This phenomenon is often worsened by increased sweating and a higher blood flow to the skin, which can lead to irritation.

Due to these hormonal changes, your skin may become more sensitive to everyday products such as certain creams, soap, or even laundry detergent, causing redness or skin rashes. That’s why during pregnancy, healthcare professionals often recommend the most natural products possible (and thus less irritating).

Skin conditions

Several pregnancy-specific skin reactions (often hormone-induced) can cause itching. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, a liver condition, is one of the most serious, causing intense itching, especially on the belly, palms of the hands, and feet, often without any visible rash. These symptoms require urgent medical consultation due to the risk of complications (sometimes requiring labor induction).

Less serious but still uncomfortable, eczema and atopic dermatitis may cause itching during pregnancy, along with redness. In these cases, we recommend you see a dermatologist.

Stretch marks, common among pregnant women, usually appear on the belly, thighs, and breasts as the skin stretches—and they can also cause itching.

Infections and yeast

When you’re pregnant, you’re more likely to develop infections due to hormonal changes that affect your vaginal flora and immune system. These infections, often asymptomatic, can sometimes cause burning and itching. Yeast infections are also common during pregnancy and can cause itching and redness around the vulva and vagina.

Want to learn more? Feel free to download the May app, where you’ll find plenty of resources to support and guide you throughout your pregnancy.

When should you consult for itching during pregnancy?

Itching during pregnancy is often mild and usually only requires some simple changes to your daily habits (switching body care products, moisturizing your skin, choosing breathable clothing fabrics…). However, certain symptoms should prompt you to seek medical advice quickly to rule out complications.

• Intense and persistent itching: If you experience severe itching, especially at night, on your palms, feet, or belly, without a visible rash, it could be cholestasis of pregnancy. This second- and third-trimester condition requires immediate medical attention as it can affect your liver and lead to complications for both you and your baby. A blood test will confirm the diagnosis.
• Infections and yeast infections: If you notice redness, burning, or itching around the vagina or vulva, it could be a sign of infection or a yeast issue. A consultation with a gynecologist or midwife will help determine the right treatment and prevent worsening symptoms.
• Skin rashes: If a rash appears on your belly, back, or limbs—especially if it looks like hives—it can be concerning. Even though often harmless, such rashes may require treatment to relieve discomfort and prevent excessive scratching that could damage the skin.
• Scabies: If you and others around you are itching—especially at night—it could be a parasitic infection called scabies. Itching tends to occur between the fingers, on wrists, elbow creases, inner thighs, buttocks… Scabies can be treated during pregnancy, so it’s important to seek care!

In all cases, don’t hesitate to discuss your symptoms with your doctor or midwife during your prenatal checkups. They can advise on intimate hygiene best practices, suggest appropriate creams to relieve dryness or irritation, and refer you to a dermatologist if needed.

Treatments to relieve pregnancy-related itching

When dealing with pregnancy-related itching, several treatment options are available.

Medical treatments

After your consultation, your doctor, midwife, or gynecologist may prescribe a medical treatment to relieve your itching. The treatment will of course depend on the cause of your symptoms.

• Topical corticosteroid creams: If you have a rash, these creams may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching.
• Antihistamines: These are usually prescribed for allergic reactions and are best taken in the evening as they tend to cause drowsiness.
• Antifungal suppositories and creams: To treat vaginal yeast infections, these are commonly prescribed together.
• Treatment for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: If your itching is caused by this condition, medication to neutralize bile acids may be required. Close medical monitoring will be recommended to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.

Natural relief methods

If your itching does not require medication (which must be assessed by your healthcare provider—itching should never be taken lightly), some natural tips can help relieve the discomfort.

• Moisturize regularly: Use rich moisturizers with natural ingredients like aloe vera or shea butter to soothe your skin and reduce irritation.
• Take a lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal: These baths are known for their calming effects on itchy skin and may be especially helpful for pregnant women dealing with eczema or psoriasis.
• Use gentle soaps: Use pH-neutral soap for intimate hygiene to avoid disturbing your vaginal flora (already affected by hormonal changes) and to prevent yeast infections.

And finally, try not to scratch! Easier said than done, but avoiding it helps prevent worsening the irritation or causing secondary infections.

Preventing itching during pregnancy

Itching during pregnancy can be especially uncomfortable, but some preventive measures can help reduce the chances of it occurring. Here are a few:

• Use fragrance-free moisturizers to keep your skin—often drier than usual—well hydrated.
• Avoid vaginal douching and use a mild, pH-neutral soap to clean the vulva.
• Choose cotton underwear to allow your skin to breathe, reducing irritation and redness. Avoid tight clothing to help prevent infections.
• Limit sugary foods (as much as possible), which may promote infections and yeast. Add probiotics to your diet to support a balanced microbiome.
• Avoid scented products (soaps, lotions…) that may irritate mucous membranes and cause itching.
• Stress can worsen itching. Try to reduce stress as much as possible by integrating relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation into your daily routine.
• See your gynecologist or midwife regularly if you’re prone to infections or persistent itching. Regular checkups can help detect and treat problems before they worsen.

Itching during pregnancy is quite common and can have multiple causes. In any case, don’t hesitate to consult or ask questions to the May team’s professionals if you have any doubts.

**

Photos: Tonefotografia | snegok1967 | dvatri | wirestock

This text was translated from French by an artificial intelligence. The information, advice, and sources it contains comply with French standards and may therefore not apply to your situation. Make sure to complement this reading by visiting the May US/UK app and consulting the healthcare professionals who are supporting you.