Itchy abdomen in pregnancy - what could it be?

Are you pregnant and constantly struggling with an itchy abdomen? You are sure to be wondering what is causing this, and if there are any cures for this horrible itching. There are several probable causes of an itchy abdomen, and believe it or not, the itching can sometimes indicate a serious medical problem. Let's take a look at what might be causing the itching you are suffering from.

Stretching skin

Every pregnant woman's abdominal skin has some stretching to do! As the skin stretches and tightens, it will be dry and sometimes itchy. Try to alleviate the problem with hydrating creams, and also stay hydrated in general. Normal itchiness should not take over your life, and should disappear with some time and help from moisturizers.

PUPPP

PUPPP is a funny-looking abbreviation for a condition called Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. PUPPP starts as stretch marks and generally begins at 35 weeks gestation. PUPPP is extremely itchy and accompanied by red spots and sometimes wheals. PUPPP is a pregnancy form of urticaria, also known as hives. PUPPP can be treated with topical steroid creams and relieved by anti-itch creams, but will go away permanently after you give birth to your baby.

Cholestasis

Cholestasis is another possible cause of abdominal itching during pregnancy. It is related to problems with liver function, and other symptoms of the condition include loss of appetite, vomiting and nausea, extreme fatigue, and low energy and in some cases jaundice. Talk to your doctor about these symptoms as soon as possible if you have them. Cholestasis is pregnancy related and will go away after you have your baby. It affects around one in 50 pregnancies and can be treated with medications. If you are not sure how to interpret your symptoms, and whether your itchy abdomen is normal or caused by one of the two conditions mentioned above, please talk to your healthcare provider.