Dealing with itchy, bumpy skin during pregnancy? Here is everything you need to know about Prurigo of Pregnancy and how to find relief!

Expecting a baby is an amazing and special journey. At the same time, you might notice some new health changes along the way. Have you noticed tiny, red, extremely itchy bumps appearing on your arms or legs? You are not alone in having this. This common skin condition is known in medicine as prurigo of pregnancy.

When you see new bumps on your skin, it is normal to feel worried. Fortunately, this condition is usually harmless for both you and your growing baby. Read on to learn what causes these bumps, how to soothe your skin safely, and when to reach out to your doctor.

What is Prurigo of Pregnancy?

Simply put, prurigo of pregnancy is a skin condition that causes itchy bumps during pregnancy. Doctors sometimes call this condition papular dermatitis of pregnancy. The best news is that this condition does not cause serious health problems for you or your baby.

These bumps can start at any time during your pregnancy. However, they most often appear in your second or third trimester, which is after your first three months. Sometimes, the itching and bumps can even stay for a few weeks after your baby is born. Your doctor can look at your skin, check your symptoms, and recommend the right care plan.

What Do These Bumps Look Like?

The bumps from prurigo of pregnancy often look like bug bites or small acne spots. Sometimes, the top of each bump may look a bit crusty or scaly. In terms of color, they often appear pink, red, or even slightly purple.

Some bumps might form right around hair follicles, and they can be very itchy and uncomfortable. Think of them as small spots that can be as tiny as a pencil tip or as big as a pencil eraser. Many times, these small bumps group together in clusters on your skin.

Where Do These Bumps Usually Start?

Prurigo of pregnancy bumps most often show up on the back of your elbows or the back of your knees. These are areas where your skin naturally bends around your joints. However, you can also get them on your shoulders, arms, legs, and even your stomach.

How Common is Prurigo of Pregnancy?

This skin condition affects about one in every 300 pregnant women. As mentioned earlier, it can start at any time during pregnancy, but doctors see it most often between weeks 13 and 40. For many mothers, the condition may linger for a short time after delivery.

Difference Between Prurigo and PUPPP.

Another common skin condition during pregnancy is called PUPPP, which stands for pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy. In fact, PUPPP is the most frequent skin rash during pregnancy. About one in 160 pregnant women will develop PUPPP.

If you are expecting twins or triplets, your chance of getting PUPPP is higher. PUPPP also causes itchy, discolored bumps or patches on the skin. However, PUPPP bumps usually show up on areas where your skin stretches the most, such as your belly, buttocks, and thighs. PUPPP is most common during the final months of pregnancy.

On the other hand, the prurigo of pregnancy we are discussing can appear on almost any part of your body. The most important thing to remember is that neither of these conditions will harm your baby.

Symptoms of Prurigo of Pregnancy.

Prurigo of pregnancy creates small, discolored bumps on your skin. Here are the main signs to look for:

• Your skin feels very itchy and uncomfortable.
• The bumps look pink, red, or purple.
• The top of the bump may have a tiny crust or scale.
• They look similar to insect bites or small acne pimples.
• They often group together and can spread across large areas of your body.

What Causes Prurigo of Pregnancy?

To be honest, medical experts still do not know the exact cause of prurigo of pregnancy. Even so, the condition causes no complications, and mothers go on to have healthy pregnancies. Some medical studies suggest that this skin condition might relate to certain body changes:

• Cholestasis of pregnancy, which is a liver condition that affects bile flow.
• Changes in your immune system while you are expecting.
• Allergies to certain foods or environmental factors.
• Natural increases in your total blood volume.

How Doctors Diagnose Prurigo of Pregnancy.

A doctor diagnoses prurigo of pregnancy by performing a physical exam and looking closely at your skin. Be ready to tell your doctor when the itching started and what symptoms you feel. Your doctor might order a routine urine test or blood test.

These tests help make sure you do not have cholestasis of pregnancy or an autoimmune condition. Ruling out other conditions gives you and your doctor peace of mind.

How Doctors Treat Prurigo of Pregnancy.

Doctors have several safe options to treat and manage prurigo of pregnancy. Treatment choices may include:

• Oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, to help control the itching.
• Hydrocortisone cream or ointment to calm inflamed skin.
• Topical products containing benzoyl peroxide in certain cases.
• Lotions that contain cooling menthol ingredients.
• Traditional calamine lotion to soothe irritated areas.

Home Remedies to Ease Prurigo Symptoms.

Your doctor will recommend medical treatments to help reduce your symptoms. In addition to medical advice, you can try these simple home care tips:

• Apply an unscented lotion or moisturizer to your skin several times a day. Dry skin can make itching much worse.
• Wear loose clothing that does not rub against your skin. Tight clothes can trap sweat and increase irritation.
• Choose natural fabrics like cotton or silk. Synthetic fabrics can sometimes cause allergic skin reactions.
• Follow your doctor instructions carefully to keep your skin calm and comfortable.

How to Prevent Prurigo of Pregnancy.

Right now, there is no proven way to prevent prurigo of pregnancy. It is a natural condition that can happen to anyone. However, some studies suggest that if you have a history of eczema, your chance of developing prurigo might be slightly higher.

What Happens After Prurigo of Pregnancy?

Prurigo of pregnancy usually clears up quickly after your baby is born. Even so, some mothers might experience mild itching for a few weeks postpartum. If you plan to have more children in the future, this skin condition could return during your next pregnancy.

Work with your doctor to build a relief plan so you can stay comfortable while the bumps fade. If the itching keeps you awake at night or causes emotional stress, let your doctor know right away so they can help you rest.

Final Thoughts to Keep in Mind.

As you can see, prurigo of pregnancy is a common and usually harmless skin condition that fades after childbirth. Always remember that reporting any new rash or bump to your doctor is an important part of a healthy pregnancy.