Prurigo gestationis is a skin condition that causes itchy red bumps during pregnancy, but it does not harm the mother or fetus. It can be treated with topical corticosteroids and antihistamines, and usually resolves after pregnancy. Pregnant women should seek medical advice before treating any rash.
Prurigo gestationis, or prurigo of pregnancy (PP), is a skin condition that occurs during pregnancy. It results in red, very itchy bumps forming on the abdomen, legs, arms, and buttocks. The cause of the condition is unclear and must be differentiated from other more serious skin conditions. Although PP is uncomfortable, it does not cause harm to the mother or fetus. It also tends to respond well to simple treatments and usually resolves completely soon after pregnancy ends.
Doctors sometimes classify prurigo gestationis as early-onset or late-onset. Early onset starts in the second trimester at about 20 weeks, while late onset of PP could occur at about 34-35 weeks. In truth, PP can occur anytime after the 20th week and is most likely to occur between 25-35 weeks.
As the condition emerges, small red bumps, usually no more than 0.2-0.4 inches (0.5-1 cm) in diameter tend to develop on the belly. They can be abundant and spread to other parts of the body. The bumps are characterized by their itchy or itchy nature. Their biggest risk is that they can cause scratches to the affected person, which could lead to a skin infection.
Doctors aren’t clear why prurigo gestationis occurs and often diagnose the disorder by ruling out more serious skin conditions associated with pregnancy. For example, pemphigoid or herpes gestationis causes itchy blisters and is thought to be an autoimmune condition. With treatment, it can also resolve, but it is clinically important to note because it can recur in future pregnancies. PP should be further distinguished from warts or skin lesions caused by viruses or infections which may pose a greater danger to the fetus.
As stated, the condition is usually easy to treat. Topical corticosteroids can help with itching and inflammation and are of little risk to the fetus. Several oral antihistamines are also safe to use during pregnancy and can cause a reduction in itching sensations. Furthermore, the disease is almost always confined to pregnancy and tends to resolve itself within a few weeks or months after pregnancy. Most women recover completely within a month of the end of pregnancy, and it is extremely rare for PP to continue three months after delivery.
Even though prurigo gestationis is not a serious disease, doctors advise pregnant women to report any type of rash during pregnancy. Pregnant women are also advised not to attempt to treat a rash without first getting a diagnosis and medical advice. Not all treatments, even over-the-counter treatments, are safe for pregnant moms or their babies.
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