Are you an expectant mother seeking relief for her itchy skin during pregnancy? Pregnancy eczema, also called atopic eruption of pregnancy (AEP), is a common problem experienced by pregnant women. Amid the metabolic, immunological and hormonal changes your body goes through during pregnancy, it is important not to overlook the possible appearance of skin problems such as a new rash or a small bump as it could be pregnancy eczema.

 

Revealing skin changes during pregnancy

Pregnancy triggers various physiological changes, some of which are specific to pregnancy-related skin problems. The complex interplay of factors in your body during pregnancy can lead to the development of eczema. To relieve itching and discomfort, it is important to understand the specifics of pregnancy-related skin problems.

 

Deciphering atopic eruption in pregnancy (AEP)

The term pregnancy eczema encompasses three different diseases:

1. atopic dermatitis (eczema): It is characterized by lesions that often appear in the first or second trimester. These lesions usually appear on the neck, ankles or abdomen.
2. Prurigo of pregnancy: This disease is characterized by grouped, excoriated papules that resemble small bumps and often appear on the limbs and trunk.
3. Pruritic follicle follicle of pregnancy: This condition, which typically occurs in the second or third trimester, is characterized by erythematous follicular papules that resemble acne.

 

Triggers of pregnancy eczema

Just as your baby's name is unique, pregnancy eczema is as individual as the person who has it. Identifying and eliminating triggers can be a complex process. Potential irritants such as soaps, fragrances, fabrics and allergens can lead to contact dermatitis.

Therefore, figuring out exactly what your triggers are and eliminating them can be a long and complicated process. Some expectant mothers experience contact dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis, on the other hand, involves more complicated sensitivities such as environmental allergens, food allergies, and hormonal changes. Likewise, those wild hormones (from growing a little human) can cause their skin to react with inflammation and itchiness. It's important to navigate this environment to reduce flare-ups and find effective relief.

 

Probability of developing an AEP

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of an atopic outbreak in pregnancy, including a history of:

• eczema
• asthma
• Sensitive, easily irritated skin
• Allergic rhinitis, including hay fever and house dust mites-Allergies
• Food allergies

 

5 simple tips to relieve pregnancy eczema

First of all, it sounds like we're pointing out the obvious, but: Don't scratch! Do your best not to scratch, as this can further irritate your skin, increase the risk of skin infections, and damage your sensitive skin. Scratching makes the itch worse.

 

1. Apply cold packs

Apply an ice pack or cool, wet compress to the itchy areas for five to ten minutes, or until the itching subsides. We all know there's no way to describe how soothing an ice cold towel feels on inflamed skin, whether it's itchy, sunburned, or it's a hot day outside - it's heaven! If you put your body lotion in the fridge, it's like magic.

2. Moisturize daily

In general, pregnant women should moisturize their skin two to three times a day. This is important to repair the skin because scratching it breaks down the skin barrier, making it impossible for the skin to absorb moisture. After showering or bathing, use a fragrance-free body lotion and a natural, fragrance-free, soothing body wash.

3. Take an oatmeal bath

You can buy oatmeal baths at the pharmacy or make them yourself. Oatmeal is very soothing for irritated skin. You can also mix the oatmeal and put it in the fridge to cool, then apply it to your stomach like a mask.

4. Drink enough water

Water is important for healthy skin, but too much can be bad. Water also doesn't directly moisturize the skin – dry skin isn't necessarily a sign of dehydration. Drink enough to keep you well hydrated (you may need more during pregnancy).

5. Wear light cotton clothing

Opt for 100% cotton or other natural fabrics that allow the skin to breathe. Also pay attention to your bedding - we spend a lot of time sleeping against fabrics that can irritate sensitive skin.

 

Our recommended treatments for pregnancy eczema

The best-selling product against pregnancy eczema is our Waikura Manuka Body Lotion. Made with natural ingredients that soothe and repair dry, irritated and itchy skin, it's perfect for growing bellies and babies' sensitive skin.

 

Would you like to know more?

If your pregnancy eczema gets worse, there's a lot you can do to help ease symptoms. Visit the recommended websites for more information, or join a private Facebook-support group for more support.

This is especially important now because some conditions that cause itchy skin during pregnancy can affect your baby's well-being and require special monitoring or treatment. For example, severe itching without a rash can be a symptom of cholestasis in pregnancy.

If you would like to know more about specific skin problems during pregnancy, please consult your doctor. 

 

source

https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/atopic-eruption-of-pregnancy/