The surging hormones of pregnancy cause many changes in a woman's body. Nausea and fatigue are the most common side effects of pregnancy, but itching is a real and uncomfortable symptom that bothers many mothers-to-be. Most itching is not serious, but a woman should report it to her doctor or midwife nonetheless. Mothers-to-be may rest assured that the itching subsides with the conclusion of the pregnancy.
Cholestasis
Cholestasis is a rare and serious condition in which the liver ceases to process bile. During pregnancy, excess hormones are to blame, and bile begins to spill into the mother's bloodstream, potentially harming the fetus. Itching caused by cholestasis is particularly intense and is sometimes accompanied by dark urine, fatigue, light-colored bowel movements, loss of appetite and depression, according to the American Pregnancy Association. A diagnosis of cholestasis is confirmed by blood test. Treatment involves medication, vitamin K supplements and extra fetal non-stress tests and blood tests.
PUPP
The intense itching associated with PUPP, or pruritic uticarial papules and plagues, is similar to that of cholestasis, but the condition is much less severe. A pregnant woman who has PUPP will have red, pimply bumps on her abdomen, thighs, buttocks and extremities, according to pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears. The condition will not harm the fetus and is easily treated with an antihistamine.
Yeast Infection
Itching in the vaginal area that is accompanied by heavy discharge and odor likely indicates a yeast infection. Pregnant women are more susceptible to yeast infections, according to Mothering's "Common Concerns of the Second Trimester," and they are relatively harmless. Relief may come from the elimination of sugar and white flour from the diet, as well as copious consumption of probiotics.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are slightly raised, lacy or spidery lines that occur on a pregnant woman's stomach, thighs, buttocks or breasts. They may be white or purple in color, but they almost always itch. Almost 90 percent of pregnant woman will get stretch marks, according to the American Pregnancy Association. They never completely disappear, but they do fade and the itching does subside once the body starts to regain its normal shape. Vitamin E or sweet almond oil may help keep the skin moisturized and control the itching.
Eczema
Eczema is an itchy red rash that sometimes bleeds, but it is not serious. If a woman suffered from eczema before her pregnancy, the condition will either disappear or become more intense during her pregnancy, according to Heidi Murkoff, author of "What to Expect When You're Expecting." The unlucky ones may find that topical steroids and antihistamines bring relief, as does the liberal application of moisturizer.
