hives in pregnancy

Overview

Hives, also called urticaria, are raised, itchy bumps or welts on the skin. They can appear suddenly, look pink or red, and often change shape or move from place to place over hours. In pregnancy, hives are common and usually harmless, but they can be very uncomfortable.

Yes. Many pregnant women experience hives or itchy skin at some point, especially in the third trimester.

Anyone who is pregnant can get hives. You are more likely to have them if you have had hives, eczema, other allergies before, or if they run in your family.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Raised pink or red welts that can be small or large
• Itching, which can be intense and sometimes worsens at night
• Welts that come and go and may change shape or move across the skin
• A warm or burning feeling on the affected areas

Symptoms in children

• Children can also get hives from many causes, and the welts look similar to those in adults.
• Pregnancy hives are not passed on to your baby or children in the household.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, hives may be linked to other health conditions or medicines.
• If you are pregnant and over 35, the symptoms are the same, but you should mention any other medical conditions to your doctor.

Causes

Main causes

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy
• Heat and sweating
• Pressure on your skin from your growing bump or tight clothing
• Stress or strong emotions
• Allergens such as pollen, pet fur, or latex
• Certain foods or food additives
• Infections such as a cold or stomach bug
• Sometimes no specific cause can be found

Risk factors

• A past history of hives, eczema, or allergies
• A family history of hives or allergic conditions
• Being in your third trimester
• Having had hives during a previous pregnancy

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any of the emergency symptoms, call your local emergency number immediately.
• If you have hives along with a high fever, severe headache, abdominal pain, or sudden swelling, seek medical care the same day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• See your midwife or doctor if hives last for more than one week.
• Make an appointment if the itching stops you sleeping or feels unbearable.

Diagnosis

Your doctor or midwife will look at the rash and ask about your symptoms, what you ate, did, or felt before it appeared, and your medical history.

Tests that may be done

• In most cases, no tests are needed.
• If your hives are persistent, your doctor may suggest blood tests to check for thyroid problems or other health conditions.
• If a severe allergy is suspected, you may be referred to an allergy clinic for further checks.

What to expect at your appointment

You can expect a quick examination of your skin. The doctor may press on a welt to see if it disappears, and they will discuss your triggers. They will recommend safe treatment options that fit your pregnancy.

Treatment

Treatment for hives in pregnancy focuses on calming the itching and avoiding things that trigger it. Some medicines that are often used for hives may not be recommended during pregnancy, so always ask your doctor, midwife, or pharmacist before taking anything.

Self-care at home

• Apply a cool, damp cloth to itchy areas for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Take cool or lukewarm baths rather than hot showers.
• Wear loose, soft cotton clothing.
• Use a fragrance-free moisturiser or a pharmacist-approved soothing lotion.
• Avoid tight clothing, heavy blankets, and overheating.
• Try relaxation exercises or rest to reduce stress.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe a pregnancy-safe allergy medicine, commonly called an antihistamine, to reduce itching. They might also advise a topical cream or ointment. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice carefully and never exceed the recommended amount.

Living with this condition

Keep a simple diary of when hives flare up to spot your personal triggers. You can continue your usual daily activities and gentle exercise as long as you feel well. Hives may come and go, so have a cool sponge or cloth handy to soothe unexpected itching.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay cool and drink plenty of water.
• Sleep in a comfortably cool room and use light bedding.
• Avoid known allergens such as strong perfumes or pet dander if they trigger you.
• Find gentle ways to relax, like breathing exercises or a pregnancy yoga class.

Diet and exercise

There is no specific diet to prevent hives, but eating a balanced pregnancy diet is important. Some people notice hives after certain foods, particularly spicy dishes, alcohol, or aged cheeses, but this is individual. Gentle exercise like walking or swimming is fine – just avoid overheating.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Coping with an itchy rash can be stressful, and you may feel anxious about your baby’s health. These feelings are completely normal. Talk about them with your midwife or doctor – they can offer reassurance and suggest further support if you need it. If you ever feel overwhelmed or have thoughts about harming yourself or your baby, call your local emergency number or a mental health crisis line right away.

Prevention

Hives cannot always be prevented, but you can lower the chances by avoiding things you know trigger you, staying cool, using fragrance-free skincare, and managing your stress. If hives do appear, they usually settle within a few weeks.

Complications

If left untreated

• Scratching too much can break your skin and lead to a bacterial infection, which may need treatment.
• Severe itching can disturb your sleep and make everyday life harder.
• In very rare cases, hives may be a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs care, such as a liver or thyroid problem.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good. Most pregnancy-related hives go away on their own after a few days or weeks, and they do not harm you or your baby. With simple self-care and advice from your healthcare team, you can manage the symptoms comfortably until they settle.

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