Impetigo in pregnancy

Overview

Impetigo is a common skin infection caused by bacteria. It causes red sores that burst and form a golden or honey-colored crust. It is very contagious, but easy to treat.

Yes, impetigo is a very common skin infection, especially in young children. It can occur in pregnancy too.

Anyone can get impetigo, but it is most common in children aged 2 to 5. Pregnant women can get it just like anyone else. It does not pose a specific risk to the baby, but it is important to treat it safely during pregnancy.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Red sores that quickly burst and ooze fluid
• Honey-colored crusts that form over the sores
• Itching around the sores
• Sores often on the face, hands, or other exposed skin

Symptoms in children

• Sores often appear on the face, especially around the nose and mouth
• Can spread quickly to other parts of the body if scratched

Symptoms in older adults

• Less common, but symptoms are the same as in other adults

Causes

Main causes

• Bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes) entering the skin through a cut, scrape, or insect bite

Risk factors

• Warm, humid weather
• Poor hygiene or crowded living conditions
• Close contact with someone who has impetigo
• Skin conditions like eczema or scabies that break the skin

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a fever along with the sores
• If the redness spreads quickly beyond the sore area

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice sores that look like impetigo, especially during pregnancy

Diagnosis

Your doctor can usually diagnose impetigo just by looking at the sores. The appearance of honey-colored crusts is very typical.

Tests that may be done

• Sometimes a swab of the fluid from a sore is sent to a lab to confirm the bacteria type.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will examine the sores and ask about your symptoms. If a swab is taken, it may take a few days for results. Treatment can start before the results come back.

Treatment

Impetigo is treated with antibiotics to kill the bacteria. During pregnancy, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic that is safe. Treatment helps clear the infection faster and reduces the risk of spreading it.

Self-care at home

• Keep the affected area clean and gently wash it with mild soap and water.
• Cover the sores with a bandage or gauze to prevent scratching and spreading.
• Wash your hands often, especially after touching the sores.
• Do not share towels, bedding, or clothing until the sores heal.
• Trim your nails and avoid scratching.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic cream or ointment for mild cases. For more widespread infections, oral antibiotics (taken by mouth) may be needed. Always complete the full course even if the sores look better. Your doctor will choose the safest option during pregnancy.

Living with this condition

You can continue your normal daily activities, but it is important to avoid close contact with others until the sores are no longer contagious (usually 24 to 48 hours after starting antibiotics). Keep the sores covered and wash your hands frequently.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep the skin around the sores clean and dry.
• Change towels and bed linens daily.
• Use separate towels and washcloths from other family members.
• Take showers instead of baths to reduce spreading.

Diet and exercise

No specific diet is needed, but eating a healthy balanced diet helps your immune system. Gentle exercise is fine as long as you cover any sores.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Having a contagious skin infection can feel embarrassing or stressful. Remember that impetigo is very common and easily treated. Talk to your healthcare provider or midwife if you feel worried or anxious.

Prevention

Good hygiene is the best way to prevent impetigo. Wash your hands regularly, clean any cuts or scrapes immediately with soap and water, and avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors. If someone in your household has impetigo, try to keep their things separate.

Complications

If left untreated

• The infection can spread to other parts of your body, causing more sores.
• Rarely, it can lead to a more serious skin infection called cellulitis.
• In very rare cases, the bacteria can cause kidney inflammation (post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis).

Long-term outlook

With proper treatment, impetigo usually clears up within 7 to 10 days. It rarely causes any long-term problems, even during pregnancy. Most women recover fully without any lasting effects on their health or their baby.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.