rash in pregnancy

Overview

A rash is any change in your skin's color, texture, or appearance. During pregnancy, you may notice itchy spots, red patches, hives, or dry areas. Most rashes are annoying but harmless, while a few can be signs of a condition that needs medical care.

Yes. It is very common for pregnant women to develop a rash or other skin changes at some stage. Many women experience mild itchiness or red bumps on the belly, and this is usually nothing to worry about.

Pregnant women of any age can get a rash. Some rashes are more likely in a first pregnancy, in women carrying twins or more, or in women who already have sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Itchy skin, especially around the belly and thighs
• Red, bumpy patches on the tummy
• Small, raised bumps or hives
• Dry or scaly skin
• Blister-like blisters (rare, but can occur in certain pregnancy rashes)
• Intense itching on the hands and feet (may indicate a liver problem)

Causes

Main causes

• Hormonal changes that affect your skin's sensitivity
• Stretching skin as the baby grows
• Increased blood flow to the skin
• Overheating or sweating, especially in warm weather
• Reactions to skincare products, soaps, or washing powder
• Specific pregnancy-related conditions such as polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP), a harmless itchy rash, or intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a liver condition that needs monitoring

Risk factors

• Being in your first pregnancy
• Carrying twins, triplets, or more
• Having had eczema, psoriasis, or other skin conditions
• Being overweight before pregnancy
• Expecting during hot, humid months

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your rash is severe, widespread, or appears suddenly
• If you have blisters, open sores, or a rash that breaks out around your eyes or mouth
• If the itching is unbearable or interferes with sleep
• If you notice any other symptoms like fever, chills, dizziness, or stomach pain

Book a routine appointment if:

• If a rash lasts longer than a few days or keeps coming back
• If you have any concern about a change in your skin
• You can also mention a rash at your next antenatal appointment

Diagnosis

To find out what's causing your rash, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, pregnancy weeks, and any products you've used. They will look at the rash and may feel its texture. This is usually enough to make a diagnosis.

Tests that may be done

• Sometimes your provider may recommend a blood test to check your liver function (especially if you have intense itching on your hands and feet).
• They may also take a small skin sample (biopsy) to look at under a microscope if the cause is unclear.
• These tests are generally safe in pregnancy.

What to expect at your appointment

You may be asked to undress to your underwear so the rash can be seen fully. The examination takes only a few minutes. If a test is needed, your provider will explain why and what it involves. You'll be told the results and the next steps.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type and cause of the rash. For many pregnancy rashes, simple self-care measures can soothe itching and discomfort. If a specific skin condition or liver disorder is diagnosed, your provider will discuss the safest treatment options for you and your baby.

Self-care at home

• Apply a cool compress (a cloth soaked in cold water) to itchy areas
• Take lukewarm baths with a handful of oatmeal or bicarbonate of soda
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable cotton clothes
• Use a fragrance-free moisturiser after bathing
• Avoid scratching — pat the skin or use a cool spray instead
• Try a gentle, soap-free wash product

Medical treatments

Your healthcare provider may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription cream to reduce inflammation and itching. In more stubborn cases, an oral (tablet) medication may be prescribed. For conditions like ICP, medication may be given to help your liver work properly and reduce risks to your baby. Always take medicines only as advised by your provider — they choose what is safe during pregnancy.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat pregnancy rashes.

Living with this condition

You can live well with a pregnancy rash. It may take a few weeks to settle, but with the right skin care and support from your healthcare team, most women manage well. Keep your nails short to avoid damaging the skin if you scratch.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your skin cool and dry
• Choose gentle, unscented laundry detergents
• Limit your time in direct sunlight
• Use towels and sheets that are not rough on sensitive skin
• Try stress-relieving activities like gentle stretching or reading

Diet and exercise

No particular food is known to cure pregnancy rashes. But drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables helps your skin stay healthy. Regular gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, is usually fine — just avoid getting overheated, as sweat can make itching worse.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A visible, itchy rash can lower your mood and make you feel self-conscious. You might worry about your baby's health too. These feelings are completely normal. It can help to talk about them with your partner, a friend, or your midwife. Remember that most pregnancy rashes are temporary and will not affect your baby.

Prevention

There is no reliable way to prevent every pregnancy rash, but you can reduce your chances of mild itching and irritation by keeping your skin moisturised, avoiding very hot showers, and steering clear of products that have triggered reactions before.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine to prevent pregnancy rashes. However, staying up to date with recommended vaccines before or during pregnancy protects you against infections that could cause skin changes.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for rashes. If you have symptoms, your provider will examine you and may order tests based on your individual situation.

Complications

If left untreated

• An extremely itchy rash can cause you to scratch, which may break the skin and lead to infection
• Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), if left untreated, carries a small risk of stillbirth
• Pemphigoid gestationis, a rare blistering rash, may increase the chance of your baby being born slightly early or having a low birth weight

Long-term outlook

The outlook for pregnancy rashes is generally very positive. The vast majority of rashes disappear after birth without any lasting effect on you or your baby. For the rare conditions that need closer care, early diagnosis and treatment can greatly reduce risks. Trust your healthcare team — they are there to help you have a healthy pregnancy.

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