What is prurigo of pregnancy?

Prurigo of pregnancy is the most common itchy rash that may develop during pregnancy. It is part of a group of pregnancy-related skin rashes called 'atopic eruption of pregnancy'.

What are the symptoms of prurigo of pregnancy?

If you have prurigo of pregnancy, your rash may feel dry and bumpy. It may cover large areas of your stomach, arms or legs. Usually, it starts in your first or second trimester.

Usually, after you give birth, your prurigo of pregnancy will improve. You may develop a tendency to get skin conditions in the future. You may also get it again in future pregnancies.

What causes prurigo of pregnancy?

Prurigo of pregnancy is linked to a condition called atopy. Atopy is when you have a problem with your immune system. People with atopy are more likely to get eczema, asthma and hay fever.

Changes to your immune system during pregnancy can trigger prurigo. Your chance of developing it is higher if you have family members with eczema, asthma or hay fever. Some people who have prurigo of pregnancy have had eczema in the past, but some have never had eczema.

When should I see my doctor or midwife?

You should see your doctor or midwife if your skin feels itchy during pregnancy.

Even though prurigo of pregnancy is not harmful, there are other itchy conditions that can be harmful to your baby such as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. It is important to make sure that you don't have these conditions.

Your doctor can also check if you have an itchy condition that is not related to pregnancy such as psoriasis, urticaria or scabies.

You should also see your doctor if you are receiving treatment for prurigo of pregnancy and it is not getting better, or is causing you to feel anxious.

How is prurigo of pregnancy diagnosed?

Your doctor can diagnose prurigo of pregnancy by physically examining you. They will know what it is by looking at it. There is no test to diagnose prurigo of pregnancy. You may need to have a skin biopsy and blood tests to check for other skin conditions.

Read more on other causes of itching during pregnancy.

How is prurigo of pregnancy treated?

Your treatment for prurigo of pregnancy aims to relieve your symptoms, so that you do not feel itchy.

Self-care tips to help manage prurigo

Treatments that can help relieve your itching include:

• having a bath with oatmeal added to the water
• moisturisers
• calamine lotion
• antihistamine tablets — ask your pharmacist for advice

Here are some tips to help relieve your symptoms:

• stay cool
• wear clothing made of soft fabrics
• avoid things that irritate your skin, such as soap

You should only wash once a day, because this can irritate your skin. Whenever you use a medicine, cream or lotion, check the list of ingredients to make sure it's safe to use during pregnancy. If you are not sure, ask your doctor, midwife or pharmacist. Most non-prescription skin care products are safe. It is important to avoid certain ingredients while you're pregnant, such as vitamin A (also called retinol).

Before you use a medicine such as a steroid cream or antihistamine, ask your doctor or pharmacist which ones are safe to use in pregnancy.

If you've tried these treatments and you still feel itchy, talk to your doctor as there are other treatments that can help such as steroid tablets or phototherapy.

What are the complications of prurigo of pregnancy?

Prurigo of pregnancy does not cause any pregnancy complications for you or your baby. It can cause the skin to be very dry and you may have scratch marks or weeping of the skin.

Can prurigo of pregnancy be prevented?

Unfortunately, you cannot prevent prurigo of pregnancy.

Resources and support

Learn more about prurigo of pregnancy at The Australasian College of Dermatologists' website.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and would like to find out more about your medicines, call Medicines Line on 1300 633 424.

Read about self-care for expecting and new parents at PANDA.

Other languages

Visit the Healthy Horizons website in a range of community languages to learn about general health conditions. These include several skin diseases, reproductive health and mental health.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

You can find out more about Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander pregnancy health on Stronger Bubba Born or watch the How to Have a Safer Pregnancy video.

Looking for information for sexually and gender-diverse families?

PANDA has inclusive and appropriate support for LGBTIQA+ expecting and new parents.