During pregnancy, the body goes through many changes and the skin is no exception. Acne, the pregnancy mask, and stretch marks are just some of the common skin concerns that may appear during this unique stage of life.
Itchy skin in pregnancy (also known as pruritus gravidarum) is another frequent symptom, usually caused by a combination of factors:
- Hormonal changes affect the body as a whole, including the skin.
- Skin stretching, especially in a first pregnancy, after significant weight gain, or with multiple pregnancies, stimulates nerve endings and can trigger itching.
- Increased sweating due to more active sweat glands may irritate the skin.
- Gestational diabetes, which alters insulin levels, can sometimes cause dryness and itching.
All of these factors can weaken the skin barrier, leading to dryness and uncomfortable itching sensations. To rule out any underlying pregnancy-related conditions, it is important to speak with your doctor, who can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend safe treatment or skincare solutions.