New Delhi. While pregnancy is a special time for women in many ways, it is also challenging in some cases. During this time, women have to face many problems due to the changes taking place in the body. One of which is itching on the stomach, which is known as pruritus gravidarum in medical language.

Hormonal changes occur in the body of women during pregnancy. Due to increased estrogen levels, the sensitivity of the skin increases and this can cause itching. Severe itching can also cause irritation. In such a situation, women should use hypoallergenic products, which work to reduce irritation.

Why does itching problem occur during pregnancy?

Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy

As the baby grows, the skin around the stomach starts stretching which can cause itching problems. There are many other reasons for itching in pregnancy, such as Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy, in which the redness of the skin increases, itchy spots and large patches start appearing, which gradually start spreading. Usually this problem starts in the seventh month and ends after delivery.

Cholestasis

In the problem of cholestasis during pregnancy, bile starts accumulating in the liver. Due to which bile acid (bile juice) starts accumulating in the blood. Due to which there is severe itching in the hands and soles of the feet, yellowness in the eyes and the chances of jaundice also increase. Ignoring cholestasis can pose a risk to both the mother and the child.

Atopic eruption of pregnancy

Atopic Eruption of Pregnancy It can cause a number of skin problems, including eczema, which tends to get worse during pregnancy. 

Dr. Prathamesh Lanjewar, Gynecologist, Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences (NIIMS), Hospital says, ‘If you ever have severe or persistent itching, consult a doctor without much delay, so that the problem of itching can be prevented from becoming serious. Itching is a very common symptom during pregnancy. Because of this, many times it is not noticed. However, in most cases, this problem can be solved to a great extent by moisturizing the skin.’

Remedies to overcome the problem of itching during pregnancy

• To reduce itching during pregnancy, it is very important to keep the skin moisturized . This keeps the skin hydrated, which prevents itching. 
• Drink adequate amount of water, this also keeps the skin hydrated from inside.
• To avoid irritation caused by itching, use products without chemicals and fragrances. 
• Use hard soap and hot water as little as possible.
• Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes.