Most all pregnant women experience some dryness and itching, but it is usually short-lived and easily managed with a quality body lotion, cool bath, and time. But what if it’s something more than normal itching and dryness?
PUPPPs (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy) affects about 1% of pregnant women. About 70% of women with the condition are carrying boys. It begins as itching, red bumps and large patches of rash that appear as hives. The rash usually starts on the abdominal area and particularly around stretch marks or broken skin. The rash appears in the third trimester in most cases but can start earlier.
Women carrying multiple babies or male babies are more susceptible to PUPPPs. Although the rash and itching start on the stomach, they can spread to the thighs, hips, and arms quickly. It can be alarming to the pregnant woman, but fortunately it is harmless to the unborn baby. The worse side effect is the constant, sometimes agonizing, itch.
Causes of PUPPPs
There is no definitive answer about what causes this condition. It is not known to be associated with other pregnancy complications. There are some medical professionals who believe it is related to (1) the breakdown and stretching of connective tissue, or (2) male fetal DNA irritating the skin since 70% of cases involve male fetuses. Neither of these assumptions have been validated or proven.
What You Should Do
Call your doctor.
If you have any type of rash or skin irritation, especially during pregnancy, you should always consult your doctor or healthcare provider. Your doctor will examine you and determine if the rash is PUPPPs or something else. She will most likely recommend a lotion or ointment to help relieve the itching. A topical ointment is probably all that is needed, however, more severe cases of PUPPPs may require more aggressive treatment such as antihistamines or steroids.
Only your doctor knows for sure. There are different types of PUPPPs and similar rashes so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis. The primary purpose of seeing the doctor is to ensure that the condition is not threatening the baby in any way. Other rashes and illnesses can mimic the symptoms of PUPPPs -- making it even more important to see a doctor.
How Long Does it Last?
PUPPPs usually starts in the last trimester of pregnancy, although it can begin earlier. Fortunately, it mysteriously disappears a few days after delivery. In some cases, it may last for several weeks after delivery but the good news is that it will disappear soon.
It’s important to remember that this condition is not usually harmful to your unborn baby. But don’t risk your baby’s health or your own health. See your doctor with any rash or potential illness during pregnancy.
Also, keep in mind that only about 1% of pregnant women experience PUPPPs so don’t assume that you have it without a doctor’s diagnosis. The sooner you involve your doctor, the more likely you are to avoid health problems for you or your baby.
Have a healthy and happy pregnancy.
Rhonda Day - With over 25 years of experience in the Corporate world with responsibility for creation of business plans, mission statements, marketing ...
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