Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman's life and she experiences many changes as her body adapts to the needs of the growing fetus. One of the most uncomfortable problems associated with pregnancy is itching due to dry, stretching skin. Staying hydrated and keeping the skin moisturized with a good quality lotion or Vitamin E usually helps.
But what if the itching is more than ordinary itching that goes along with pregnancy? Some women experience more severe itching that may occur on the hands, arms, legs, soles of the feet, stomach, or just simply all-over itching. In some situations, the itching may be the result of a more serious condition called Obstetric Cholestasis (OC).
Evaluation and Prenatal Care
Only a doctor should make a diagnosis for this condition so if itching is persistent and extremely uncomfortable, it's vital to see a doctor as soon as possible. Since OC may put a woman at increased risk for premature delivery, a doctor's diagnosis and management are essential for the health of the mother and child.
A doctor will evaluate the signs and symptoms associated with itching to determine if there is any need for concern. Some of the physician's evaluation will include:
- Assessment of where itching occurs and where it is most severe, particularly focusing on palms of the hands and soles of the feet
- Evaluation of urine to identify any potential problems
- Evaluation of any problems associated with greater than normal fatigue or exhaustion
- Determination of how itching affects lifestyle such as causing an inability to sleep
- Review nutritional intake and determine if there is a loss of appetite
Additional Symptoms and Diagnosis
In addition to the above evaluation, other signs and symptoms which are not as common may include jaundice, nausea, and depression. If the doctor suspects that OC is the problem, he or she should conduct a blood test. Testing will include a Serum Bile Acid Test (SBA) and Liver Function Test (LFT). Both of these tests are essential to a proper diagnosis.
Itching in pregnancy is usually a normal occurrence and it is not a serious problem. However, itching that causes severe discomfort, inability to sleep, a loss of appetite, or other symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor. Once any serious illness is ruled out, it's simply a matter of staying hydrated and taking care of the skin throughout the pregnancy.
Remember that only a personal physician or obstetrician should make a diagnosis, especially during pregnancy. A personal physician is a partner in care with each individual patient.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic, Choleostatis of Pregnancy by Mayo Clinic Staff
American Pregnancy Association, "Promoting Pregnancy Wellness"
March of Dimes
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