Does a pregnant woman need to be concerned if her breasts itch? In this article, you will find the causes of itchy breasts for pregnant women and ways to prevent them, and when should you see a doctor?
A pregnant woman may experience itchy breasts for a variety of reasons, many of which are related to the hormone changes that occur during pregnancy. In cases where a doctor's evaluation is necessary, however, here is how to determine whether the itching is serious or merely innocuous:
Causes of itchy breasts for pregnant women
A pregnant woman may experience itching in her breasts for a variety of reasons, but the following are the most common ones:
- hormonal changes
Pregnant women often experience itching due to hormonal changes, an increase in breast size and blood flow to it, as well as breast heaviness, tingling, and pain in the nipples.
- skin stretching
The skin stretches proportionately to the increase in weight and the altered shape of the body as the pregnancy progresses and the foetus grows. Stretch marks, which are tiny flat lines that appear on the abdomen, breasts, and feet during pregnancy, may be visible. When these marks form, the pregnant woman may feel itching and burning.
- eczema
One of the most prevalent skin conditions during pregnancy is eczema, which can spread to the breasts or other parts of the body. In addition to itching, pregnant women who have eczema may also experience dry skin or red spots, as well as scaly and cracked skin.
- Itchy urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is a skin rash that spreads. If that is the cause of the itching, the pregnant woman will also notice bumps on her skin in addition to the itching. These lumps could be single spots or they could be seen in clusters. These spots usually spread from the stomach to the chest, thighs and buttocks.
Even though doctors are unsure of the exact cause of this condition, it is very annoying.
- Pregnancy itch
One of the most important cases of pregnancy is itching, as itching during pregnancy is very common due to the immune system’s response to the changes caused by pregnancy. The expectant mother might get itchy little bumps and spots on her chest and other parts of her body.
Ways to help relieve itching
Here are some of the most popular methods that could help a pregnant woman with itchy breasts:
- Maintaining body moisture
For a pregnant woman, drinking enough water helps prevent dehydration.
The good news for pregnant women is that drinking water can also help with other pregnancy problems, like constipation. As dehydration has many side effects, including dry skin that itches.
- Choose suitable fabrics
Because cotton and natural fibres do not tend to retain moisture and perspiration like synthetic fabrics do, a pregnant woman's wearing of synthetic clothing may be the cause of her itchy breasts.
- Choose a suitable bra
Itching may be lessened if pregnant women wear a well-fitting bra that allows air to circulate around their breasts.
- Avoid taking hot showers
It is not advised to use a cold washcloth or take a cold shower, even though they can soothe and relieve itching.
- Moisturizing
Itching can be lessened by moisturising the breast, and effective moisturisers include cocoa butter, shea butter, coconut oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil.
- Use fragrance and alcohol free products
Pregnant women should refrain from using perfume-containing soaps because doing so could aggravate their skin.
When do you have to see a doctor?
You should review and consult a doctor if the itching is severe and ongoing, as well as in either of the following two situations:
1. A fungal infection
A yeast infection might be the cause of the itching. The breast may be harmed by the yeast. The infection may also be related to a vaginal yeast infection or a recent antibiotic.
2. Cholestasis
Cholestasis in pregnancy is a disease that affects the liver and causes severe itching without the appearance of any rash. Itching that starts in the hands and feet and then spreads to other parts of the body are its initial symptoms.
A pregnant woman may also suffer from loss of appetite, nausea, and yellowing of the skin. You should visit a doctor if you experience these symptoms.