The difference between an itchy belly and obstetric cholestasis

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Pregnancy is a beautiful time, but for many it can also be a time of uncomfortable symptoms, such as an itchy stomach. During the third trimester, the body is undergoing a multitude of changes, and the skin is no exception. As the skin stretches to accommodate the growing baby, it can become itchy and irritated. Furthermore, an increase in hormones can also cause skin discomfort. Many expecting mothers feel that they just have to put up with the itchy stomach during pregnancy, but there are several steps that can be taken to alleviate the discomfort. In this blog post, we will discuss what causes an itchy stomach in the third trimester, potential ways to relieve the itch, and when to contact a healthcare provider. With the right information, expecting mothers can feel more informed and empowered to manage their pregnancy symptoms.

How is a woman diagnosed with obstetric cholestasis?

A pregnant woman lying on the couch relaxing with a book When to worry about swelling during pregnancy The only way to conclusively diagnose obstetric cholestasis is by performing a blood test. “The test looks at levels of bile acids in the bloodstream,” says Kent. “For an official diagnosis, the bile acid must measure greater than 10 micromoles per litre.”

Athaide continues, “We frequently repeat the blood tests to monitor the behavior of the bile acid levels.” “Further tests to monitor the pregnancy may be scheduled based on the results.” ”.

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There are several simple ways to end your pregnancy’s itchiness, but an itchy stomach can make a pregnant woman distracted (and scratch).

If you suddenly feel like you have an itch that you just can’t seem to scratch while pregnant, you are not alone.

During the fifth or sixth month of pregnancy, when you’re really starting to show, skin irritation is a common issue for many mothers, and it only seems to get worse over time (as your belly grows).

When To Consult A Doctor?

Call your healthcare provider if you:

  • Develop severe itch on the stomach and other body parts.
  • Experience any itch not related to dry or sensitive skin.
  • The itch spreads all over the body.
  • Have severe itching and rashes, which could be due to PUPPP or ICP, in the third trimester.
  • Have itching accompanied by light-colored bowel movements, dark colored urine, vomiting, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

    • Simple home remedies or over-the-counter medications may offer relief if the itch is unrelated to a medical condition. Related:

    FAQ

    How can I stop my pregnant belly from itching?

    — there are a few remedies that you can try:
    1. Moisturizer. Apply a thick layer of a heavy moisturizer to your entire belly to help with itching from dry skin. …
    2. Tepid showers or baths. …
    3. Oatmeal baths. …
    4. Cool compresses. …
    5. Topical corticosteroids. …
    6. Antihistamines.

    Is itching normal during third trimester?

    The itching is often worse at night and may bother you so much that you can’t sleep. The itching is most common during the third trimester of pregnancy but sometimes begins earlier. It may feel worse as your due date gets near. But once your baby arrives, the itchiness usually goes away within a few days.

    Can my baby feel me scratch my belly?

    Sensation. After around 18 weeks, babies like to sleep in the womb while their mother is awake, since movement can rock them to sleep. They can feel pain at 22 weeks, and at 26 weeks they can move in response to a hand being rubbed on the mother’s belly.

    What causes the belly to itch during pregnancy?

    The cause of an itchy belly in pregnancy is usually just the skin expanding. 1 You have to expand to accommodate the developing fetus, so there is not a way to get out of that. This doesn’t mean that everyone will experience itching, or to a level that is even noticeable.

    Causes & management of itching in 2nd 3rd trimester of pregnancy- Dr. Teena S Thomas

    Related posts:

    1. Sinus Infection While Pregnant: Prevention and Treatment
    2. Is Claritin Safe To Take While Pregnant
    3. Can Pregnant Women Take Midol
    4. Top 10 Questions About Safe Medications And Pregnancy

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