This first treatment can be challenging: Don't scratch. You risk breaking the skin and getting an infection. If you really need some relief, Dr. Wu says it's okay to pat the skin.
Can my itchiness harm my baby? In most cases, itchy skin will not affect your baby (Bechtel 2018, NHS 2019a). Occasionally with pemphigoid gestationis (PG), a baby will also develop a blistering rash after birth, which disappears in around six weeks .
While stretch marks can itch, they are not caused by scratching.
“Rapid, extreme weight can cause stretch marks but there is no scientific evidence that shows that rubbing your stomach in any way can result in stretch marks.
This first treatment can be challenging: Don't scratch. You risk breaking the skin and getting an infection. If you really need some relief, Dr. Wu says it's okay to pat the skin.
Additionally, over-scratching or rubbing an area may also result in scarring, making you wonder why my stretch marks are itchy even more. To avoid this issue, it is best not to scratch or rub any areas where you think you might develop stretch marks in the future.
You may find having a cool bath or applying lotion or moisturiser can help soothe the itching. Some women find that products with strong perfumes can irritate their skin, so you could try using unperfumed lotion or soap.
Bio-Oil Skin Care Oil
Kim Kardashian and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (aka Duchess Kate) are both fans of Bio-Oil for keeping skin soft and stretch mark-free during pregnancy. According to the Bio-Oil website, this product has won 349 skincare awards and has become the No.
However, anything that keeps your skin moisturized and healthy is good for you and will prevent stretch marks from developing in the first place, so don't give up on daily moisturizing.
Can I squish my baby while sitting and leaning forward? Just like bending, it's ok to lean forward when you're pregnant. Your baby is safe and protected by the fluid inside your womb. As previously mentioned, though, good posture will help you avoid any harm and unnecessary pain while you're pregnant.
Researchers have discovered babies as early as 21 weeks gestation show a response to their mother's touch from the outside. In this study, researchers used ultrasound and watched fetal movements and heart rate increase when the belly was rubbed.
For some moms-to-be, constantly touching, patting, rubbing and holding their belly can be soothing. For others, it's a way to feel close to the baby inside.
As your pregnancy progresses and as your baby grows, the skin of your abdomen is stretched and this may also feel itchy. Mild itching is usually nothing to worry about, but if the itching becomes severe it can be a sign of a serious liver condition called obstetric cholestasis.
Unless you take a blow to the abdomen or bounce on your belly, your unborn baby is very well protected. The amniotic sac filled with fluid acts as a protective barrier, as does your uterine muscles, and abdominal cavity.
Concerning the level of vitamin A in Bio-Oil Skincare Oil, it is low enough to render it harmless to the unborn child. By including vitamin A at a low level, Bio-Oil Skincare Oil provides pregnant women with the benefits of vitamin A without any safety risk.
Bio-Oil® Skincare Oil is clinically proven to improve the appearance of stretch marks. 95% of subjects saw a significant result after only 2 weeks of use. 100% of subjects showed an improvement after 8 weeks of use.
Bio‑Oil® provides a comprehensive skincare solution for use throughout pregnancy, and has been used safely by pregnant women for over 20 years to help improve the appearance of stretch marks and scars.
Otherwise, you can position yourself with pillows so you are slightly on your side, or use a massage chair. However, massage of the tummy or breasts can cause contractions of the womb. If you notice strong contractions, stop that part of the massage.
Yes, vapor rub is safe to use during pregnancy. Just follow the instructions properly. Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such.
Itchy skin can indicate stretch marks during pregnancy, but it's not always the case. If you're growing a tiny human, increasing pregnancy hormones and the increasing size of your growing belly can also cause dryness and itching for other reasons. But in general, scratchy skin doesn't always mean stretch marks.
Use lotion or cream daily to keep your skin moisturized. This tactic can also help relieve itchy skin during pregnancy, whether you have stretch marks or not. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water, which may help keep your skin soft and less prone to stretch marks.
A great way to protect your belly area from stretch marks is to begin massaging your belly from the very 1st month of pregnancy. You can do this on your own by massaging yourself with creams and oils that have been formulated to help you reduce the appearance of stretch marks.