Itchy Feet During Pregnancy; Although itching is not one of the most important complaints during pregnancy, itching is a very common problem. In some women, itching may occur anywhere, while in others it may occur only in certain parts of the body, such as the hands, feet, abdomen or chest area. Itching itself is usually bothersome, but when it becomes more severe it can cause sleep problems or be a sign of a very serious medical condition.
In this article, we will talk about the causes and solutions of foot itching during pregnancy.
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Causes and Symptoms of Itchy Feet During Pregnancy
Hormonal skin changes
As you can probably notice, your hormones are in dramatic flux, and all those extra functions of the endocrine system can cause your skin to feel uncomfortable. Additionally, your immune system works differently during pregnancy. It increases or suppresses some of its functions, thus ensuring the best possible growth of the baby. The combination of hormones and changes in the immune system can lead to some pregnancy-specific skin problems that can lead to itchy feet.
You may notice:
- Small, itchy spots that look like insect bites
- Irritation-like areas
- Red, crusty, itchy patches that look like eczema
Fortunately, these disorders do not harm your baby and disappear after birth.
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Nerve sensitivity
Hormones also act at this point, and in some pregnant women, nerve endings become more sensitive than normal. Even simple things like sweating, getting warm, dressing tightly, wearing the wrong shoes, or even just lying in bed can make you feel itchy.
Stretch
It is obvious that your skin is stretching during pregnancy. Your body goes through serious changes to accommodate the rapidly growing baby, and the skin stretches and expands in areas such as the abdomen, hips, butt and chest. Depending on your genes, hormones, and weight gain, stretch lines are likely to appear, and they can cause itching. It is unlikely that stretch lines will appear on your feet, but in this process, extra weight is placed on them and since the connective tissues need to stretch, this can lead to itching.
Pearl
If you had psoriasis before pregnancy, symptoms may appear again during pregnancy. Some women may develop painful, itchy plaques, which can also affect the foot.
Cholestasis
There is another rare but serious reason that can cause itching during pregnancy: Cholestasis. This liver condition usually occurs in the third trimester. Your liver normally transfers bile into the digestive system, where it breaks down fats.
Due to hormonal and digestive system changes, as well as genetic predispositions, the liver may not work as it should during pregnancy, and therefore bile accumulates in the body. This accumulation causes intense itching, especially in the hands and feet area. Cholestasis can be dangerous for the baby. It leads to an increased risk of premature birth and even stillbirth.
If you experience the following symptoms, consult your doctor immediately:
- Intense itching
- Increased itching
- Itching that gets worse at night
- Yellowing of skin and eyes
- Darkening of urine
- Stool is white or gray
- Pain in the right area of the abdomen
- Nausea or upset stomach
Treatment Methods for Itchy Foot
Itchy Feet During Pregnancy; There are some solutions you can try at home for typical sources of itching during pregnancy. Some of them are as follows:
Oat bath: This natural and effective solution can be easily applied at home. However, consult your doctor before adding certain essential oils to your bath, as some are not suitable for pregnancy and may irritate your skin further.
Cold: Solutions such as a cold foot bath, cold towels, or even ice wrapped in a towel can reduce itching in your feet. Do not apply ice for longer than 15 minutes.
New socks: Comfortable socks made from natural and breathable fabrics prevent your feet from sweating and itching.
Massage: A foot massage that can be performed by yourself, your partner, or a friend can regulate your nerves and reduce itching. But do it gently and avoid acupuncture points, and also pay attention to the wrists, as some points can trigger uterine contractions.
Moisturizers: A simple, unscented moisturizer can help relieve itchy feet. However, be especially careful when using lotions and consult your doctor, some may not be safe during pregnancy.
Medications: If your itchy feet are caused by eczema or psoriasis, consult your doctor before using medications. Most medications are not safe for pregnancy and the doctor can find a safer alternative. One of the treatment methods suitable for pregnancy is UVB phototherapy. If itchy feet prevent you from sleeping, your doctor may want to help you with a mild sleeping pill.
What to Do in Case of Cholestasis?
Itchy Feet During Pregnancy; If you think you have symptoms of cholestasis, contact your doctor immediately. Liver functions can be evaluated with a blood test, and the baby’s movements, breathing, heartbeat, blood flow and fluid levels can be monitored with the biophysical profile. If cholestasis is present, the doctor will monitor you and the baby more frequently.
Some possible treatments and tests include:
- Non-stress test and biophysical profile
- Blood test to see liver function
- Soaking itchy areas in cool and warm water
- Medications to reduce bile accumulation
- Early birth
Having your baby born earlier than normal may seem frightening, but your doctor will carefully consider the risks and benefits of premature birth and decide whether to continue the pregnancy in the event of cholestasis.
The risk of cholestasis is high and therefore it is generally beneficial to start labor. This practice is especially common in those who are at least 37 weeks pregnant. Babies born during this period usually do not experience any problems.
Conclusion
Itchy Feet During Pregnancy; All in all, pregnancy is a wonderful and sometimes challenging journey. In addition to all the excitement and expectations, there may be some troublesome points and one of them is itching in the feet.
Foot itching may be caused by hormones or the immune system and is normal during pregnancy. While many methods you can apply at home are effective, your doctor can also help in this regard. In rare cases, itchy feet may be a symptom of a more serious condition. Therefore, if you are concerned about your symptoms, do not hesitate to consult your doctor. Necessary treatments will be applied and precautions will be taken.
