What are Pregnancy Dermatoses?
Pregnancy dermatoses are inflammatory skin diseases that occur specifically to women when they are pregnant. They can occur due to a number of factors and causes.
What are the types of Pregnancy Dermatoses and what causes them?
Pemphigoid Gestationis
A rare skin condition caused by the production of autoantibodies to proteins found in the skin that often causes blistering and redness.Polymorphic Eruption of Pregnancy (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy [PUPPP])
An itchy rash that sometimes appears when a woman is pregnant. It can present in a patch of itchy bumps that first appear in stretch marks on the belly and spread to other areas. Exact cause is unknown but has been linked to hormonal changes.Atopic Eruption of Pregnancy (A number of conditions with similar features including eczema in pregnancy, prurigo of pregnancy, pruritic folliculitis of pregnancy)
Pregnant women typically experience dry skin, rough red patches or itchy bumps affecting any part of the body, and may or may not have eczema before pregnancy. This condition does not not harm the baby and typically improves after delivery. The cause is usually related to immune issues with a history of eczema or hay fever.Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Caused by a liver condition that occurs in late pregnancy, triggering intense itching without rashes (usually on the hands or feet).
What are the common symptoms of Pregnancy Dermatoses in Singapore?
Symptoms of pregnancy dermatoses may include:
- Blistering
- Red and itchy bumps and rashes
- Itching (pruritis)
- Hives
- Excoriated papules or nodules
- Eczematous papules and plaques
What are the risk factors for Pregnancy Dermatoses?
Those who are overweight and experienced pregnancy dermatoses before are at a higher risk of developing them. Diet and genetics may also be risk factors.
What are the treatment options available for Pregnancy Dermatoses in Singapore?
Topical emollients and moisturizers
Your doctor may prescribe topical creams to help manage the symptoms of pregnancy dermatoses.Steroids and oral histamines
For moderate to severe cases, your doctor may prescribe steroids and oral histamines to reduce itching and rashes.Phototherapy
For severe cases, phototherapy may be recommended to treat pregnancy dermatoses.Avoid irritants
Your doctor may also advise you to avoid irritants such as soap and laundry detergent if it’s causing dermatoses.
