There are several types of skin rashes specific to pregnant women. The most common type of skin rash to occur during pregnancy is called dermatoses and comes in many forms.
Eczema is the most common form of skin rash to occur among pregnant women during early pregnancy. Nearly 50% of pregnant women report dealing with this condition. Luckily eczema is easily treated with corticosteroids, hydrocortisone or local ointments and will ease without complications as your pregnancy develops.
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Pruritic urticarial papules (PUPPP)
PUPPP is reported in approximately 20% of pregnancies. This itchy, hive like rash often covers the stomach area, causing irritation but no long term risks. Corticosteroid creams are also the best treatment to help ease symptoms.
Gestational pemphigoid, also called herpes gestation due to its blister like similarity; although they are not related, is a skin disease which occurs during pregnancy. Gestational pemphigoid occurs in approximately 5% of pregnancies and only during late pregnancy. Corticosteriods can be prescribed to ease the symptoms and the rash should subside after birth.
There are several other less common forms of dermatoses and rashes typical to everyone which may occur during pregnancy. Generally a corticosteroid cream will ease your symptoms, however your doctor may best diagnose your rash and offer a better treatment.
