{"id":6986,"date":"2026-08-06T11:13:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-06T11:13:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.london-dermatology-centre.co.uk\/blog\/?p=6986"},"modified":"2026-08-06T11:13:02","modified_gmt":"2026-08-06T11:13:02","slug":"pregnancy-rashes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.london-dermatology-centre.co.uk\/blog\/pregnancy-rashes\/","title":{"rendered":"Pregnancy Rashes: The Most Common Causes Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Developing a rash during pregnancy can be worrying, particularly when you are unsure whether it is a common skin condition, an infection or a problem related specifically to pregnancy. The appearance, location, timing and associated symptoms can all provide useful clues, but several conditions can look similar during their early stages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many rashes during pregnancy are caused by common skin conditions and can be managed once the cause has been identified. However, contact your midwife, GP or maternity service urgently by telephone if you develop a new widespread rash or have been exposed to someone with a rash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do not attend an antenatal clinic or maternity waiting area until you have been advised where and when to attend. Severe itching without a primary rash, extensive blistering, fever, serious illness or a reduction or change in your baby\u2019s usual movements also requires prompt assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Can Rashes Develop During Pregnancy?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Pregnancy causes hormonal, immune and circulatory changes that can make your skin behave differently. You may find that your skin becomes drier, warmer or more sensitive, and products you have used before may suddenly cause irritation, redness or itching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As your body changes, stretching skin, increased sweating and friction can also contribute to rashes, while existing conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may improve, worsen or remain unchanged. These changes can explain some mild skin symptoms, but appearance alone cannot reliably distinguish irritation or eczema from an infection, medicine reaction or pregnancy-specific condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Could It Be Dry Skin, Heat Rash or Contact Dermatitis?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Not every rash during pregnancy is caused by the pregnancy itself. Dry skin, heat rash and contact dermatitis are common problems that can develop because your skin is more sensitive, you sweat more easily or you come into contact with products that irritate your skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can often help by keeping your skin cool, wearing loose, breathable clothing and avoiding any newly introduced product that may have triggered the rash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your symptoms continue, worsen or you cannot identify the cause, your GP or dermatologist can assess your skin and recommend treatment according to the diagnosis, affected area, symptom severity and stage of pregnancy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can Eczema or Atopic Eruption Begin During Pregnancy?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Eczema can begin for the first time during pregnancy or become more active if you already have it. You may develop dry, rough and intensely itchy patches on the face, neck, chest, hands or skin folds, while some people develop smaller itchy bumps over the trunk or limbs. New eczema-like inflammation arising during pregnancy may be described as atopic eruption of pregnancy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Treatment usually includes regular unperfumed emollients and an appropriately selected topical corticosteroid. Seek urgent medical advice if the skin suddenly becomes painful, warm, swollen, blistered, crusted, leaks fluid or develops pus-filled spots, as these symptoms can indicate infection or eczema herpeticum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is Polymorphic Eruption of Pregnancy?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy is an intensely itchy pregnancy-specific rash that usually begins during the third trimester, particularly in the final weeks, but it can also begin immediately after delivery. It commonly starts within abdominal stretch marks and may spread to the thighs, buttocks or limbs, while the skin directly around the belly button is usually spared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PEP is not generally associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes or harm to the baby. Treatment may include emollients, an appropriately selected topical corticosteroid and an antihistamine recommended by a pharmacist, GP, midwife or dermatologist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seek prompt dermatology or maternity advice if the rash begins directly around the belly button or develops several firm blisters. Early pemphigoid gestationis can resemble PEP but may require different investigation, treatment and pregnancy monitoring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Is Pemphigoid Gestationis?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Pemphigoid gestationis is a rare autoimmune blistering condition associated with pregnancy. It often begins with severe itching and raised, hive-like patches around the belly button before spreading, with firm fluid-filled blisters commonly developing later. A dermatologist may arrange a skin biopsy and blood test because the early rash can resemble other pregnancy conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prompt dermatology and obstetric care is needed because the condition may flare around delivery and is associated with an increased chance of premature birth or a smaller baby. Approximately 5\u201310% of newborn babies develop temporary blisters because maternal antibodies cross the placenta, although these usually clear as the antibodies leave the baby\u2019s system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can Severe Itching Occur Without a Rash?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Severe itching can occur without a visible rash in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, a liver condition associated with raised bile acids. The itching may affect any area, commonly includes the palms or soles and is often worse at night or severe enough to disturb sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Contact your maternity unit urgently rather than waiting for a routine appointment. Blood tests usually include bile acids and liver function, but itching can begin before the results become abnormal, so tests may need to be repeated when symptoms continue or worsen despite an initially reassuring result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Could the Rash Be Hives or an Allergic Reaction?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Yes, your rash could be hives, also known as urticaria. Hives cause raised, itchy weals that can change shape and location, with individual marks usually disappearing within 24 hours while new ones appear elsewhere. They may be triggered by an infection, medicine, food, insect sting or another exposure, although in many cases no clear cause is found.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arrange medical assessment if hives are widespread, keep returning or begin after a new medicine, food or other exposure. Call 999 immediately if your lips, mouth, tongue or throat suddenly swell, you are struggling to breathe or swallow, you become very wheezy, confused or dizzy, or you faint or collapse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can an Infection Cause a Pregnancy Rash?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A rash during pregnancy may be caused by an infection rather than a pregnancy-specific skin condition. Chickenpox, measles, rubella and parvovirus B19 are particularly important because maternal infection or exposure may require testing, treatment or additional pregnancy monitoring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Contact your GP, midwife or maternity unit promptly if you develop a widespread rash or have significant contact with someone who has a rash, particularly when you are unsure of your immunity. Telephone before attending a surgery or maternity unit so the service can arrange an appropriate place and time for assessment without exposing other pregnant patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pregnancy Rash Comparison Table<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Several skin conditions can develop during pregnancy, and although many are harmless, some require prompt medical assessment. Recognising the typical features and knowing when to seek urgent advice can help you receive the right care. The table below compares some of the most common pregnancy-related skin conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Condition<\/strong><\/td>Typical Features<\/strong><\/td>Common Location<\/strong><\/td>When to Seek Urgent Advice<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead>
Atopic eruption of pregnancy<\/td>Dry, itchy eczema-like patches<\/td>Face, neck, hands, skin folds<\/td>Signs of infection<\/td><\/tr>
Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP)<\/td>Intensely itchy rash<\/td>Stretch marks, abdomen, thighs<\/td>Blisters or rash around the belly button<\/td><\/tr>
Pemphigoid gestationis<\/td>Itchy plaques followed by blisters<\/td>Around the belly button<\/td>Prompt dermatology and obstetric review<\/td><\/tr>
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP)<\/td>Severe itching without a rash<\/td>Palms, soles or widespread<\/td>Same-day maternity assessment<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Could It Be Scabies or a Fungal Infection?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Yes, scabies and fungal infections can both cause an itchy rash during pregnancy. Scabies often causes intense itching that is worse at night, with small bumps or thin burrow-like lines, while ringworm and other fungal infections typically produce scaly, expanding patches or sore rashes in warm, moist skin folds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You should have the rash assessed if you are unsure of the cause, as the treatments are different. Avoid using a topical corticosteroid on a suspected fungal infection unless a clinician has advised it, and seek further medical advice if the rash is spreading, becomes painful, produces pus or does not improve with the correct treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can Psoriasis Flare During Pregnancy?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Yes, psoriasis can improve, worsen or stay the same during pregnancy. You may continue to have well-defined, scaly patches on areas such as your elbows, knees, scalp or lower back, but your treatment may need to be adjusted because some psoriasis medicines are not suitable during pregnancy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You should speak to your dermatologist if you are planning a pregnancy or become pregnant, rather than stopping treatment on your own. Seek same-day urgent hospital assessment for widespread painful red skin with numerous pus-filled spots, particularly with fever or serious illness. This can indicate generalised pustular psoriasis of pregnancy, historically called impetigo herpetiformis, and requires coordinated dermatology and maternity care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Could a Medicine Be Causing the Rash?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Keep an accurate list of every recent prescription medicine, over-the-counter product, supplement and herbal remedy. Contact the prescribing clinician before stopping an essential medicine unless you have been specifically instructed to stop it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seek same-day urgent assessment for a painful rash, extensive blistering, peeling skin, mouth sores, fever or serious illness. Call 999 for tongue or throat swelling, severe breathing difficulty, collapse or reduced responsiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Will a Pregnancy Rash Be Diagnosed?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your clinician will usually diagnose a pregnancy rash by asking about your symptoms and examining your skin. They will want to know when the rash started, where it first appeared, whether it itches, hurts or blisters, and whether you have recently started any new medicines, skincare products or had contact with someone who has a rash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some rashes can be identified from their appearance alone, while others may need additional tests. Blood tests, skin swabs, skin scrapings or, occasionally, a small skin biopsy may be recommended depending on your symptoms. If the rash changes before your appointment, taking clear photographs can be helpful, but you should avoid trying unprescribed treatments before you are assessed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Are Pregnancy Rashes Treated?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Treatment depends on the diagnosis. Unperfumed emollients may soothe dry or inflamed skin, while appropriately selected topical corticosteroids can be used during pregnancy when prescribed and applied as directed. A clinician may also recommend a suitable antihistamine when itching or hives require symptom control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Infections, infestations, medicine reactions and pregnancy-specific conditions require different treatment plans, which may include antifungal, antibiotic, antiviral or systemic treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emollients are not flammable while on the skin, but dried residue on clothing, bedding and dressings can act as a fire accelerant. Keep contaminated fabrics away from cigarettes, candles, gas fires and other naked flames. This warning applies to paraffin-containing and paraffin-free products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Which Warning Signs Need Prompt Medical Attention?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Contact your maternity unit on the same day for a widespread new rash, possible exposure to an infectious rash or severe itching without a visible rash. Call the maternity unit immediately if your baby is moving less than usual, stops moving or has a change in their normal movement pattern; do not wait until the following day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seek same-day urgent medical assessment for extensive blistering, peeling skin, severe skin pain, mouth sores, fever, rapidly spreading redness or a rash accompanied by serious illness. Call 999 for swelling of your mouth, tongue or throat, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, collapse or reduced responsiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can You Care for Your Skin While Waiting for Advice?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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While you are waiting for medical advice, keep your skincare routine as simple as possible. Wash with lukewarm water, use an unperfumed cleanser or soap substitute, and apply a fragrance-free emollient regularly to help soothe and protect your skin. Wearing loose, breathable clothing and keeping cool can also reduce irritation caused by heat, sweating and friction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Avoid scratching, harsh scrubs, strongly fragranced products and using someone else’s prescription creams or old medicines without professional advice. If your rash is persistent, severe or difficult to diagnose, a dermatologist can work with your maternity team to plan the most appropriate treatment. If you develop severe itching, especially without a rash, or have any new pregnancy concerns, contact your maternity unit promptly, as skin symptoms should never delay obstetric assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Clinical Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take clear photographs and note when the rash started, where it first appeared, whether individual spots move or remain in place and whether your belly button, palms or soles are involved. Also record blistering, fever, night-time itching, new medicines, skincare products and infectious contacts, but do not delay urgent maternity or emergency care while collecting this information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Myth vs Fact<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Myth<\/strong><\/td>Fact<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead>
Every pregnancy rash is caused by hormones.<\/td>Eczema, contact reactions, medicines, infections, scabies and fungal conditions can also cause rashes during pregnancy.<\/td><\/tr>
Severe itching without a visible rash is always a normal pregnancy change.<\/td>Severe itching without a primary rash, particularly when it disturbs sleep, affects the palms or soles or becomes worse at night, requires urgent maternity assessment for ICP.<\/td><\/tr>
A normal first blood test completely rules out ICP.<\/td>Bile-acid or liver-function changes may appear later, so repeat testing can be needed when symptoms continue.<\/td><\/tr>
PEP and pemphigoid gestationis are the same condition.<\/td>PEP usually begins in stretch marks and spares the belly button, while pemphigoid gestationis commonly begins around the belly button and may blister.<\/td><\/tr>
Topical corticosteroids must always be avoided during pregnancy.<\/td>Appropriately selected topical corticosteroids can be used during pregnancy when applied as directed.<\/td><\/tr>
Paraffin-free emollients cannot increase the fire risk of clothing or bedding.<\/td>Dried residue from paraffin-containing and paraffin-free emollients can make clothing, bedding and dressings ignite more easily and burn more rapidly. Keep contaminated fabrics away from cigarettes, candles and other naked flames.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n