Why do hands and feet itch during pregnancy?

Why do hands and feet itch during pregnancy?

Hormonal and digestive changes, as well as possible genetic predisposition, can cause the liver to not work like it should, which allows bile acids to build up in your body. This buildup of bile can cause some intense itching, particularly on your hands and feet. Cholestasis can be dangerous for your baby.

What does itchy legs mean in pregnancy?

Itching around your stretch marks may be a result of PUPPP, while itchy arm and leg areas are more likely to be a result of fabrics rubbing you the wrong way or prurigo. Occasionally feeling slight itchiness is normal, but intense itching of the abdomen, arms, and legs can be a sign that your body needs some attention.

What does it mean when your hands itch while pregnant?

Itching in pregnancy can be a sign of something more serious. Itching can be a symptom of a liver condition called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), also known as obstetric cholestasis (OC). Obstetric cholestasis is often different to a normal itch as it affects the palms of your hands and soles of your feet …

What should I eat if I have cholestasis in pregnancy?

It is important to follow a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to reduce the risk of cholestasis and other problems during pregnancy….Avoid the following:

• sugars and highly refined foods, such as white bread and corn syrup.
• soy products.
• processed meats.
• full fat dairy produce.

How do you treat cholestasis naturally during pregnancy?

Lifestyle and home remedies

1. Cool baths, which may make the itching feel less intense for some women.
2. Oatmeal baths, creams or lotions, which may soothe the skin.
3. Icing a particularly itchy patch of skin, which may temporarily reduce the itch.

Can cholestasis affect your baby?

Cholestasis may increase the risks for fetal distress, preterm birth, or stillbirth. A developing baby relies on the mother’s liver to remove bile acids from the blood; therefore, the elevated levels of maternal bile cause stress on the baby’s liver.

Can cholestasis of pregnancy go away?

Cholestasis of pregnancy goes away as soon as the baby is born. After delivery, bile levels return to normal. Women can stop taking UDCA medication, with their doctor’s guidance, at this point. Most women with the disorder do not have any more liver problems unless they become pregnant again.

What causes itchy hands during pregnancy?

Itching is common in pregnancy. Usually it’s thought to be caused by raised levels of certain chemicals in the blood, such as hormones. Later, as your bump grows, the skin of your tummy (abdomen) is stretched and this may also feel itchy.

Can itchy feet and hands during pregnancy be dangerous?

Extreme itchiness of the hands and feet that gets worse at night, however, could be a sign of cholestasis, a potentially dangerous condition. Some itchiness during pregnancy is very common, especially in the belly area where skin is being stretched.

Are swollen hands a sign of pregnancy?

Swelling may be experienced at any point during pregnancy, but it tends to be noticed around the fifth month and can increase while you are in the third trimester. Slight swelling is expected during pregnancy; however, if you experience sudden swelling in your hands and your face, it could be a sign of preeclampsia.

Why do my hands swell during pregnancy?

However, not all swelling during pregnancy is normal; if you experience sudden swelling of your hands or face, contact your doctor. This may be a sign of preeclampsia, or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure. Drink lots of water.