You may have come across some articles about PUPPP,
or Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. As severe as it sounds, PUPPP is actually a pesky skin rash that may occur during your third trimester and remain until after child birth.
What are the signs of PUPPP?
These rashes are small, itchy red bumps that appear on your belly, but they may also spread to your thighs, arms, buttocks, and breasts.
What causes it?
The actual cause of PUPPP is still unclear, which is also a reason why there are no known ways to prevent it. But the good news is that it is temporary and disappears on its own soon after you deliver your baby. Studies also show that the condition does not recur in subsequent pregnancies.
Is it dangerous?
While irritating, PUPPP is benign. It is a fairly common symptom of pregnancy for first-time moms. However, the rash may cause you a lot of discomfort. You should be cautious when self-medicating in an attempt to ease the itching.
You can try safe solutions at home—place an ice compress on the affected areas, take oatmeal baths, and wear soft, natural fibers to help calm your skin.
If the itching becomes too much to bear, consult your doctor about medications or creams that are safe to use.
Any additional tips for managing PUPPP?
Avoid wearing tight clothes and synthetic fibers (you want your skin to breathe), and stay away from hot baths and extreme weather as they can irritate your skin.
It will help to relax your mind or get into light activities that keep your hands busy—just so you aren’t tempted to scratch your rashes. Just remember: mind over matter! You will be fine.
