Can you imagine having a rash that is so itchy that it keeps you from sleeping and you end up inducing labor because of it? For some women with extreme cases of PUPPP, that is what happens. PUPPP stands for pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy, and it is a common pregnancy related rash that usually occurs during the third trimester of a first-time pregnancy.
Although the rash is harmless, it can be very annoying and it may even disrupt sleep. It usually develops on the belly first and can spread to other parts of the body. It is made up of clusters of wheals, or hives, and is extremely itchy. It is unknown what causes the rash, though about 70% of women who develop the condition give birth to baby boys. It’s possible that the baby boy’s DNA is a skin irritant to some moms.
If you develop PUPPP, your doctor may prescribe a topical ointment, oftentimes a steroid. Whether you choose to use a prescription treatment is up to you. Some ways to naturally relieve the itching are using very cold compresses, calamine lotion (the pink stuff) and adding mint leaves to your bath water. Baking soda baths may also help calm the itch. The rash will go away on its own after you give birth. Some women experience a peak in symptoms after childbirth before it goes away.
If you develop a rash during pregnancy, you should have your doctor take a look at it, even if you think it’s only a harmless pregnancy related rash. Sometimes, itchy skin can be a symptom of a liver problem known as intrahepatic cholestasis, which needs to be treated right away.
PUPPP is most common during first pregnancies, so if you have it during your first pregnancy, that does not mean you will get it every time you are pregnant.