Pregnancy-Related Skin Conditions

Although less common, there are a few skin conditions related to pregnancy:

PUPPP (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy)

This condition occurs in roughly one percent of pregnant women. It is characterized by itchy red bumps and hive-like rashes that usually appear on the belly or around stretch marks. The rash may spread to the arms, legs, breasts or buttocks. PUPPP usually begins in the third trimester of pregnancy. It is harmless, but the itchiness can be severe. There is no known cause for the condition. Treatment typically includes the use of topical ointments, antihistamines and, in more severe cases, oral steroids to help alleviate the itch. PUPPP usually disappears a few days after the baby's birth.

Prurigo of Pregnancy (Papular Eruptions of Pregnancy)

A rare skin condition that can occur anywhere on the body. Prurigo looks like a collection of bug bites. Its onset is usually not before the third trimester and it typically lasts up to three months after delivery. The condition is harmless to mother and baby. Like PUPPP, it is generally treated with topical ointments, oral medications, antihistamines or steroids.

Pemphigoid Gestationis (Herpes Gestationis)

Psoriasis is a skin condition that creates red patches of skin with white, flaky scales. It most commonly occurs on the elbows, knees and trunk, but can appear anywhere on the body. The first episode usually strikes between the ages of 15 and 35. It is a chronic condition that will then cycle through flare-ups and remissions throughout the rest of the patient's life. Psoriasis affects as many as 7.5 million people in the United States. About 20,000 children under age 10 have been diagnosed with psoriasis.