Itch in Pregnancy Management

Abstract

Pruritus is common in pregnancy. It deserves an elaborated work-up of the patient. It is frequently a symptom of a dermatosis that coincides by chance with pregnancy or a preexisting dermatosis that can flare during pregnancy. In some cases, it is due to the group of pregnancy-specific dermatoses. Work-up requires a prudent consideration of the diagnostic tests as well as the choice of treatment because of the potential effects on the fetus. This chapter will focus on the specific dermatoses of pregnancy and the local and systemic treatment of pruritus in general during pregnancy.