Allergies during pregnancy – Possible causes and treatments

Allergies during pregnancy are not uncommon, but they can be extremely bothersome for moms-to-be. Typically, the condition already exists even before pregnancy, and is aggravated by the intense hormonal changes that the body goes through while producing the baby. On the other hand, many women develop allergies during pregnancy. Around 8% of them are affected by the problem, the most common ranging from rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and asthma.

Sensitivity to allergens brings with it other symptoms, such as intense itching and itching, for example. Furthermore, it is normal for many people to suffer from dry skin and stretching of the dermis in various regions, changes that increase the chances of suffering from hives. It is important to remember, however, that itching is not always related to pregnancy. Often, the worsening of symptoms is caused by pre-existing skin diseases and allergies.

Even though the situation is considerably exhausting, it is not necessary for women to suffer from allergies during pregnancy, afraid of treating the problem due to pregnancy. Before making any decision, it is essential to consult an obstetrician to find out the best way to solve the problem. In any case, the problem can and should be solved, providing greater peace of mind for pregnant women.

Below, you can check the possible causes of allergies during pregnancy, as well as the best way to remedy the problem.

Possible allergies during pregnancy

Beforehand, it is important to know that allergies during pregnancy are not dangerous for the baby, as long as they are treated appropriately. Depending on the case, however, greater attention is required. In the case of uncontrolled asthma, for example, symptoms can cause a decrease in the amount of oxygen and flow of blood supplies to the baby, making treatment crucial to ensuring the well-being of both mother and child.

1 – Asthma during pregnancy

Did you know that around 8% of pregnant women in the world are affected by asthma? The numbers show that, of those who already had the disease before pregnancy, 1/3 remain stable, 1/3 show improvement and the other 1/3 discover worsening of symptoms. Asthma attacks generally occur during the 24th and 36th week of pregnancy. In any case, it is crucial that the disease is treated and monitored throughout the pregnancy, monitoring crises and the normalization of lung function.

2 – Cholestasis of pregnancy

One of the biggest causes of itching during pregnancy is cholestasis, a condition where there is irregular liver metabolism. As a result, bile salts accumulate throughout the pregnant woman’s body, causing the salt that is deposited on the skin to cause intense and uncomfortable itching. It occurs during the third trimester of pregnancy. Typically, the itching starts in the palms of the hands and feet and then spreads throughout the body.

However, although allergies during pregnancy do not pose any major risks to the pregnant woman, in the case of cholestasis, it is necessary to take extra care. The condition can seriously compromise the baby’s health, even leading to death. The danger becomes greater when bile salts concentrate in the placenta, compromising the blood vessels responsible for transporting nutrients and oxygen. There is also a risk of premature birth.

In addition to itching, cholestasis can also present symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, dark urine, yellowish skin and very light stools. In order to treat the problem, it is essential that the diagnosis is made as early as possible. When the condition is confirmed, tests are carried out and prenatal care is monitored even more rigorously, monitoring the baby’s health with ultrasounds and cardiotographies. Despite this, most cases of cholestasis require early delivery, but nothing compromises the birth of the baby.

3 – Allergic dermatitis

Another of the most popular discomforts among pregnant women is allergic dermatosis, which appears in the form of angioedema, hives or atopic dermatitis. The cause of its appearance is the intense hormonal change that occurs in the woman’s body, altering levels and causing intense itching.

Urticaria, for example, appears in the form of reddish plaques on the skin that are extremely uncomfortable. Angioedema affects the deepest layers of the dermis, manifesting as swelling in the eyelids, lips, face, genital area, hands and feet. Atopic dermatitis is eczema, or inflammation, accompanied by a lot of itching.

In order to avoid the problem, it is important to cut out foods with many dyes and highly allergic foods from the menu, as well as opt for more comfortable and soft clothes, which do not cause friction and worsen the itching. In the case of cosmetics, if one triggers an allergic reaction, it is necessary to discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor.

4 – Candidiasis

Candidiasis is also a common problem that affects women during pregnancy. Because estrogen levels increase irregularly, the proliferation of the Candida Albicans bacteria, which is present in the vaginal region, is favored. Thus, intense and uncomfortable itching appears, as well as milky discharge. Furthermore, the region affected by the bacteria can still become sensitive and inflamed.

Although there are no risks caused by the problem, the birth canal can be contaminated, which causes thrush, or oral candidiasis in the baby’s mouth. Therefore, during breastfeeding, the mother is likely to develop breast candidiasis, which can be extremely uncomfortable.

It is possible to treat the condition using ointments, vaginal creams and antifungals, all prescribed by an obstetrician. It is necessary to avoid daily sunscreens and scented toilet paper as much as possible, but specific soaps for the intimate area are recommended.

5 – Dry skin during pregnancy

In the case of dry skin, the situation is generally aggravated during winter. The less hydration the skin receives, the easier it becomes to feel very itchy, and the problem can be easily alleviated through daily hydration with a neutral cream and drinking plenty of water. Very hot baths should be avoided, as they remove the natural oils from the dermis and increase the sensation of dryness.

6 – Polyformic eruption

Polyform rash is another of the most common occurrences during pregnancy. Like other exposed cases, the condition does not cause any risk to the baby, but it is extremely uncomfortable for the mother. Along with the intense itching, other lesions may appear, such as small blisters, target-shaped spots and papules like dots.

The causes of the problem are unknown, but it is possible that the polyformic rash appears due to excessive stretching of the skin, provoking a defensive response from the body. The condition is common in pregnant women who have gained a lot of weight or first-time mothers, or even in twin pregnancies.

It is possible to treat the situation using specific remedies prescribed by an obstetrician, but the itching should in no way be neglected. When you scratch your skin too hard, the risk of injury becomes greater, allowing access to a variety of bacteria and microorganisms.

Other ways to alleviate allergies during pregnancy

There is also the possibility of alleviating allergy symptoms during pregnancy through simpler measures, but which must still be approved by a doctor. For example, it is important to avoid doing things specified as causes of allergies, avoiding contact with animals, taking very hot baths and scratching the affected area very vigorously. It is also important to avoid signs that worsen symptoms, such as cigarette smoke and strong smells in general.

It is possible to use saline solutions daily to wash the nose and eliminate allergens, for those who suffer from respiratory allergies. Constantly practicing safe exercises for your baby is a great way to relax and manage stress, which increases the apparent desire to scratch your body. Healthy foods should be included in the pregnancy diet, such as those with omega 3, which helps prevent allergies, or vitamins C, D and E.

What did you think of that subject? If you were interested and useful, also check out Spots during pregnancy – Causes, treatments and prevention

Sources: Tua Saúde, Cordvida, Asbai, Semper Família

Images: Bebê Abril, Nutri Total, Guia Infantil, Biologicus, Vuelo Pharma, MD Saúde, Guia do Bebê, Gestação Bebê