Diagnosis methods for pregnancy rashes

In diagnosing a skin rash associated with pregnancy, a physician will first perform a complete physical examination and compile a thorough medical history of the patient. The physician also will likely ask the patient about the history of the rash (including when and where it first erupted) and symptoms associated with it.

A skin biopsy may be ordered to help the physician pinpoint the exact nature of the lesions. Other laboratory tests generally are not helpful in identifying the nature of a skin rash associated with pregnancy.

Blood tests may be performed to evaluate liver function, and identify elevated levels of bile acids or liver enzymes. These tests may indicate intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, a rare condition that causes itchiness but no rash in pregnant women.

Treatment options for pregnancy rashes

Women who have mild forms of rash associated with pregnancy may be able to relieve symptoms with measures such as soothing baths (e.g., adding oatmeal to bath water) or wet soaks. Applying moisturizing creams and lotions and wearing light cotton clothing also can help relieve symptoms.

Topical corticosteroids and antihistamines are often used to treat slightly more significant cases of skin rashes associated with pregnancy. More severe cases may require the use of systemic corticosteroids. For safety reasons, dosage levels must be tapered or stopped altogether during some pregnancies. In such cases, the medication regimen is likely to be started again following childbirth.