Suffering From Itchy Belly During Pregnancy? Try These Simple Tips

An itchy belly mostly occurs in the second trimester i.e., between 13 and 28 weeks. But it could occur in the first or third trimester as well. Itching is more prominent in case of twin pregnancy, as the skin may stretch more than it does in a regular pregnancy.

Yes, it is quite normal for the growing belly to be itchy due to the stretching skin. In some cases, your breasts, palms, and soles turn itchy too. This is due to the hormonal changes and skin conditions that develop with progressing pregnancy. If the itching gets serious, you should immediately consult your healthcare practitioner.

# Oatmeal

- Add a cup of oatmeal to warm water and bathe with it.

- It helps soothe the irritated skin and reduces itchiness.

- You could also tie nylon knee high socks, filled with steel cut oatmeal, to the tap.

- When you use the warm tap water that has run through those socks, it will provide relief and help you relax.

# Baking Soda

- Pour half cup of baking soda in warm water, and soak in it for as long as you get relief.

- Prefer baking soda to baking powder as soda is more effective in relieving the itch and skin inflammation.

- You can also make a paste of baking soda and water, and apply on the tummy and other itchy areas.

# Aloe vera

- Use aloe vera gel to all those itchy and irritated skin areas soon after a shower.

- It will soothe and reduce inflammation.

- The aloe vera gel layer will protect the skin and prevent from any damage when you tend to scratch on the stomach.

# Cold compress

- Apply a cold compress on your tummy with a flannel or washcloth soaked in cold water to reduce the itchy sensation.

- You can also use it in addition to oatmeal or baking soda bath.

# Apple cider vinegar

- You can put some apple cider vinegar on the itchy tummy as it works perfectly in relieving irritation and dryness.