The Second Trimester: Tingling and Itching

Tingling and numbness of the fingers and a feeling of swelling in the hands are common during pregnancy. These symptoms are due to swelling of tissues in the narrow passages in your wrists, and they should disappear after you deliver your baby. It also is common to feel itchy as your pregnancy progresses. Pregnancy hormones and your stretching skin, especially over your abdomen, probably are to blame for most of your discomfort. About 20 percent of all pregnant women have some kind of itching. And many pregnant women also get red and itchy palms and soles of their feet. Only in rare cases do pregnant women develop a condition called cholestasis of pregnancy, which is itching along with nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice and fatigue. This condition is a sign of a serious liver problem. In general, itching most often goes away after delivery. In the meantime, you can relieve itching with moisturizers. You can also use only gentle soaps, and avoid hot showers or baths that can dry your skin. Try not to get over-heated since heat rash can make the itching worse.

TOPICS

• Aches and Pains
• Shortness of Breath
• Stretch Marks and Other Skin Changes
• Tingling and Itching
• Changes in Your Baby
• Prenatal Care: Visits and Tests
• When to Call Your Health Care Provider
• Caring For Yourself