Are My Itchy Stretch Marks A Sign Of Something Else? - BabyCentre UK

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Are my itchy stretch marks a sign of something else?

Medically reviewed by Claudia Carmaciu, GP and medical adviser Joanne Lewsley

Written by Joanne Lewsley | 6 Sep 2021If you have small, raised, red and itchy areas on your stretch marks, you may have something called polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP). This used to be known as pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) and you may still see or hear it called PUPPP, PUPPPS or PUPPS. In fact, lots of people refer to PEP as a PUPPS rash or a PUPPS pregnancy rash. PEP won't harm you or your baby, but the itchiness may be very distressing, and it can make your skin look red and inflamed.

What are the symptoms of polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP)?

PEP often starts in late pregnancy, but it can also happen just after you've given birth. The itching usually starts in your stretch marks, or on your stomach. It can also spread to other areas, such as your breasts, thighs, back and arms. Advertisement | page continues below You may develop a rash that appears as:

Raised areas, as if you’ve been stung by nettles (wheals).
Small, red, raised lumps (papules).
Larger areas of inflamed skin (plaques).

Sometimes, the rash has small blisters too. If you scratch the blisters they may ooze a little before crusting over. Experts don’t know what causes PEP but we do know it affects around one in 200 people during pregnancy. It’s more likely to affect you if your skin has had to stretch a lot, perhaps because it’s your first pregnancy or you’re expecting twins.

How is polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP) treated?

There are some things you can do yourself to soothe the itching. Try having cool baths with an emollient added to the water and use emollient creams and ointments afterwards. Wearing loose clothes may also help to calm any irritation. However, if the itching and redness is really bothering you, see your doctor. PEP isn’t harmful, but some types of intense itching in pregnancy can be. Your doctor will be able to confirm whether your itching is caused by PEP or something else.VIDEOAdvertisement | page continues belowWas this article helpful?

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Joanne LewsleyJoanne Lewsley is a freelance copywriter and editor, and specialises in creating evidence-based parenting, health and lifestyle web content. Opens a new window Opens a new window Opens a new window

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