Sometimes your bump isn't just cute — it's itchy. If all you can think of sometimes is scratching the skin on your growing belly, you're not alone. Lots of pregnant moms struggle with itchy skin during pregnancy. But what can you do about it?

What to Expect Founder Heidi Murkoff and her daughter Emma Bing sit down with dermatologist Dr. Jessica Wu to find out how to soothe an itchy pregnant belly.

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Key Takeaways
  • I itch, you itch. Yup, we all seem to itch and scratch our bellies during pregnancy as the skin stretches, grows thin, and then irritates the nerve endings underneath.
  • Moisture is your BFF. Gently slather cocoa butter and almond oil, or sit in a soothing oatmeal bath. Got it bad? Your doc may recommend a mild cortisone treatment or antihistamine.
  • This skin sitch is temporary. The itch should ease a lot after delivery, but call your doctor if symptoms worsen (as in an angry rash, blisters, pimples, fever).

What causes an itchy belly during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a perfect storm for itchiness. As your ever-growing bump (and baby) expand, your skin stretches. With that stretching, says Dr. Wu, the nerve endings under the skin get irritated or tickled and cause that uncomfortable itchy feeling.

Plus, as your skin stretches, it also thins, which can deprive the skin of moisture and exacerbate the discomfort. 

When does it start?

An itchy belly is more common in the later stages of pregnancy, though it varies from pregnancy to pregnancy. Many women start to feel itchy around the fifth or sixth month of pregnancy, when their bumps really begin to grow.

What to Expect Community parent emilydraper has been dealing with itchiness too. "For me, switching to unscented products helps, like detergent, body wash, lotion, etc. My midwife also suggested I could use a 1% hydrocortisone (over the counter), as well as a really thick moisturizer like Aquaphor or CeraVe."

What are the best ways to treat an itchy belly?

This first treatment can be challenging: Don't scratch. You risk breaking the skin and getting an infection. If you really need some relief, it's okay to gently pat the skin, says Dr. Wu, a member of the What to Expect Medical Review Board.

To help prevent the need to scratch, Dr. Wu recommends keeping the skin moisturized by massaging with cocoa butter or almond oil. And a lukewarm oatmeal bath can provide some much-needed moisture and soothing, she says. Try these moisturizing products for itchy pregnancy skin, which can also help with stretch marks.

If you feel like there's no relief in sight, Dr. Wu. suggests asking your doctor about small amounts of mild cortisone or topical Benadryl.

Check out the What to Expect app for more expert guidance, personalized support, and itch-be-gone tips from pregnant mamas just like you.

What symptoms warrant a call to your doctor?

If you have a visible rash (especially with blistering, pustules, or pimples); all-over itching; a fever; or otherwise don't feel well, you should discuss these symptoms with your doctor, says Dr. Wu.

How long does an itchy pregnancy belly last?

Good news: You can expect relief after delivery when your skin stops stretching.