WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy? Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) is a rash that usually occurs during the last month of pregnancy. The cause of PUPPP is unknown. Your risk may be higher if you quickly gained a large amount of weight or are pregnant with twins. Your risk is also higher during a first pregnancy. PUPPP usually goes away within 14 days after you give birth. PUPPP does not cause health problems for you or your baby. What are the signs and symptoms of PUPPP? You may have small, red bumps, and hives that itch. The itching may make it hard for you to sleep. It may first appear on your abdomen and then spread to your thighs, buttocks, and breasts. How is PUPPP diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will ask you when you first noticed the rash. He may ask if you have any skin or medical conditions. He will examine the affected areas of your skin. You may need blood tests or other tests to determine the cause of your rash. How is PUPPP treated? You may be given a steroid ointment to apply to your rash to decrease redness, itching, and swelling. You may also need to take an antihistamine to decrease itching. If your rash does not get better with ointment, you may need to take steroid pills. How can I manage PUPPP at home? - Apply a cool compress to your rash. This will help soothe your skin.
- Take an oatmeal bath. Add oatmeal to your bath water to help decrease skin irritation.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have a fever.
- Your itching does not improve or gets worse, even after you use your medicine.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
|