Eczema flare-up

Eczema flare-up during pregnancy

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dryness, redness, scaling, and intense itching. Pregnancy can affect the course of eczema in various ways: in some women a long‑awaited remission occurs, while in others, unfortunately, a flare‑up happens.

Why can eczema flare up?

Pregnancy is a time of significant changes in the immune system. It becomes more “tolerant” to avoid rejecting the fetus. This shift in immune response (dominance of the Th2 type) can increase susceptibility to atopic reactions, which include eczema. Other factors that contribute to flare‑ups:

• Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels affect skin condition.
• Stress and fatigue: Fatigue and emotional stress are known triggers of eczema.
• Changes in skin microflora.

Safe treatment during pregnancy

The main rule — no self‑medication! Many medications you may have used before are contraindicated during pregnancy. Be sure to consult a dermatologist and a gynecologist.

The cornerstone of treatment is continuous skin moisturization using special emollient products. In case of a flare‑up, a doctor may prescribe low‑ or medium‑potency topical steroids, which are considered safe for short‑term use on limited skin areas. For more information on general skin care, read our guide.