How to Deal with an Itchy Pregnancy Stomach

Increased blood supply and a growing belly contribute to pregnancy itch. Take these steps to reduce the itch and gain some calm.

Step 1: Avoid drying skin Avoid drying the skin with hot baths or showers. Take warm baths with oatmeal and mild soap.
Step 2: Moisturize Moisturize your skin after bathing with a liberally applied moisturizer.
TIP: A heavy moisturizer such as cocoa butter can help reduce stretch marks.
Step 3: Use calamine lotion Use calamine lotion on particularly itchy spots. Store it in the fridge for a gentle cooling sensation.
Step 4: Wear loose clothes Wear loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibers to avoid aggravation.
Step 5: Don’t scratch Don’t scratch your itch. Pregnancy hormones may make skin thinner and susceptible to tearing.
FACT: Cocoa butter was first extracted as massage butter in 1828 when Conrad Von Houten invented the cocoa press.