As the womb expands and the skin stretches, itchiness is common. If you notice an abnormal itchiness all over your body and particularly in the lower legs at any point during your pregnancy, contact your health professional. This is to rule out the possibility of obstetric cholestasis, a rare liver-related condition.
- Drink 2-3 litres of water to rehydrate your skin.
- A lavender bath can soothe irritation. Run a bath and add four drops of essential oil, bathing for at least 15-20 minutes (As a precaution, avoid using essential oils in the first trimester)
- Calendula lotion is safe and soothing. Apply after showering.
- For an ultimate oiling, use sesame oil, highly valued in traditional ayurvedic medicine for dry skin.
- Wear natural fibres that “breathe” next to the skin.
- Begin the day with a glass of hot water and the juice of half a lemon. This is a liver flush and cleanses the body.
- Brushing your skin daily with a dry loafah before showering increases blood flow and helps lymphatic drainage. This is also energising.
- Massage encourages circulation and lymphatic drainage.
- Self help acupressure points Bladder 67