What is PUPPP Rash

PUPPP Rash (Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy) is a rash that develops during pregnancy, or sometimes shortly after giving birth. The rash consists of small red bumps that sometimes form large, scaly, red patches of skin (plaques). The rash goes away soon after childbirth, and it does not leave scars or harm you or your baby.

PUPPP usually appears during the last few weeks of pregnancy. It usually does not return during later pregnancies.

What are the causes?

The cause of this condition is not known. However, it may be related to your skin stretching rapidly during the later stages of pregnancy.

What increases the risk?

You are more likely to develop this condition if:

• You are pregnant for the first time.
• You are pregnant with more than one baby.

What are the signs or symptoms?

The main symptom of this condition is a very itchy rash on the abdomen. The rash often looks red and raised, and sometimes small blisters form in the center of the rash patches. The rash may spread to the legs or arms. The skin around the rash may turn pale.

How is this diagnosed?

This condition is diagnosed based on a physical exam. Your health care provider will examine your skin and ask questions about your symptoms. In some cases, your health care provider may take a sample of your skin (biopsy) for testing in order to rule out other causes of skin conditions.

How is this treated?

The goal of treatment is to stop the itching and keep the rash from spreading. Common treatment options include medicines that relieve or lessen itching (corticosteroids or antihistamines). These medicines may be:

• Creams.
• Ointments.
• Pills to be taken by mouth (orally).

Follow these instructions at home:

Skin care

• Apply any creams or ointments as directed by your health care provider.
• Wear loose clothing.
• Keep your skin clean and dry.
• Do not scratch the rash.
• Do not bathe in hot water. Take cool baths to soothe your skin. Try adding baking soda or oatmeal to the water to reduce itching.
• Apply cool, wet cloths (compresses) to itchy areas as told by your health care provider.

General instructions

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

• Your itchiness does not go away after treatment.
• Your rash continues to spread.
• You are unable to sleep because of the irritation.

Summary

• Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) is a rash that develops during pregnancy, or sometimes shortly after giving birth.
• The rash goes away soon after giving birth. It does not leave scars or harm you or your baby.
• You are more likely to develop this condition if this is your first pregnancy or you are pregnant with more than one baby.
• The goal of treatment is to stop the itching and keep the rash from spreading.