Going through a pregnancy can be a stressful ordeal that only gets tougher as time goes by. Giving birth to a child and caring for your newborn puts much pressure on your body.
Therefore, it is common to experience certain post-pregnancy symptoms post child-birth. If you see red, itchy skin in the days after your delivery, you may be experiencing postpartum hives.
Hives after pregnancy can be an added burden to an already exhaustive list of troubles. But with sufficient care and attention, you can manage them as well as you managed those nine months carrying a child.
What are Postpartum Hives?
Hives can commonly occur after pregnancy for many women. These are usually bumpy rashes spread over your arms, chest, neck, face, legs, shoulders, etc. Hives usually result from exposure to allergens, which lead to the release of histamine in your bloodstream. Further, this reaction leads to the formation of itchy, scaly skin.
However, postpartum hives can also be caused by stress. Hives serve as a signal that there is an imbalance in your immune system. They are experienced by at least 20% of females after having their deliveries.
Symptoms of Post-Pregnancy Hives
One might ask here, when do postpartum hives start? As per experts, the simplest answer is anytime after childbirth.But, to be precautionary, look out for the following signs and symptoms. These are the possible indications of hives postpartum, and early diagnosis will surely help you in the long run!
Thus, signs to look out for include:
- Red, pinking, or skin-colored bumps on your skin
- A rash on body parts, such as your face, arms, legs, etc.
- Itchy patches on your skin
- Bumps on your skin that turn white when you press them
- The appearance of raised welts
It is important to be attentive to these small things and ensure a healthy postpartum for you and your child.
Also Read: Postpartum Cramps: Causes & Treatment
What Causes Postpartum Hives?
While you may have previously experienced hives, postpartum hives are only visible post-pregnancy.
Thus, to prevent them, one must know what to avoid. Because hives may not be too serious, they are another discomfort you can try to rid yourself of with enough awareness and preparation.
Below are a few of the typical factors that can trigger hives post-pregnancy:
1. Allergies
This is one of the major factors that could be responsible for the emergence of postpartum hives.
If you only suffered from mild allergies or no allergies in the past, going through pregnancy can change that. 33% of females come out of pregnancy with worsened allergic and asthmatic symptoms.
Pregnancy strains your immune system and knocks off your inner balance. Allergies can be stimulated by pollen, dust, animal fur, certain medications like ibuprofen, etc.
If you didn't have any food allergies before, modifying your eating habits during pregnancy could introduce new sensitivities. It is suggested to be aware of any existing allergies. Therefore, you may have to avoid consuming those substances during and after pregnancy.
2.Insect Bites and Stings
This is also a type of allergic reaction. The bites and stings of certain insects like bees can cause an allergic reaction in your body.
Although rare, insect stings can occasionally have significant consequences. Therefore, in the days following childbirth, it is important to take measures to protect your home. Additionally, be extra vigilant for your room and the baby's room to ensure there are no insects.
3. Infections
Pregnancy increases the likelihood of contracting the flu or a cold. Certain germs may enter your body when your body is vulnerable during pregnancy and cause distress in your immune system after the baby is out.
Contracting genital infections during childbirth is another common cause of hives after childbirth.
Infections such as bacterial infections, urinary tract infections, mononucleosis, etc., can result from germs entering during delivery.
4.Exposure to Environmental Toxins
Your body is extra-sensitive after pregnancy. Thus, exposure to too much sunlight, extreme heat, or cold can create a negative reaction. Something as simple as wearing too-tight clothes can also result in hives.
5. Liver Problems
Pregnancy can affect the normal functioning of certain body systems, including the liver. The liver plays a crucial role in eliminating toxins from the bloodstream.
The changes during pregnancy may slow this process down and result in a buildup of unneeded substances. Hives can occur in rare instances due to this specific cause.This can trigger an allergic reaction resulting in hives over the face, legs, and stomach.
6. Stress
Taking care of a newborn immediately after childbirth is no easy task. The stress of being a new parent can lead to various mental challenges, such as depression, sleep deprivation, panic attacks, and anxiety. These mental burdens can manifest as physical reactions in your body.
Postpartum Hives
Read More: Deal With Postpartum Hair Loss
How Long Do Postpartum Hives Last?
Many factors determine the duration of postpartum hives. However, as allergens are the major cause of such skin conditions, it depends on your body's immune system. The quicker your body fights the allergens, the quicker it recovers from hives. The process can take up to a few minutes to a few weeks.
However, the chances of its recurrence are high if you continuously surround yourself with allergens. Therefore, keep a check and take all precautionary measures.
Lastly, if you are still grappling with how long postpartum hives last, we got you covered if you take all the measures. Hives can also appear due to liver imbalance during pregnancy. They will likely vanish within a week or so after childbirth.
In some cases, it might take up to six weeks to go. But don't worry. If you still see hives after six weeks, we recommend you consult a doctor.
When To See a Doctor?
Usually, urgent medical treatment is not required for postpartum hives, which disappear with time.
The maximum time for hives to heal is six to eight weeks. However, if hives are accompanied by symptoms like difficulty breathing, dizziness, fainting, anaphylaxis, swelling of the face, tongue, throat, lips, etc., check with a doctor as early as possible.
There might be some other underlying reasons for the hives that need attention.
What is Postpartum Hives Treatment?
Having a treatment plan for postpartum hives can be highly beneficial, even if the hives are relatively mild.
Preparing for situations like these ensures you know when they happen and help you face them even stronger.
Here are some suggestions you could consider adding to your post-pregnancy hives treatment plan -
Medical Treatment Options
Medical creams like steroid creams, anti-itch lotions, etc., ease the reaction. Keep a check on your treatment, and postpartum hives breastfeeding needs to be confirmed with a doctor.
Medications such as antihistamines, which are medical drugs, can be used to treat this situation. Steroid medication can also be used for postpartum hives.
Moreover, make sure to consult your doctor to ensure the safety of these measures. It is important to consider taking allergy shots and keeping an EpiPen readily available.
Finally, it is suggested to use medications directed towards an imbalance of the liver if the reaction is severe.
Natural Remedies
Natural remedies are always available if you are hesitant about using external chemicals.
Having home visits with your therapist to discuss post-pregnancy feelings is also essential. Furthermore, take a relaxing bath with either cool or lukewarm water, as you prefer.
It is common to experience weight gain after pregnancy, which may result in your old clothes fitting less comfortably. Thus, opt for loose and comfortable clothing that allows for relaxation.
Keep track of your allergies and avoid allergens that can disturb your body mechanisms. Most importantly, treat yourself with care and patience.
Also Read: Lose Weight After Abortion
Managing your Post-Pregnancy Needs
When it comes to experiencing hives after pregnancy or any other challenges, it is crucial not to blame yourself.
As a new parent, it's natural to feel scared and stumble along the way. Despite being prepared, unexpected situations are bound to arise.
Feeling stressed and tired does not mean you hate your baby. It's normal to experience distress as you navigate this unfamiliar phase of life. Irritation or annoyance does not diminish your love for your child. Remember that you are also learning and growing in this process.
Reflect on the fact that there was a time when you didn't feel ready for pregnancy, yet you endured nine months of excitement, pain, and restlessness. Here you are, facing another challenge, you will always feel prepared for. Remember, you have overcome doubts before and will do so again.
Check Out: Eye Twitching During Pregnancy
Summary
In conclusion, experiencing postpartum hives can be common due to various factors. It is important not to blame yourself for these challenges and understand that they happen. Being a new parent can be overwhelming, and it is normal to stumble along the way.
Take care of yourself, manage stress, and be patient with yourself as you find your path as a parent. And, for more such trendy topics on entertainment, beauty, fitness, and feminism, join our the voice of woman family today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. When do postpartum hives go away?
A. It may take few days to a few weeks to go away.
Q. Can you become allergic after pregnancy?
A. Yes, it is very common because of a weak immune system.
Q. How To Deal With Hives Post Pregnancy?
A. Wear breathable clothes, stay hydrated, and take enough rest.
Q. Can breastfeeding cause hives?
A. Some women who have allergies may have a reflex that makes them spit out milk while breastfeeding. This condition could cause redness, itching, hives, and rashes on the chest, arms, and legs.
Q. Are postpartum hives contagious?
A. Hives might not be contagious unless they contain viruses that could be passed from one person to another.
Also Read: Postpartum Self-Care Checklist
