we actually have a number of options with very good safety data,” she says. ‘Pregnancy is hard enough without women also having to deal with an itchy rash.”
New medicines exist
Although new targeting medicines are not specifically approved for use during pregnancy and often need to be discontinued, they represent advances for patients with these skin conditions.
“These medicines interfere with signals in the body that are thought to cause inflammation, and therefore are effective in reducing itch and clearing the skin for both eczema and psoriasis,” Kiracofe notes. “What is most exciting about these new medicines is they are becoming more precise at targeting the source of the disease and are increasingly safer and more effective for patients.”
Pregnancy registries also play a vital role in helping dermatologists determine what treatment options can best support their patients, according to the AAD.
These collect health information from women who take prescription medicine while pregnant, allowing researchers to better assess safety and effectiveness of certain treatments.
Menopause, too, may affect a woman’s skin, the AAD noted. Changing hormone levels may make menopausal women more prone to developing itchy rashes or psoriasis flares. A decrease in estrogen can also cause the skin to become drier and less resilient.
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Treating your psoriasis & eczema during pregnancy
“It’s important to remember that dermatologists can help women treat their skin conditions during every stage of their lives, especially when they are considering starting a family,” Kiracofe says. “Our goal is to guide them through a shared decision-making process and support them in deciding which treatment plan is best for their unique situation.”
If you need to treat your psoriasis or eczema while pregnant, your dermatologist will think carefully about how best to control it without affecting your baby.If you need stronger treatment, your dermatologist will weigh the risks and benefits of possible treatments. The decision to treat psoriasis or eczema while pregnant or breastfeeding is a personal one. If your condition improves while you are pregnant, you may consider stopping treatment. Whatever you decide, make sure it is an informed decision that you have made with your dermatologist.