Re: PUPPP

Hi - i completely understand your concerns about using prescription medications etc. I am the same way. I have tried just about everything - including the prescription medications and aveeno baths/lotions. For me, i found that an over the counter lotion called Sarna works the best for itching. It's active ingredients are camphor and menthol so it's perfectly fine for the little unborn bundle of joy. I have had a hard time finding it. If your pharmacy doesn't carry it, you can ask them to order it for you. I also found it through some online skincare websites - and even on ebay. If you chose to try this product, which i highly recommend, i found that it works best if you get under a blanket or put on a robe immediately after applying the lotion becasue it seems to intensify the cooling/tingling action of the menthol & camphor.

I know everyone is different but you might also try changing from a fragranced soap/lotion to cetaphil. I've been using both for several months now and I've found that it helps a little. I have also been told to use allergen free laundry detergent and no fabric softener as both might irritate the skin even more.

I've tried several different steroid medicines, benedryl, childrens benedryl, blah blah blah. You might ask your dr about a medicine called Elidel (non steroid cream) and a new medicine called Protopic (also nonsteroid, but it's an ointment.) I don't have the Elidel with me so I'm not sure what the active ingredient is but Protopic's active ingredient is tacrolimus. Sometimes at night, when I just can't take the itching anymore, i used a hydrocortisone acetate and pramoxine lotion called Pramosone. i've found that this is very effective at releiving the itch long enough for me to go back to sleep.

I hope i've given you some helpful information. Good luck with your pregnancy.

Tracey