Hydrocortizone in pregnancy

[Hoonette]

So I've just put hydrocortizone cream on my excema, then read the tube which says it shouldn't be used during pregnancy unless cleared by a doctor.

Who would like to reassure me that all will be well and they used it during pregnancy with no ill-effects?!

I used really really weak hc very sparingly as I needed some relief! My excema got worse at first, but then better towards the end. Ask your gp next time you see them, I wouldn't worry too much but I'd use it as little as you can.

I've been using bucket loads of it this time round - as I've had horrendous eczema from the word go, including two really horrible bouts of infected folliculitis which needed oral antibiotics. My GP didn't want to prescribe anything stronger than hydrocortisone, but seemed happy enough with me using that to keep things under control (am currently waiting for a dermatologist referral to see if they have any other ideas).

my eczema has been horrendous with this pregnancy and my dermatologist has prescribed much stronger than hydrocortisone (although i still use this on my face).

i used it when pregnant with DS and he's OK too.

We've been prescribed hydrocortizone for DS's excema and I've been putting it on for him. I'm 10 weeks pregnant and I'm wondering whether it can absorb into my skin as I'm applying it to his. Its only 1% but its got me worried now in case I've done any damage to the baby?

The pharmasist refused to sell it to me once I told him i was pg - so i bought it in the shop next door.

I then went to my GP who told me that a little hydrocortizone (steroid cream) would be ok.

Like you - pregnancy has made eczma 100 times worse. I've given up using any kind of soap (except under armpits!) and am washing and moisturising in aqueous cream.

Omega 3 oils are meant to help - pregnacare do some that are safe to take when pg. i haven't got around to taking these yet tho...

Best of luck.

Hydrocortisone like most medications bought over the counter are not licensed for use in pregnancy. The pharmacist was right and the doctor should have prescribed it.

Thanks very much for your replies.

Also, I am relieved to find that pregnancy can make your excema worse! I was totally unable to work out why it was suddenly flaring up, but I now have hope that it will all be over in a few months .

Lovely isn't it? Sitting here scratching in sympathy...

Think baby steals all the nutrients your skin usually uses so you're more likely to flare up. I really must get around to buying those vitamins.