Psoriasis does not stop just because mom is pregnant. During pregnancy, topical treatments are often approved for use on the skin. Systemic medications are not approved during pregnancy. After baby is born, mom needs to make sure to wash her hands after applying topical creams for psoriasis. Mom should also make sure not to apply the cream anywhere near the nipples if she is breastfeeding.
There are a few studies that have linked the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy with psoriasis outbreaks. There are several factors that can be the cause of the psoriasis breakout and these are not limited to the change in hormones. Environmental factors, stress and illness can all reduce the immune systems response to the psoriasis.
Psoriasis is not contagious. Women who are concerned about passing the condition on to their children after birth should remember that skin contact does not pass along the rash. There is a genetic factor to take into consideration, however. Mothers who suffer from psoriasis pass the skin condition on to their children in 15% of births. If both parents suffer from psoriasis, that percentage goes up to 60% of births.
In some cases of severe psoriasis, Impetigo herpetiformis can result. The symptoms of Impetigo herpetiformis include nausea, fever and changes in mental acuity. Antibiotics are the only course of treatment for Impetigo herpetiformis.
Treatments for psoriasis that should be avoided during pregnancy include Vitamin A topical treatments, Vitamin D topical treatments, emollients, corticosteroids and some systemic medications.