Tiny Red Dots on the Skin in Pregnancy

Skin changes are common during pregnancy. Stretch marks, dry skin and itchy skin are the most common; however, some women also suffer from other skin conditions during pregnancy. While some of these skin conditions are nothing more than a bother, other skin conditions can signal that something is wrong. Because of this, medical attention is warranted when you have any skin condition manifest during pregnancy.

Heat Rash

Heat rashes, such as prickly heat, during pregnancy is a common condition. Small red dots, which are usually slightly raised, appear on areas of the body that stay warm and moist. Under the breasts and on the inner thigh are the two most common locations for heat rash. Despite its name, heat rash can occur even during cold weather. One reason why heat rash is so prevalent among pregnant women is due to the effects of hormones on the sweat glands, notes the March of Dimes.

Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy

Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy, or PUPPP, causes itchy patches that include small, red dots or bumps. This condition usually begins on the lower abdomen and it may spread to the buttocks, breasts and legs. It occurs most commonly during the third trimester of the pregnancy. This condition affects approximately 1 out of every 200 pregnant women, notes The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Prescription anti-itch creams and steroid creams are usually used to treat this condition.

Prurigo of Pregnancy

Prurigo of pregnancy is a condition that causes small red bumps, which are similar to insect bites, to appear on the skin. This condition usually starts with only a few bumps, but more appear daily. It is most likely to affect your legs, feet, hands and arms, according to BabyCenter. Prurigo of pregnancy may cause itching, and topical treatments are usually prescribed to alleviate the itching and heal the bumps.

Other Causes

Because your skin is sensitive during pregnancy, you may suffer from allergic reactions to products you were able to use prior to your pregnancy. These allergic reactions may cause a red, pimply rash. You may also suffer from small red bumps on your stomach that are harmless and can spread to other areas of the body. In some cases, acne and razor burn may worsen during pregnancy. Both of these conditions may cause red bumps or spots on the skin.