What is pemphigoid gestationis?

11-12 weeks pregnant, Health advice

I was diagnosed with pemphigoid gestationis. I didn’t know how to react to the doctor. I have no idea what that means. Can you help? Thanks, Roseline


Hello Rosaline, pemphigoid gestationis is an affliction that can occur during pregnancy affecting your immune system, more specifically, your antibodies. You will have a cutaneous reaction. Without going into all the metabolic details, I can tell you it’s very rare, about 1 case per 20,000-50,000 people, which makes you an exceptional person! 😊 

It usually occurs during the 2nd and 3rd trimester, and often in women who have already had a child. It is characterised by an itchy rash that develops into blisters.

It’s usually found on the stomach, torso and lower appendages, in rare cases on your face and in your mouth. It can be treated, and the risks for the baby are associated with prematurity and low birth-weight. There are often genetic factors in the family that can explain this occurrence. Most of the time, it disappears within a few weeks or months after childbirth. It takes about 16 weeks to heal. Rosaline, that’s about all I can say, and I strongly suggest you write down all your questions and ask them to your doctor during your next appointment.

Talk soon,

Marie

The Baby Expert 

Discover our videos

Subscribe to a monthly or quarterly package now to access full videos.

Sexuality and Pregnancy

Sexuality and Pregnancy

Can having sex at the start of pregnancy cause a miscarriage? When your stomach is sticking out, how can you
Evolution of Labour

Evolution of Labour

What conditions are necessary for natural childbirth? Marie talks about them in clear terms. You will then be able to
Twins

Twins

Did you know that the average gestation perod for twins is 36 weeks, rather than 40? If you are having
Washable Diapers

Washable Diapers

How can you sort through all the reusable diapers on the market? Kathy Vadnais, a reusable diaper consultant, presents different