Swollen and cracked skin?

Question

I'm 35 weeks pregnant tomorrow and all my skin is cracked and very sore around my v****a and near my bottom hole. My v****a is very swollen as well, which i have heard is normal but im not sure if the cracked skin is. I have been putting moisturiser on but this doesn't seem to help for very long.

This is my first baby so im not sure if this is normal since im getting towards the end and is my body getting ready for labour or should i mention this to my midwife. Does anyone know of something else i can put on to sooth my skin?

Answer 1

This might sound a little crazy, but have you tried using nothing? It could be the moisturiser irritating those sensitive areas- I've always been told not to use any soap or moisturising products down there. My pharmacist gave me some olive oil based body wash because my skin is seriously sensitive- I know it's embarrassing, but you could actually ask at your local pharmacy and see if they recommend anything.

Beyond that, it definitely sounds like something to mention to your doctor or midwife. It doesn't sound normal at all.

Answer 2

With both of my pregnancies I had swelling but no cracked skin. Ask your doctor or midwife what you can do to help, but until then try cocoa butter. It's thicker and lasts longer than a regular lotion.