How to deal with postpartum hives?: Most mothers indulge in their little bundles of joy, post-delivery and often times forget to pay equal attention to their own health. A woman’s body right after delivery is fragile: it is susceptible to all kinds of complications. Hence, ensure that you’re pampering yourself just as much as you do with the little one. We cannot stress this enough, not just for your own sake, but for the sake of your little baby too. It is completely dependent on you, and therefore, your body; your health almost directly affects the baby.
One common problem that many women experience after delivery is hives; in case you’re wondering, it is what that causes red, blotchy skin. This is actually very common in women post-delivery and usually need not be rushed to the hospital to get treated. Don’t worry though, it is not that serious of a problem (though it is seriously irritating). They arise when the immune system reacts to hormonal changes, and release a protein called histamine into the bloodstream. But don’t you worry, they should fade away soon enough. If you feel that these hives are making you miserable, and taking away precious time from your baby, then you may try some of the following simple home remedies that we’ve put together for new mothers to deal with postpartum hives. Generally, if left untreated, these hives are bound to subside in about 6-8 weeks time. However, if treated with these remedies, there’s no saying that we cannot reduce this timeline by a great factor.
8 Easy Home Remedies to Help Every Mom Deal with Postpartum Hives
1. Aloe Vera
This is my go-to remedy for any skin abnormality. In fact, I’ve grown so fond of it that I sometimes blend it in with my smoothies; don’t judge, it’s an acquired taste. But note that for any skin issue, aloe vera has got your back. When it comes to postpartum hives, rest assured that it is very effective. This is mainly because of its soothing effect, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- You may extract the gel right out of the plant and apply it directly on the affected skin for about 10 minutes. Rinse it off with cool water afterwards and repeat this procedure a few times a day. It’s really that easy.
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2. Chamomile
One of the safest herbs there is, not only for you, but for your baby too. It has many admirable traits, namely its anti-inflammatory properties, being a natural antihistamine, an anti-inflammation agent and relieves inflammation and itching. You may also drink chamomile tea (my personal favourite herbal chai) to ensure you’re getting the right amount of rest. (Tip: It is known to sooth the baby as well).
- Drink chamomile tea thrice a day, until you start seeing the hives subside
- Mix a tablespoon of dried chamomile into boiling water and stir. If you want to get a further soothing effect, add a dash of honey to it.
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3. Oatmeal
Here’s yet another very effective home remedy to kiss those hives goodbye. It has many natural properties, such as being anti-inflammatory, and provides a soothing effect to promote faster healing and much relief from all the itching and potential swelling.
- Create a paste by mixing 2 cups of oatmeal and 2 spoons of cornstarch with sufficient water. This paste can then be applied onto the skin for about 20 minutes. Rinse it off with lukewarm water and continue this procedure every day for 2 weeks.
- Alternatively, you may bathe in oatmeal (how cool does that sound?) Mix some oatmeal in hot water and let it simmer for a good 15 minutes time. Now pour this water into your tub and allow your body to soak up the goodness (but not longer than 15-20 minutes). Repeat this throughout the week, daily to help you deal with postpartum hives. You should be seeing results in no time.
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4. Cold Compresses
This is always the go-to home remedy for a skin condition that is accompanied by itching or swelling. The low temperature prevents further release of the hormone by shrinking the blood vessels, thereby controlling swelling and itching. Hence, this makes for an ideal home remedy to deal with postpartum hives.
- Place some ice cubs in a cloth and dab it against the affected area for 10 minutes at a time. Repeat this a couple of times (3-4) a day. Alternatively, you may choose to bathe in cold water.
- You could also try freezing aloe vera gel, wrapping it in a towel and use it as a cold compress.
Related: Home remedies for rashes
5. Turmeric milk
Turmeric is a mustard-colored spice that has anti-inflammatory, antihistamine and anti-oxidant properties, providing instant relief from itchiness.
- Drink turmeric milk: Mix one spoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm-hot milk. You may add honey or some black pepper powder to see enhanced results. Repeat this not more than twice a day.
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6. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Similar to turmeric, ACV is also a great remedy to deal with postpartum hives, owing to the fact that it has antihistamine properties, providing instant relief from itchiness and inflammation.
- Just like oatmeal remedy, you may choose to bathe in it. Add two cups of unfiltered apple cider vinegar into your bathtub and mix it with lukewarm water. Let your body absorb it for not more than 20 minutes. Repeat daily.
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7. Calamine lotion
This is an over-the-counter topical medication commonly used to say get rid of skin rashes of any kind. Not only does it provide instant relief from itching, but it also promotes the healing process by a great factor.
- Use a cotton ball to apply some calamine lotion of the affected area. Before doing so, ensure that you use a cold compress on the affected area and pat it dry with a clean towel. You may repeat this a few times a day.
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8. Bring down the stress factor
You HAVE to bring down your stress levels; there really is no other go. Ensure that you’re getting enough sleep in order to reduce stress and other forms of anxiety. Most doctors say, it’s important to adopt the sleeping cycle of your baby, so that you get enough sleep. This will in turn help you deal with postpartum hives better.
….some additional tips?
- Try to wear loose clothes to prevent inflammation and bring down the itchiness
- Stay away from hot water to reduce discomfort
- Do not be exposed to direct sunlight
- Increase your vitamin C intake, whether with supplements or your diet.
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Those were some of the best home remedies to help you deal with postpartum hives like a pro. That said, take care of yourself as much as you do with your baby, and enjoy your motherhood!
