Is Hydrocortisone safe during pregnancy?
Low-strength OTC steroid cream for itchy rashes. Low- to mid-potency topical steroids are generally considered safe in pregnancy.
PregnancyGenerally safe
BreastfeedingUse with care
EvidenceModerate
What the sources say
A 2023 American Family Physician review says low- to mid-potency topical corticosteroids are generally considered safe in pregnancy, while extensive use of high-potency ones may be linked to low birth weight. OTC hydrocortisone is low potency. LactMed notes hydrocortisone is a normal part of breast milk and dangerous amounts reaching the infant are unlikely; avoid applying it to the nipple and keep use short and limited.
Also listed as
cortaid, cortisol, cortizone-10, hydrocortisone 1%, hydrocortisone acetate
Sources
- NIH PubMed (peer-reviewed review): Common Skin Conditions During Pregnancy (Am Fam Physician, 2023)
- NIH LactMed: Hydrocortisone - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.