Pregnancy Stretch Marks: Prevention and Treatment

Most women get stretch marks during pregnancy. They're a sign that your skin has stretched as your body grows to accommodate your baby. You can't completely prevent stretch marks from appearing during pregnancy, but there are some things you can do to help reduce the chances of getting them. Plus, don't worry too much, because pregnancy stretch marks usually fade with time.

What Are Pregnancy Stretch Marks?

Pregnancy stretch marks are striations or streaky indentations in the skin that are pink, red, purple or brown. The medical term is 'striae gravidarum', which is Latin for stripes of pregnancy. They are very common, and typically appear on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, buttocks, and even upper arms.

Genetics plays a role in whether you get stretch marks, and how visible they are. If you have fair skin they may be more visible. You are more likely to get them if you are a young mum, if you put on a lot of weight quickly during the pregnancy, or if you are expecting twins or multiples, but they become more visible post pregnancy as you lose weight. Other indicators of susceptibility include if you've had these marks before being pregnant, or if other members of your family have them. Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy can also make skin a little thinner, making some women more susceptible.

When Do Stretch Marks Appear in Pregnancy?

You might be wondering when stretch marks appear during pregnancy, but it can be different for everyone. Stretch marks often appear later during pregnancy as the skin stretches as a result of weight gain, and to accommodate the growing baby and uterus. Some women will start to get them in the second trimester, while others may not notice them until the last few weeks of the third trimester. Some women are lucky, and don't get any at all.

How to Avoid Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

Unfortunately, there's nothing you can do to completely prevent stretch marks during pregnancy, and there's no miracle stretch mark cream that makes them go away. Here are some ways to help reduce the risk of getting them and to help minimise their appearance:

Keep weight gain at a moderate amount (about 25 to 30 pounds), and try to gain this weight gradually over the course of the pregnancy. Following a healthy pregnancy diet will help.
Eat a diet rich in skin-nourishing foods, such as vegetables packed with antioxidants, like spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Also, include ingredients that contain vitamin E, like nuts, avocados, broccoli, and seeds, and make sure you eat plenty of protein. Vegetarian alternatives can include yogurt and lentils as a good source of protein.
Drink lots of water.
Keep going with your pregnancy exercise regimen.
Avoid too much sun exposure.
To help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy on your breasts, wear a well-fitting, supportive bra.
While using creams and oils may not prevent stretch marks, they can help hydrate your skin and prevent itchy skin, a pregnancy symptom you might also notice as your skin stretches.

Is it Possible to Get Rid of Stretch Marks After Pregnancy?

Stretch marks may not disappear totally, but after the pregnancy is over, they can eventually become a less noticeable silver colour. Indulging in a massage might help you relax and feel better, but be mindful of any misleading claims about the ability of any pregnancy stretch marks creams, lotions and oils to remove or prevent stretch marks. Some women like to try natural or Ayurveda treatments for stretch marks, but these offer no guarantee for stretch mark removal. Laser treatment is a technique some women consider in consultation with their doctors.

You might be worried about the changes your body goes through as a result of pregnancy, but your body's doing an incredible job protecting your little one as he gets ready to meet the world. These stripes are a testament to all you've done.

Visit our healthy pregnancy section for more tips & guide to staying healthy during pregnancy.

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