How to get Rid of Stretch Marks during Pregnancy

Hey mommy-to-be! Have you noticed some marks on your belly? Don’t be alarmed, they are just stretch marks that appear mostly during pregnancy. It’s a sign where your skin stretches itself to accommodate your precious little one in your tummy. But you might be wondering if there’s any specific way to prevent stretch marks, right? Well, the good news is that there are certain things that you can do to reduce the chances of getting them. So, keep on reading to know more about how stretch marks occur and how to get rid of pregnancy stretch marks.

What Are Pregnancy Stretch Marks?

Pregnancy stretch marks are medically known as ‘striae gravidarum’. It is a Latin word for stripes of pregnancy. These are streaky indentations that appear around the stomach, thighs, breasts, buttocks and near arms. They are usually pink, red, or even purple in colour. The entire ballgame of stretch marks largely depends on your genetics. For instance, if you have fair skin, these marks are more visible. Likewise, if you are a young mother or if you have put on excessive weight or are expecting twins or multiples then you are more prone to pregnancy stretch marks. These marks do become more visible post-pregnancy. Other factors of susceptibility include a change in hormone levels. It’s because the hormone levels can make your skin a little thinner and thereby cause stretch marks.

When Do They Appear?

One thing that might be lingering in your mind is when do stretch marks appear during pregnancy, right? Let us tell you that it’s different for everyone. Most of the time, stretch marks appear later during pregnancy - in the sixth or seventh month. It’s because as the baby grows, your skin stretches to accommodate him/her. Some women witness the stretch marks in the second trimester, while others may notice it in the last few weeks of the third trimester. There are even chances that you might not get them at all.

How To Avoid Stretch Marks During Pregnancy?

Stretch marks during pregnancy are quite normal. Even though you can’t prevent them completely there are some ways to reduce the chances of getting them and to minimise their appearance:

Keep a check on your weight

1. Keep a check on your weight

A moderate amount of about 25 to 30 pounds will help you keep stretch marks at a minimum. Do remember to follow a healthy pregnancy diet for the same.

2. Indulge in skin-nourishing foods

Lack of nutrition can also lead to stretch marks. Thus, it becomes prudent to have vegetables packed with antioxidants and Vitamin E, like carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, nuts, avocados, broccoli, and seeds.

3. Stay Hydrated

Compared to dry skin, soft skin doesn’t have the tendency to develop stretch marks. So, by drinking plenty you can make your skin feel soft and hydrated. On the other hand, it can also help your skin cells function better, repair themselves, and thereby ward off stretch marks.

4. Exercise

As mentioned above, you need to keep your weight in check. So, make sure to keep up with your regular pregnancy exercise routine.

5. Wear the Right Bra

Stretch marks can appear on your breasts as well. Thus to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy remember to wear a well-fitting, supportive bra.

6. Hydrate From the Outside

Creams and oils may not help you prevent stretch marks as a whole. But they do play a vital role in hydrating your skin. They soothe your itchy skin which is one of the pregnancy symptoms you might also notice as your skin stretches.

Can One Get Rid Of Stretch Marks After Pregnancy?

Sorry to burst your bubble, but stretch marks are like scars. You need to embrace them. You cannot get rid of stretch marks completely but once your pregnancy is over, they do become less noticeable. Perhaps, what you can do is indulge in massages that help you relax and feel rejuvenation. But always be mindful of the creams, lotions or laser treatments that falsely claim to get rid of stretch marks.

The Long-Short

Relish your pregnancy time! It’s a period when your body goes through many emotions. Stretch marks are just one small part of the bigger, happier picture. So, consider these stretch marks as happy scars that will remind you of all your precious pregnancy moments, later in life.