Pregnancy is a beautiful time in a woman’s life, but along with that beautiful time comes the battle wounds known as stretch marks. Stretch marks are caused by the body growing very quickly and not giving enough time for collagen to produce. Stretch marks generally begin to appear during the sixth month of pregnancy. During this time the baby is beginning to grow very rapidly and it becomes difficult for the body to keep up with the growing abdomin.
Can stretch marks be avoided? It depends on your genetic make up. Some people are genetically prone to stretch marks and there is little that can be done to prevent them. Others have great success by using lotions, creams and oils that contain cocoa butter or vitamin E. The use of these types of lotions and creams are generally advised by doctors and midwives not only because of their assistance with stretch marks, but because they help to keep itching at bay.
Here are the things that SureBaby lists as reasons you may be at risk for getting stretch marks:
- Genetic History - If your mother, sister(s), aunt(s) all have gotten stretch marks after having a baby, you may also get them.
- Skin Tone - Lighter skin tones often get stretch marks easier than darker skin tones.
- Diet - Ensuring you are eating a balanced diet will assist your body with producing the needed collagen to prevent the stretch marks.
- Skin Condition - Skin that is soft and well hydrated tend to get less stretch marks than skin that is dry or flaky. It is a good idea to drink lots of water to help keep skin soft.
- Weight Gain – If you gain more than normal weight during your pregnancy, which is normally 35-40 pounds, you may be at higher risk of stretch marks.
Although you can not fully ensure you will not get stretch marks while being pregnant, if you keep your belly well covered with a lotion or cream, drink lots of water and eat a balanced diet, you have a better chance at lowering your risk.
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