Understanding the Nuances of Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

Pregnancy and abrupt increases in body weight are the leading causes of stretch marks. Hormonal changes during puberty can lead to growth spurts and sudden gain in weight. These changes and increases in muscle mass during workouts can trigger the emergence of stretch marks. However, pregnancy is easily the major trigger of stretch marks in women. Thus, it is acknowledged to be a major concern of women who are pregnant. 8 out of 10 women have to contend with this post-pregnancy complication. While stretch marks don’t present any serious complication or problem, a lot of women are embarrassed by these ugly skin marks that emerge immediately after pregnancy. A more proactive management approach must be undertaken so that the condition does not worsen any further. The best way by which you can effectively manage and control stretch marks is by preventing them from happening. Once the darkening of the skin commences, the skin condition becomes difficult to manage and control. Proper preventive measures normally involve exfoliation and massaging of the skin starting from the second trimester of pregnancy. Your primary objective is to maintain the optimum level of nutrients that are needed by the body. During pregnancy, the body will require higher amounts of nutrients to support the unborn baby. This means that pregnant women need to have a diet that is high in vitamin E in addition to fresh fruits and vegetables in order to prevent the emergence of striae. You may not have to be concerned with the treatment for stretch marks if you are able to maintain the skin elasticity. You can choose the right natural supplement or topical cream that is indicated for this skin condition. You can effectively manage and prevent the occurrence of stretch marks with the brand that contains the right natural ingredients. Aside from the abdomen, stretch marks can also appear in the legs, thighs, hips, breasts and arms. Pregnant women can develop stretch marks in any part of their body. During pregnancy, the skin is stretched beyond its normal elasticity and when it reverts back to its normal elasticity right after pregnancy, the stretch marks emerge as flattened skin scars. The skin condition is usually more severe if the skin is not properly hydrated during the course of the pregnancy. Thus, it is important that you maintain the appropriate moisture level of the skin and regularly massage the areas that are susceptible to stretch marks. Make sure that you use topical creams or lotions that contain vitamin E. You may also use simple home remedies or solutions such as cocoa butter or olive oil when massaging those parts of the body where stretch marks normally develop.