𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐲

Every Mom is concerned about stretch marks. Almost 8 out of 10 women develop stretch marks (stria gravidarum) in pregnancy. As a gynecologist in Gurgaon, I know most of you are concerned about developing stretch marks and it can cause emotional distress in your life. But it doesn’t produce any risk to you or neither your baby nor it is painful.

Why are they formed?

Firstly, due to the faster growth of the body over the skin and secondly due to hormonal changes that relax the bond between collagen fibres.

How do they look like?

They are seen as narrow streak like lines due to tiny tears in the layer underneath the skin. Colour variations can be red, pink, purple or brown and ultimately silvery grey post-delivery.

Where do they appear?

Mainly on the tummy, but also on the upper thigh, breast and hips.

Are there any predisposing factors?

Pregnancy, lighter-skinned individuals, pubertal age, genetic predisposition, females, rapid weight gain or loss, intake of corticosteroid injection; Marfans and Cushing syndrome have a higher risk.

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Can they be prevented?

There is limited evidence that any cream or oil can prevent stretch marks. Slow and steady weight gain, balanced diet (rich in Vitamin C, D, E, zinc and protein with minerals) regular exercise, adequate fluid intake (water, herbal tea, fresh fruit juice) can make your skin toned and smooth.

Is there any role of stretch mark cream and oil?

Body Buttercream containing cocoa moisturizes dry and itchy skin and shea butter, a rich source of essential fatty acids helps to reduce inflammation. Stretch mark oil that is good is a combination of seabuckthorn, rosehip, jojoba, almond, extra virgin olive oil and Vitamin E oils. Seabuckthorn oil is a rich source of Vitamin A, E and omega 3, 6, 7 and helps to repair skin damage. Rosehip oil obtained from rosa plant contains Vitamin C that helps in collagen formation. Jojoba oils are one of the most natural oils that resemble human sebum enriched with Vitamin B & E.

Conclusion: There is no proven way to treat them or stop them completely. It is good to accept your stretch marks as it is part of your new body, new curve, new shape, and new skin.

To watch video click Stretch Marks in pregnancy: what to do?