Avoiding Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

There are some things you just know you can expect during pregnancy including nausea, back pain, weight gain and stretch marks! Studies have shown that approximately 70-90% of pregnant women will get stretch marks during pregnancy. Can you avoid this unsightly problem? Maybe! There are things you can do to minimize the risk of stretch marks or keep them to a minimum.

Stretch Marks

Stretch marks occur when the body grows at a rapid rate, which makes them very common during puberty and pregnancy. Rapid weight gain or growth stretches the skin allowing tiny tears to occur in the dermis resulting in red or purplish looking marks. Once formed these scars can be difficult to get rid of completely, though over time they will fade to pale or silvery looking marks. When it comes to stretch marks, prevention is better than cure.

Weight Gain

Weight gain during pregnancy is unavoidable; however, there is a normal range you want to stay within. Most obstetricians and gynecologists will recommend you keep weight gain within 25-35 pounds. These guidelines are recommended for health reasons, but they also apply to the prevention of stretch marks. Slow and steady wins the race so to speak, when it comes to gaining weight during pregnancy and avoiding stretch marks!

Hydration

You already know that water is good for you, but did you know it could help you prevent stretch marks? Experts recommend you drink a minimum of 8, eight-ounce glasses of water each day for proper hydration. When the body becomes dehydrated skin cells can die, causing a lack of support in the dermis and leading to visible scarring to the outer skin. If you drink a lot of caffeinated drinks, you will want to up your daily intake of water as well.

Vitamins

Your OB/GYN should start you on a regular prescription of prenatal vitamins, do not skip this important supplement. Not only are these vitamins specially formulated for healthy babies, they can also improve your skin, hair and nails! During pregnancy, many essential vitamins and minerals are diverted to your growing baby, making it necessary to supplement your diet. Various vitamins contained in your prenatal supplements will stimulate collagen production, thereby shoring up the dermis and resisting marks.

Dry Brush

One unique form of skin care you might not have considered is dry brushing. This process involves using a natural fiber brush to gently exfoliate your skin. Find a good natural bristle brush, stand in the bathtub and begin brushing your skin lightly. Begin at the fingers moving in toward the torso, then move to the feet working upwards. The light circular motions and soft bristles will stimulate circulation, remove dead skins cells and make you practically glow! Good circulation and exfoliation are great methods for preventing stretch marks.

Moisturizer

During the second and third trimester, you will really want to step up your moisturizer regimen. It is during this phase of your pregnancy that you will begin seeing rapid growth plus changes in hormones that can affect your skin. There are specially formulated creams designed particularly for preventing stretch marks during pregnancy but you can also use a general cream or oil with good results as well. The idea is to keep the skin soft, supple and malleable while it stretches to prevent scarring. As an added bonus, many of these creams include absorbable vitamins!

After Delivery

Do not stop taking care of your skin once you have had the baby. During this period rapid weight loss generally occurs, once again creating the perfect environment for stretch marks. Continue taking good care of the body through diet, exercise and the application of moisturizers until your body has regained its pre-pregnancy shape.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes despite your best efforts, stretch marks can still appear. Do not despair; you still have options for beautiful scar free skin. For starters, stretch marks will naturally fade over time, though it can take several years. A lot of women prefer to speed up the process via laser therapy or use of specially designed stretch mark creams. Laser treatments will give you the quickest results, however neither will be instantaneous.