Stretch marks are probably one of the most feared aspects of pregnancy, but what exactly are stretch marks? They are reddish-purple marks left on the surface of your skin due to the fact that it has stretched to accomodate your baby. It appears most commonly around the waist and thighs, but can appear on the buttocks, breasts and arms. Almost all pregnant women get stretch marks so you’re not alone. However you can control just how many you get and how severe they appear.
Keeping your skin healthy goes a long way to preventing stretch marks. There are many lotions available that combat stretch marks, but talk to your pharmacist or doctor before purchasing. They all basically function in the same way, to keep the skin moist so as not to tear when stretching. It’s the tearing that leaves the stretch mark scars, so if the skin is more elastic it tends not to tear. Keep in mind that you’ll be applying lotion on a daily basis so try to make it part of your ordinary routine.
Staying fit during pregnancy has many benefits, not the least of which is that it greatly helps to reduce stretch marks. It’s healthy and normal to gain about 25-35 pounds during pregnancy, but excessive weight gain leads to extra fat which contributes to stretch marks. Drink plenty of water and keep to a regular fitness routine and you’ll drastically reduce the amount of stretch marks.
No matter what you do you’re likely to have at least a couple stretch marks as a result of your pregnancy, but they likely won’t be noticable to anyone but yourself. Keep in mind that right after the pregnancy they may look really obvious to you, but they do fade in time. However, if you suffered from a fair amount of noticable stretch marks there are other options available, such as a tummy tuck or laser removal. Keep in mind that a tummy tuck is still considered major surgery, so don’t make the decision lightly. Any of these procedures will also cost you a fair amount of money. Consult a dermatologist before making any decisions.
Remember what your stretch marks are: a sign of what you’ve been through and what you now are - a mother. Think of all you’ve endured, and the beautiful reward you receieved at the end of it all. Are stretch marks really something you should be ashamed of, or something you should be proud to show? Think about that the next time you look in the mirror.