Stretch mark are very common and do not only occur during pregnancy. They develop on the surface of the skin and occurs when there is rapid weight gain and can occur around the abdomen, upper thighs, buttocks or breast. Pregnancy stretch marks, also known as striae gravidarum, are a specific form of scarring of the skin of the abdominal area due to rapid expansion of the uterus as well as sudden weight gain during pregnancy; affecting around 8 out of 10 pregnant women (as stated on the www.NHS.Uk).
There are risk factors such as high BMI, low maternal age, family history, high birth weight of baby and pregnancy hormones. However, it is not overly clear as to why some women developing them more than others. Normally they start to be visible from the third trimester in pregnancy. They are not harmful or of medical concerns.
Since ancient times, pregnant women have sought remedies to prevent them during pregnancy. Both the ancient Greeks and Romans used olive oil while the Ethiopians used Frankincense. Today evidence shows that collagen and elastin are proteins in the skins that contribute to its strength, resilience and flexibility. Boosting their production may help prevent stretch marks. They are also research studies to state that a healthy diet should be maintained for skin health including zinc – rich food, foods high in Vitamin A, C, D and protein rich food.
There are no clearly useful treatments for stretch marks, although there are many different suggestions on how to remove them or lessen their appearance. They include:
- Retinoid (often called tretinoin) creams or hyaluronic acid – these may help if used on new stretch marks, but you should not use retinoid creams if you’re pregnant as they may harm your baby
- Light or laser treatments
- Microdermabrasion, which removes a thin layer of skin
Currently these treatments are not available on the NHS.
After your baby is born, the marks may gradually fade into paler scars and become less noticeable. They probably will not go away completely. Stretch marks represent a journey of you, your life and your achievements
Amie Whittard, Sonographer