Free Article: Stretch Marks during Pregnancy

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Stretch Marks during Pregnancy: Facts and Treatment
By M. A. Fulmar

When a woman discovers she is pregnant, it can be one of the most joyous times of her life. To know that a child is growing inside of her is truly a wonderful thing. But with every joy comes difficulty. Stretch marks during pregnancy are an example of a concern that every woman fears during and after her pregnancy.

Here are the facts behind stretch marks and pregnancy that every woman should know about before, during and after their pregnancy.

What are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks, or striae gravidarum, occur when the skin is stretched at a rapid rate. Collagen - the skin tissues that support and stretch the skin, tears and leaves streaks of white or pink (depending upon the woman's skin tone) stretch marks. Stretch marks can appear not just with pregnancy, but excessive weight gain in the thighs, buttocks, breasts and/or hips can cause stretch marks to appear. Stretch marks during pregnancy occur with almost 9 out of 10 pregnant women.

How Are These Marks Treated?

There is no cure for stretch marks, but there are ways to treat and prevent the severe occurrence of stretch marks during pregnancy, as much as a woman can. Most of the time, however, stretch marks fade at least 12 months after birth.

As far is prevention is concerned, most physicians would recommend that weight gain during pregnancy stay between 25 and 35 pounds. This would help to prevent the skin from tearing and stretching to support the extra weight. Also, it is best to keep in mind that how elastic your skin is, depends heavily upon genetics. If your mother gained a lot of stretch marks during pregnancy, chances are so will you.

For severe stretch marks, your physician will usually prescribe Tretinoin, a topical cream that will help reduce the appearance of the stretch marks. Other types of creams and lotions, such as cocoa butter and vitamin E are thought by many women to make the stretch marks disappear, but most of the type, all they do is soften the skin. It should be recommended that you consult with your physician before you start using any kind of cream or lotion for stretch marks during pregnancy, or while breastfeeding.

While the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy is almost inevitable, staying fit and healthy during pregnancy, and not gaining too much weight is a good way to keep from getting too many stretch marks. While some women consider stretch marks as a proud honor after giving birth, others see them as unsightly scars. Depending upon how you view them, the kind of action you take is up to you.

Author Details:
M. A. Fulmar, copywriter for various websites about skin care, cosmetic surgery, cosmetics and all areas of medical aesthetics.

Article Source: Directory of Free Articles

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