So you’re probably wondering if you’ll get stretch marks… Well, they can affect both men and women but are totally normal during pregnancy and absolutely nothing to worry about. 8 in every 10 women will get them at some point in their pregnancy so if they appear, I guarantee that you are not the only one who has them!!
While you are pregnant your body produces hormones that soften your pelvis to make it more flexible when you give birth, but these hormones also soften the fibres in your skin, making them more susceptible to stretch marks. Most stretch marks will fade after your pregnancy but some may not totally disappear.
Stretch marks can sometimes be related to rare conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome or Marfan syndrome, but these are nothing to worry about and are just possible explanations as to why you may get stretch marks. In very rare cases, stretch marks can develop after using corticosteroids (used to treat skin conditions such as eczema) for prolonged periods of time. Ask your GP or pharmacist for advice if you are unsure about any of the above mentioned conditions.
What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks are red or purple streaks or lines on your skin but can vary in colour depending on the colour of your skin; they may also be pink, dark brown or reddish brown. They often appear to be almost like scars, starting off as slightly raised lines which will flatten out over time, but they will fade to a silvery colour and become less noticeable (although this process can sometimes take years).
Where will I get stretch marks?
You can get stretch marks anywhere that changes or grows during your pregnancy. You can get them on your tummy, breasts, upper arms, buttocks, and thighs.
When will I get stretch marks?
Stretch marks often occur when your body is changing rapidly, and your body is doing just that when you are pregnant. As a result, they tend to appear as your belly is growing and, often, more towards the latter part of your pregnancy.
What can I do to get rid of them?
Unfortunately, there is no way of making them disappear completely disappear but you can use treatments to make them seem lighter, such as creams, gels, lotions or oils which you can buy over the counter at your local pharmacy. Have a look on mumsnet for all sorts of remedies, some of which may be more effective than others…
Pregnancy is a beautiful time of your life and stretch marks are a totally normal part of it, as well as a reminder post-partum that you literally grew an entire human being inside you in just nine months! So why not celebrate your pregnancy with a maternity photoshoot at the London and Essex based Tiny Posers?!
