Pregnancy and stretch marks

Many pregnant women suffer from stretch marks on their abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks, and thighs, especially during the last trimester. Stretch marks are actually tiny tears in the supporting layers of tissue under your skin as it’s pulled tight to the limit during pregnancy.

Whether or not you get them has a lot to do with genetics. If your mother had them, chances are you probably will too. Rapid pregnancy weight gain can also make you more prone to getting stretch marks. 

What can I do about stretch marks when I’m pregnant?

• Moisturise: Keeping your skin well hydrated and moisturised can help reduce stretch marks. Experts recommend applying rich creams, like cocoa butter or oils like coconut oil,  twice daily to the skin, as well as using a rich body wash while in the bath or shower.
• Eat your colours: Eating foods that boost skin health may help reduce the chance of stretch marks. Make sure that your diet includes foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, zinc, and protein. A boiled egg on whole-wheat toast is a great breakfast option. To up the nutritional content of a smoothie, add some brightly coloured berries and green leafy goodness. Also, be sure to eat enough quality fats from healthy sources, like pasteurised butter, coconut oil, virgin olive oil, etc.
• Control your weight: While gaining weight is expected during pregnancy, maintaining a healthy weight gain decreases the chance of stretch marks.
• Hydration: Drinking water is essential in pregnancy. Along with the many other benefits it provides, water makes the skin soft and supple. Supple, well-hydrated skin has a lower chance of ‘stretching’ compared to tighter skin.