Stretch marks during pregnancy are one of the most common annoyances faced by women. According to a report, about 50-90% of pregnant women (1) tend to develop stretch marks from the 24th week of pregnancy. So, is there any way regarding how to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy? Maybe.

What are stretch marks and what causes stretch marks during pregnancy?

Stretch marks are pinkish colored streaks which usually appear around stomach, thigh, hips, butt and breast area. These are minute tears in the upper layer of the skin tissue caused due to stretching of the skin tissues. Stretch marks can be caused due to various factors like family history, consuming bodybuilding supplements, suffering from a genetical disorder, etc. However, pregnant women tend to develop stretch marks due to hormonal change and rapid weight gain. One can start noticing the pregnancy stretch marks during the 3rd trimester.

Though stretch marks are usually caused due to genetic factors, there are few methods and tips on how to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy.

How to Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy:

1. Supervise your weight:

One of the best ways to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy is by controlling your pregnancy weight gain. A sudden and rapid increase in body weight can cause skin tissue to tear. Visit your healthcare professional and prepare an exercise and diet chart which will not only help with the nutrition intake values but will also help in gaining pregnancy weight at a slower pace.

Also, Read – 10 Home Remedies to Remove Stretch Marks.

       2. Consume a nutrient-rich diet:

During pregnancy, it is advisable for pregnant women to eat nutrient-rich food which would not only boost the skin health but will also be beneficial for women as well as the child. Include foods that are rich in Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc and Protein.

       3.Exercise Regularly:

A considerate amount of regular exercise during pregnancy not only helps in improving sleep, reducing mood swings, boosting energy level, improving one’s overall self-image but also helps in preventing stretch marks during pregnancy.

       4.Moisturize your skin:

Keeping the skin moisturized and hydrated has reduced the risk of stretch marks in some people however there are no particular stretch marks cream or oil which could totally prevent stretch marks.

Moisturizing the skin daily has however helped in reducing the dryness and itchiness of the skin which is connected with pregnancy.

      5. Include Omega 3 in the diet:

Omega 3 fatty acids are known for its many health benefits one of which includes skin benefit. It controls oil production which helps the skin to stay hydrated and supple but also delays skin aging process. Omega 3 can be found in both Non-vegetarian as well as vegetarian sources.

NON-VEGETARIAN: (Pregnant women should avoid eating fish which has high mercury level in them)

• Mackerel
• Salmon
• Sardines
• Shrimp

VEGETARIAN:

• Kidney beans
• Walnut
• Flaxseeds
• Chia seeds

NOTE: CONSULT AND CONFIRM WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE CONSUMING FISH.                     

     6. Stretch marks treatment:

There is no guaranteed solution that could help one to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. However, there is certain laser treatment available that could help in reducing and lightening the stretch marks. This treatment is, however, advisable to be done post pregnancy.