Steps To Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

If only it were possible to totally prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. Many women find it difficult to cope with changes such as weight gain and stretch marks and the negative impact this has on their self-esteem. Though it is not always possible to completely prevent stretch marks during pregnancy there is a lot you can do to reduce their severity so that you won't get as many.

Stay Hydrated

Stretch marks occur if the dermis is stretched beyond its elastic capacity and the collagen tears. When the dermis is properly hydrated it is less likely to stretch and tear. Therefore hydrating the skin is vitally important if you wish to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. There are two different ways of ensuring that your skin remains hydrated. The most important step is to make sure you are drinking enough water and you should aim for at least eight glasses per day. The use of hydrating body lotions and creams can also help to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy if you massage them into your belly twice a day. The best lotions to prevent stretch marks have a high water content and also contain ingredients such as collagen, vitamin A, vitamin E, cocoa butter, elastin and wheat germ oil.

Watch Your Weight

Women who gain their pregnancy weight quickly are more likely to get stretch marks. The same is true for women who gain more weight than is necessary during pregnancy. Obviously you will be eating for two while you are pregnant but don't use your pregnancy as an excuse to overindulge on junk foods. Instead fill up on whole unprocessed foods that are considered healthy. This should help you to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy, at least to some extent.

Eat Well

There are other benefits to eating a healthy diet during pregnancy. Not only is proper nutrition essential to the health of you and your baby, it is also good for your skin. Zinc, silica, essential fatty acids and vitamins A, E and C make skin healthy and supple. The best source of these micronutrients is healthy food, though you can also obtain them by ingesting prenatal supplements each day. The healthier your skin is the slimmer the chance that your will develop stretch marks during your pregnancy.

Don't Sweat It

Even if you do all of the right things to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy there is still a chance that you will get them. Women who have very pale skin are more prone to stretch marks, as are those who carry a large baby or are expecting twins. Fortunately stretch marks become less prominent over time and lose their red or purplish color. There are certain creams that you can use to diminish the appearance of stretch marks after they appear. If you can afford it laser surgery is also an option.