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Strategies for Preventing Pregnancy Stretch Marks

KimA | Sep 14, 2009 |

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When you're expecting a baby, you'd think that life would be perfect and filled with anticipation. The truth is, though, that a woman's self esteem can really take a hit from the many ways in which her body changes during pregnancy, including the stretch marks that appear as a result of weight gain. Sadly, not all stretch marks caused by pregnancy can be avoided. Although there are no guarantees when it comes to preventing pregnancy stretch marks, there is much you can do to diminish the likelihood of them running wild across your body.

Your first step in preventing pregnancy stretch marks is to keep your skin well hydrated. Stretch marks occur if the dermis is stretched beyond its elastic capacity and the collagen tears. Properly moisturized skin is less prone to be damaged by this expansion. You can keep your skin hydrated properly with two different approaches. First and most important, you need to ensure that you're drinking sufficient quantities of water. Your goal should be eight glasses each day. Using rich lotions and creams can also be effective for stretch mark prevention if you massage them onto your tummy a couple of times a day. The best moisturizing products to prevent stretch marks contain ingredients such as collagen, vitamin E, and elastin.

Those women who gain weight early and fast are more likely to get stretch marks. This is also the case for women who gain more weight than they should while pregnant. Of course you will increase your food intake while you are pregnant but avoid eating an excessive amount of junk food. Instead eat lots of unprocessed, natural foods that are much better for you.

There are other advantages to consuming a wholesome diet throughout pregnancy. Not only is good nutrition important to your health and that of your baby, it is also beneficial for your skin. Essential fatty acids, vitamin E, zinc, and other important nutrients all contribute to making your skin soft and supple, which is critical to preventing pregnancy stretch marks. The best way to get these nutrients is by eating healthful foods, but you can also get them by taking prenatal supplements.

Women who have healthier skin have less risk of getting stretch marks as a result of being pregnant. However, you might do all the right things for preventing pregnancy stretch marks and still end up getting them. Being pregnant with a particularly large baby or twins, or being naturally pale are two reasons that some women are more likely to develop stretch marks than others. Fortunately stretch marks fade though time and their dark red or purple color fades to silvery white. Also, there are a number of creams which are able to minimize the appearance of stretch marks on your skin. Additionally, you can choose laser surgery to get rid of stretch marks if you have the funds to pay for it.