Pregnancy Stretch Marks
Between 50 and 90 percent of women who are pregnant experience stretch marks after childbirth. Initial pregnancy stretch marks are indented red streaks. After that, they become white or dark depending on one’s skin color. The stretch marks can appear on the chest, abdomen, hips, and thighs. Stretch marks are most commonly experienced during the first pregnancy and usually occur in the last trimester. Symptoms include itching and discomfort. Many also experience anxiety about the way stretch marks make their skin appear.
Causes
- Pregnancy at a young maternal age
- Family history of stretch marks
- Rapid weight gains during pregnancy
Treatment and Prevention
- Focus on controlling body weight as recommended by the obstetrician.
- Use a cream or oil, especially one containing Centella Asiatica, when you become pregnant. The treatment will be more effective if started early rather than waiting until the stretch marks appear.
- Do not use an ointment, cream, or gel containing vitamin A to treat stretch marks during lactation or pregnancy.
Consulting with a Dermatologist
The dermatologist can provide skincare treatment options to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and recommend any new products or procedures that may help. Always consult with a dermatologist before using any skin cream during lactation or pregnancy. If you are concerned about stretch marks and want to reduce their appearance, the skin experts at Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai Skin and Aesthetic Clinic are ready to help.
