Having a dark line running vertically through the navel and down toward the crotch in pregnancy is entirely normal and harmless. Known as the linea nigra -- literally, "dark line" -- it usually becomes visible around the 14th week of pregnancy and usually fades within a few months after the baby's birth.
What Causes the Linea Nigra?
The line is caused by the hormone changes that take place in your body during pregnancy. According to the Welcome Baby Home website, these changes occur because of "melanocyte-stimulating hormone which acts on the skin cells." Other changes can occur in the skin on other parts of your body too: freckles, moles and the areola of the breasts become darker, as do your armpits, the insides of your thighs, the area around your eyes and the genitals. If you have have a darker complexion, you are more likely to notice these changes than women who have a lighter skin.
How Long Will It Be There?
This linea nigra is actually there all the time on your skin -- and in the non-pregnant state is known as the linea alba -- the "white line." However, this line becomes noticeable only with the pigmentation changes of the skin during your pregnancy. Once the body's hormone levels return to normal after the baby's birth, the skin discoloration fades, usually over the course of a few months.
What Should I Do About It?
You don't need to do anything about the linea nigra as it is perfectly natural. However, if you find it unsightly, it is possible to lessen the impact of the line. The Baby Center Canada website says that research into folic acid deficiency suggests that a lack of folic acid in the body may make the linea nigra appear darker. The site says: "Be sure to get enough folic acid by taking a folic acid supplement and eating foods rich in folates, such as whole grains and leafy green vegetables." Taking folic acid as a supplement may prevent the line from becoming too dark. This is in any case a good idea during pregnancy as your baby requires folic acid to develop properly.
Caring for the Linea Nigra
Taking care of your skin is as important during pregnancy as at any other time, and it is best to avoid lying out in the sun trying to get a tan. Too much sun will intensify any discoloration of the skin, as your skin is more than usually sensitive during pregnancy. It's advisable to use a sunblock of at least SPF15 to avoid sunburn.
Linea Nigra in Folklore
An old wives' tale says that if the linea nigra only runs as far up as the navel, then you will give birth to a girl. If, however, it continues up to the bottom of your ribcage, then you will have a boy. There is no scientific proof of this and no research has been undertaken to find out whether or not this is true.
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