Stretch marks that develop during pregnancy are called striae gravidarum. Stretch marks during pregnancy generally affect the stomach, thighs, buttocks, breasts and upper arms. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, about 90 percent of pregnant women will develop stretch marks. Most stretch marks develop during the third or final trimester, and fade over time without any treatment.
Underlying Factors
During pregnancy, your skin is subjected to a combination of hormonal influences and rapid weight gain. When your skin's elasticity cannot keep up with these changes, stretch marks develop. Stretch marks are a form of scarring. If you are younger, overweight, carrying a large infant or having a multiple pregnancy, you are at greater risk for stretch marks. You are also at a higher risk for developing stretch marks during pregnancy if other family members developed stretch marks during pregnancy.
Cocoa Butter
While cocoa butter is often recommended to minimize the appearance of scarring, it is not effective at preventing stretch marks according to a 2008 research study. Researchers at the American University of Beirut Medical Center studied 175 women who used either a cocoa butter or placebo lotion daily. There were no differences between the two groups in either development of stretch marks or severity of stretch marks. Using cocoa butter lotion to moisturize the skin, however, may prevent dryness and minimize itchiness often experienced as the skin stretches.
Trofolastin
Researchers Young and Jewell reported that a cream, known as Trofolastin, containing extract of Centella asiatica (gotu kola), collagen-elastin hydrolysates and alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) produced fewer stretch marks during pregnancy than the use of a placebo cream in a 1996 study. However, researchers noted that the cream appeared to work only for women who already had stretch marks from previous pregnancies. The American Academy of Family Physicians cautions that little is known about the safety of using Centella asiatica during pregnancy, and does not recommend the cream for widespread use.
Verum Ointment
In a small study of 50 women, massage with verum ointment containing tocopherol (vitamin E), hyaluronic acid, panthenol (a form of vitamin B5) and elastin resulted in fewer stretch marks. Researchers Young and Jewell, who reviewed the study, caution that the trial involved no comparison against a placebo. Therefore, its effectiveness for widespread use is inconclusive.
Potential
Eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water during pregnancy should provide you with all the nutrition you need for a healthy weight gain, healthy pregnancy and healthy skin. Gain sufficient weight as recommended by your care provider, but do not gain excessive weight. Never attempt to lose weight during pregnancy; to do so could compromise your baby's health.
