How can I avoid stretch marks in pregnancy?

​Stretch marks are very common in pregnancy and effect anywhere from 50 – 90% of expectant mothers. They appear early in pregnancy and get more prominent as the pregnancy progresses. They range from pink and red streaks to indented streaks or lines. They will fade after delivery, but unfortunately they do not disappear. Most common places to have stretch marks are abdomen, breast and thigh.

Who is more likely to get stretch marks?
The main risk factor for stretch marks is your genetic tendency. If your sister or mother had stretch marks in pregnancy you are likely to have them as well.  Race is another important factor, affecting darker skin tones, and they more prevalent in younger mothers. Other risk factors are associated with stretching of the skin including: large baby, polyhydramnios (a lot of fluid around baby), obese women, rapidly gaining or losing weight and hormonal changes (especially Cortisone).

Preventing stretch marks in pregnancy
Research has shown that it is impossible to completely prevent the formation of the stretch marks. However there are few things worth trying, which will at least minimise their appearance:
 
1. Physical activity

• Avoid significant weigh gain in pregnancy. Your obstetrician should be able to advise the optimal weight gain in pregnancy.
• Maintain a healthy body and continue an exercise regime. Please consult with your obstetrician regarding which exercise should be avoided.

2. Topical creams 
The best time to start using creams is early in the pregnancy, before stretch marks start to appear. Once stretch marks have formed, they will be very difficult to remove.

• Vitamin E cream has some benefits due to improving collagen of the skin.
• Bio oil may help with keeping the skin moisturise hence preventing or minimising stretch marks.
• Drink plenty of water to keep your body and skin well hydrated.

There is no strong evidence to support these techniques, but many patients find them very helpful.

3. Treatment for stretch marks (possible options after the baby delivery)

• Retinoid cream – helps to rebuild collagen, hence making the appearance of the stretch marks less visible. You should not use this cream during pregnancy. Please consult your Obstetrician before applying
• Laser therapy – stimulates the growth of collagen elastin in your skin. Please consult your obstetrician to decide which treatment is best for you.
• Microdermabrasion – this technique removes the outer layers of the skin and promotes new growth to the skin, hence reducing the appearance of the stretch marks. 

---