Myths vs Facts Stretch Marks
The journey to motherhood is filled with several surprises and alterations/changes. Spanning from midnight cravings to a bulging belly to stretch marks, pregnancy brings forth multitude of alterations. To make room for the little baby a woman’s body expands, resulting in stretch marks. These appear as bands of parallel lines on the skin varying in colour and texture. Most often formed during the last trimester, these stretch marks can be caused due to changes in collagen in the skin. More than half of all pregnant women deal with stretch marks. Especially, in today’s age of fast paced lives (craze for picture-perfect bodies), stretch marks can be a constant reason for stress and worry.
Predominant Myths Related To Pregnancy Stretch Marks
Myth#1: It Is Impossible to Treat Stretch Marks.
Fact- Although stretch marks cannot be completely prevented, their appearance can improve over time with proper care and treatment. Regular exercise—such as meditation and walking—along with adequate hydration and keeping the skin well-moisturized can help gradually reduce their visibility. Additionally, treatments like laser therapy, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion may help minimize their appearance. However, it is always advisable to consult a dermatologist for appropriate guidance and treatment.
While the appearance of stretch marks cannot be prevented, with time and treatment they can be treated. With regular exercise (meditation, walking), drinking sufficient water along with keeping skin hydrated and moisturized, stretch marks can be gradually lessened. Furthermore, treatments – such as – laser therapy, chemical peels as well as microdermabrasion can diminish their appearance. However, it is suggested to consult a dermatologist to treat stretch marks.
Myth #2 Overweight Women Have Higher Chances Of Developing Stretch Marks.
Fact- Overweight or not, most women develop stretch marks during pregnancy. There is no denying that weight gain leads to the formation of stretch marks but that does not make overweight women more prone. Due to hormonal changes, weight gain and stretching of the skin, pregnant women tend to develop stretch marks. But stretch marks do not discriminate on the basis of weight.
