Yes! You can naturally avoid stretch marks during pregnancy. Everybody and every experience is different so it's important to know that any steps taken to avoid stretch marks will affect each woman differently. If you take certain precautions to maintain your skin’s maximum elasticity by keeping it hydrated, soft, and moisturized, then yes, you can most definitely reduce the likelihood of stretch marks during pregnancy.
Genetics and changes in hormone levels play a major role in whether you get stretch marks, and how visible they are. If you have fair skin, they may be even more visible. There is actually no sure way to completely avoid them, but you shouldn’t worry too much as they actually usually fade with time.
READ: Expecting? Here Are 6 Things You Need To Do First
If you’re looking to avoid stretch marks, here are some things to consider:
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1. Creams & Oils
While using creams and oils may not prevent stretch marks, they can help hydrate your skin and prevent itchiness, a pregnancy symptom you might also notice as your skin stretches.
READ: What Happens To Your Body After Giving Birth?
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2. Drink LOTS Of Water
This one needs no explaining! Drinking water keeps you
hydrated from the inside out.
3. Monitor Weight Gain
Keep weight gain at a moderate amount (about 25 to 30 pounds), and try to gain this weight gradually over the course of the pregnancy. Following a healthy pregnancy diet will help.
READ: 8 Foods To Avoid When You’re Pregnant
4. Your Diet Matters
Eat a diet rich in skin-nourishing foods, such as vegetables packed with antioxidants. This can include spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Also, include ingredients that contain Vitamin E, like nuts, avocados, broccoli, and seeds, and make sure you eat plenty of protein. Vegetarian alternatives can include yogurt and lentils as a good source of protein.
5. Exercise
Keep going with your pregnancy exercise regimen.
6. Protect Your Skin
Avoid too much sun exposure. Apply SPF to help protect your skin from sun rays.
7. Don't Forget Your Breasts
To help prevent stretch marks during pregnancy on your breasts, wear a well-fitting bra for support.
Tia Muhammad, BS, is an award-winning freelance content & media creative, copywriter, blogger, digital designer, and marketing consultant. She owns the boutique content and digital media company, jackieGLDN|studio.
