Stretch Marks (or its medical name striae distensae) are lines that develop on the abdomen as well as in other areas of the body.

They begin as flat lines, and over time they appear as slightly depressed white streaks. While they pose no risk at all to the mother or the baby, there can be discomfort if they lead to itching. Further, the cosmetic effect of their appearance can cause pregnant women a lot of distress.

Stretch marks are caused by the Rapid rate at which skin is being stretched, along with the influence of hormones.

As the baby grows and you start gaining weight rapidly, the skin also starts stretching. But, very soon, unable to keep pace, the skin’s collagen fibers may break down, and the skin tears. The resulting scars that form from this tear are stretch marks.

Apart from the increased stress of fast stretching skin, the changing hormones during pregnancy also play a role. Increased hormone levels may prevent the fibroblasts (cells that keep skin supple) from forming the much needed collagen and elastin as well, making your skin more vulnerable than usual.

Stretch Marks are a common skin concern during pregnancy (called striae gravidarum) and can occur in up to 90% of all pregnant women.

It is generally noted that the incidence and severity of stretch marks seem to be higher in women with higher body mass indices, and also in women with bigger babies. Also, younger women seem to be at a higher risk of developing stretch marks during pregnancy.

While stretch marks generally become visible during the later trimesters of pregnancy (around the sixth or seventh month, when the babies grow the maximum), some women will start to see them forming as soon as their bellies start growing. In the initial stages, when stretch marks start appearing, they may also be itchy. Gradually, as the stretch marks start enlarging in length, they sometimes also attain a reddish or purple hue. As they mature, they appear depressed and irregular in shape or length.