As you look in the mirror one morning, inspecting and enjoying the look of your beautiful pregnant belly, you suddenly notice a series of faint lines that weren't there before.

A series of questions run through your mind, including - What are these marks? Are they harmful? Do I need to see a doctor?

What you’re seeing are stretch marks, and they’re entirely harmless. But let’s find out more!

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are thin, streak-like lines that appear on the surface of the skin. Depending on your skin colour, the stretch marks will be brown, pink, red or purple. Stretch marks usually appear on the belly, but can also be found on the upper thighs, breasts and bottom. Though stretch marks might come with some itchiness as the skin is thinning, they’re entirely harmless.

Stretch marks occur whenever the skin is stretched, which is why they’re so common. Many of us develop stretch marks as our body grows during puberty or if we’ve put on some weight. That being said, not everyone develops stretch marks during pregnancy, as it really depends on the elasticity of your skin.

So we know a little more about stretch marks – what causes them and how they appear on the skin – but you may be wondering if you’ll have your pregnancy stretch marks for life.

Do stretch marks disappear after pregnancy?

While stretch marks do generally fade, it’s unlikely that they’ll disappear completely. There are various creams and oils sold under the guise that they can remove stretch marks, but the evidence is lacking.

Takeaway Points:

Stretch marks are narrow, streak-like lines that appear on the skin when it is stretched. Stretch marks are therefore very common, especially during pregnancy.

Stretch marks may be a little itchy to begin with but are otherwise completely harmless. Stretch marks will generally fade after a time but are unlikely to completely disappear.

Antenatal Class Questions: Are stretch marks normal in pregnancy?

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