The pregnancy care planner

Your NHS guide to having a baby

Stretch marks

These are pink or purplish lines that usually occur on the tummy or sometimes on the upper thighs or breasts. Some women get them, some don’t. It depends on your skin type. Some people’s skin is more elastic. You are more likely to get stretch marks if your weight gain is more than average. It’s very doubtful whether oils or creams help to prevent stretch marks. After your baby is born, the marks should gradually fade and become less noticeable.

Last reviewed: 06/04/2009

Next review due: 06/04/2011

What are these?

Comments

0 Comments

Our rules

Index

Pregnancy planning toolkit

Get personalised pregnancy information

Tell us a little bit about yourself and we'll make sure you get the best information to help you choose what's right for you

Log in or create a Choices account to get started

Your health - you should read:

    Find out what the experts advise women who suffer from some of the most common health conditions during pregnancy


    Condtion checker

NHS Choices

The NHS

Languages

Link to Directgov – public services all in one place