These are pink or purplish lines that usually appear on your tummy or sometimes on your upper thighs or breasts. Some women get them and some don’t. It depends on your skin type, as some people’s skin is more elastic. After your baby is born, the marks should gradually fade and become less noticeable.
It is very doubtful whether oils or creams help to prevent stretch marks.
You are more likely to get stretch marks if your weight gain is more than average. Most women gain between 10kg and 12.5kg (22-28lb) in pregnancy, although weight gain varies a great deal and depends on your weight before pregnancy. It's important that you do not diet, but eat healthily in pregnancy. If you are concerned about your weight, talk to your midwife or GP. They may give you advice if you weigh more than 100kg (about 15.5 stone) or less than 50kg (about eight stone).
Find out more about health problems in pregnancy.
