Prevent Stretch Marks

Is there a way to prevent stretch marks?

There is no known guaranteed way to prevent them. If you are genetically predisposed to them, your chances for getting them are far greater than the rest of the population. However, some pregnant women have had some success with preventing them. Recommendations are listed below.

Suggestions for prevention

Creams and lotions – various creams and lotions may be topically applied to the expanding skin. For generations, cocoa butter has been used by women throughout their pregnancies for this purpose. When applying a lotion or cream, massage it into the skin in a circular motion.

A word of warning should be given here. Certain lotions and creams may adversely affect your skin and even the health of your unborn baby. Before using any product, read the label. If it contains retinoids, such as Retin-A or steroids such as hydrocortisone, it should definitely not be used if you are pregnant. It would be wise to consult your prenatal care health provider before using any cream or lotion.

Exercise and proper diet – If the skin is in peak condition before it begins to stretch, it makes sense that stretch marks may be less likely to appear. There are several ways to improve the condition of the skin. Here are just a few:

Physical Exercise
Exercise as much as you can. Many mothers to be have opted for yoga that has been specially adapted for them. Consult your doctor about an exercise program that is right for you.

Water
Make sure you are getting a minimum of eight glasses of spring water or purified water every day. Drinking lots of H2O helps to keep the skin soft and therefore make it less likely to develop stretch marks.

Caffeine
Ingesting food and drinks containing caffeine can increase your chances for getting stretch marks. This means you should lay off the chocolate, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. If you feel that you cannot give up coffee or tea, make the effort to drink more water than caffeinated beverages.

Guard against nutritional deficiencies
Several nutritional deficiencies can make you more susceptible to stretch marks, such as protein, zinc, and vitamins A and C. This means you should eat more citrus fruits and juices, fish, dairy, nuts, and protein sources such as eggs, meat, and tofu.