Painful Stretch Marks During Pregnancy: What to Know

Stretch marks, also called striae, form when the deeper supporting layers of skin are strained as the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, or other areas change. New marks may look pink, red, purple, or darker than surrounding skin. Tightness, itching, burning, or tenderness can occur when the surface is dry or the skin is under tension. Pain that is mild and limited to the marks is usually different from a widespread rash or severe abdominal pain.

Use a fragrance-free moisturiser regularly, especially after bathing, and choose lukewarm rather than hot water. Pat the skin dry instead of rubbing it. Loose, breathable clothing can reduce friction, while a cool compress may calm an itchy or tender area. Avoid scratching, aggressive exfoliation, and unapproved creams or essential oils during pregnancy. Cosmetic procedures such as Microneedling, Fractional Laser Treatment, RF Microneedling, or Carboxytherapy are generally topics for after pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a qualified clinician advises otherwise.

Contact your maternity team or clinician promptly if the itch is intense, widespread, or keeps you awake, particularly when there is little visible rash. Seek urgent assessment for a rapidly spreading rash, blistering, facial swelling, breathing difficulty, fever, severe pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. A clinician can distinguish ordinary stretch-mark discomfort from pregnancy-related skin conditions that need treatment.

Ask whether the appearance and location fit ordinary stretch marks, which moisturiser or anti-itch option is suitable in pregnancy, and whether another pregnancy-related rash should be considered. If you are considering a procedure after delivery, ask when your skin and breastfeeding status make treatment appropriate.