Stretch Marks During Pregnancy: What to Know

Stretch marks, also called striae distensae or striae gravidarum, are narrow lines that can develop when skin expands faster than its deeper supporting fibres adapt. They may begin pink, red, purple or brown, then gradually become lighter and less noticeable. Common areas include the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs and buttocks. Their appearance can be influenced by skin type, family tendency, hormonal changes and the amount or speed of skin stretching. Having them does not reflect poor skin care, and not having them does not predict how a pregnancy will progress.

They can feel itchy, tight or dry, particularly as the abdomen grows. The marks themselves do not harm the baby. A moisturiser can make dry or tight skin feel more comfortable, although no cream can reliably remove established marks.

Use a fragrance-free moisturiser or emollient after bathing and whenever the skin feels dry. Choose gentle, unperfumed cleansers, use lukewarm rather than hot water, and pat the skin dry instead of rubbing it. Loose, breathable clothing may reduce friction and heat. Keep nails short and use a cool compress if itching makes scratching difficult.

Avoid starting prescription retinoid creams or concentrated cosmetic products during pregnancy unless your maternity clinician specifically advises them. Procedures such as microneedling, RF microneedling, fractional laser treatment and carboxytherapy are generally discussed after pregnancy and breastfeeding, because treatment timing and product safety need individual review. After birth, a dermatologist can explain what improvement is realistic and which option fits your skin and feeding plans.

Arrange medical advice if itching is intense, widespread, keeps you awake, or affects your palms or the soles of your feet. Contact your maternity team promptly if itching comes with a rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, or feeling unwell; these symptoms can have causes other than stretch marks and may need testing. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a rapidly spreading blistering rash.

A clinician can examine an unusual rash, confirm that the lines are stretch marks, and recommend pregnancy-compatible relief. Do not scratch until the skin breaks, since damaged skin can become infected.

Ask: Could this itching or rash be something other than stretch marks? Which moisturiser or anti-itch treatment is suitable for me? Should I stop any current skin product? If I want treatment after delivery, when should I review the marks, and how might breastfeeding affect the options?