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For a lot of expectant mothers, the most horrible thing that can happen to them during pregnancy is Striae gravidarium, or stretch marks. This is a common thing during pregnancy, with fifty to ninety percent of all expectant mothers being affected by some type of visible marks. It generally emerges on the lower abdomen but can appear on the hips and thighs, on the breasts, and on the buttocks. When collagen is torn apart from the epidermis it forms stretch marks. In the latter months of pregnancy they can be a bright red or a darker almost purplish color. There are many things you can do to promote the flexibility of your epidermis even though it is mostly a genetic problem. Even during pregnancy women can regularly exercise to maximize healthy skin. Low impact and light aerobic exercises are modified activities that women can perform that are good for mother and child as well. Avoiding coffee and alcohol, controlling consumption of caffeine and carbonated drinks, and eating as nutritiously as possible are all steps that ladies should take during pregnancy. Cigarettes should also be avoided by expectant women. Women need to make their skin as pliant as possible to prevent and avert stretch marks. Well hydrated skin flexes better so be sure to drink plenty of water daily. To boost the immune system and have skin at maximum health it is suggested to take 1000mg of vitamin C every day. To prevent spotting and highlighting marks when exposed to the sun, use a sunscreen when going outdoors. Putting on a moisturizing cream to keep the skin hydrated and supple is also advisable. Because too much stress can lead to breakdowns in the immune system it is recommended to participate in some type of destressing activity such as stretching, cardiovascular activity, and meditation. Striae gravidarium can develop in obese people and weight lifters as well. The skin does not have enough time to adapt to shifts in weight when the body changes rapidly. Building muscle too fast results in stretch marks for weight lifters. Somebody can also get them from using creams and solutions that contain steroids for a long period of time. The good news is that they will usually fade and grow fainter in color after a period of time. Stretch marks can be dehydrated and irritated as well as unattractive even though they are not painful. They are caused when the skin is expanded and altered faster than the collagen fibers can sustain it. Genetic make-up, which for some is too bad, is the dominant factor when it comes to getting striae gravidarium. There is a high chance you will be affected by them if your mom and aunts or sisters had them. Besides genes, other factors that cause stretch marks are eating habits, physical activity level, and lifestyles. There are many of products out there that promise to be able to prevent and heal stretch marks to make them vanish and disappear. While generally unproven to have any lasting effects, some may do a little good. There are many surgical techniques, but they can be time consuming and very expensive. Often seeing a physician may be the only way to minimize stretch marks for some women. This type of surgery is not recommended until later because many times the body will still have some growing or alternating to do.
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