How to Prevent Stretch Marks after Delivery
by Kamen

Stretch marks form when your skin is stretched rapidly as happens during pregnancy. Most women develop stretch marks during the later trimesters of pregnancy though some women start to develop them as soon as their bellies start growing. Stretch marks appear as small indented streaks on the skin. They develop when the skin is pulled by rapid stretching. When the skin is overstretched, the production of collagen is interrupted. Once the creation of the protein that strengthens the tissues of your skin is decreased, stretch marks start to form because the tissues of your skin can easily break.

One of the most ironic aspects of having a baby is that although my body had performed the ultimate epitome of womanhood, to supply the nourishment that allows a fetus to develop into a human being and give birth, I never felt more ugly, fat and unattractive. Many doctors and nurses describe the emotional changes that women go through after childbirth as postpartum depression. Removing stretch marks with a stretch mark removal cream can be very effective IF you choose the right type of cream. It is advisable that you use a high quality stretch mark removal cream to make it really work for you. A good cream will smoothen the skin out first and then gradually bring the skin back together to fade the stretch marks.

Another very effective idea of stretch removal is practicing toning exercises in the affected area. This is very effective and gradually one can see that the marks will fade out. Many women also prefer combination of aloe vera and lemon juice as both of them are natural ingredients. But the marks will not disappear after applying this combination, but it will make the stretch marks less visible on the skin. After you have done whatever is necessary during the first three trimesters, there are certain steps you can take even after your delivery to try and eliminate stretch marks. For one thing you must continue massaging cream on your stomach to keep the skin soft.

Stretch marks are also caused by extreme stretching of the skin, which keeps the skin from returning to its original condition. Pregnant women and obese children get stretch marks on their body relatively easier. They are deep scars that appear as stripes on the skin. They are commonly found on the stomach, legs and shoulders. It can appear on the other parts of the body also. It is advisable to avoid sun exposure for about 5-6 weeks prior to the treatment. In the unavoidable situation where one has to go out, then application of sunscreen lotion is recommended so as to prevent the skin from being exposed to sun.

Regularly moisturize your skin. Do this from the start of the first trimester. Use oils or creams rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin E. Many expensive stretch mark creams and lotions have cocoa butter which claims to prevent the occurrence. If you want to prevent the stretch marks avoid scratching of your skin. Excessive scratching though give temporary relief, but it is found to be the major cause for developing stretch marks. If your skin is getting itchy use moisturizing creams to relief itchiness and try to avoid scratching of skin.