Stretch marks most likely in third trimester

Posted on 11 Feb, 2012

Being pregnant is an amazing experience, and one that most women treasure despite the sickness, mood swings and gradual ballooning. Few women are left unmarked by the experience, however, and the third trimester can be a difficult time for many. Moving around or even sleeping can become a bit of an effort, as this is the time that baby goes through a period of rapid growth.

The other unwelcome consequence of this is the appearance of stretch marks. The skin is put under enormous pressure during this time and is literally stretched beyond its elastic limits. The dreaded stretch marks can appear all over the stomach area, of course, but can also appear on the breasts, buttocks and thighs.

While applying creams may help to keep the skin as supple as possible, there is no proof that they will actually prevent the marks from appearing. Some studies appear to show that the act of massaging can be just as effective as the products themselves.

There is, however, another type of treatment that can help if extensive stretch marks make an unwelcome appearance: stretch mark removal involves using microdermabrasion to remove damaged skin and laser to stimulate the production of collagen and new skin cells, and can offer impressive results.