Our body goes through so many changes during pregnancy that it's hard to keep up. Each month brings something new. There are lots of books telling you what to expect of your body on the inside, but you're not always informed of the changes that happen on the outside. We're never so visually noticeable as when we are pregnant. While most of these changes are great, there's still a few that are not so great. I'll cover the not so great one and provide some tips.
Stretch marks - No one wants them but pretty much 90% of pregnant women end up with them. They start as pink and red streaks on your breasts and stomach. Aloe Vera, Vitamin E and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) aid within the prevention of stretch marks. Your local pharmacy or health store will have them and they're less expensive than the cosmetic lotions.
The Pregnancy Mask - Those dark splotchy spots that commonly appear and your forehead and cheeks. These are caused by an increase of pigmentation during pregnancy, approximately 50% of pregnant women experience it. To combat this pigmentation overload, stay out of the sun. Wear high SPF sunscreen and wear a hat.
Varicose Veins - These are the bulging and bluish vessels that used to be you veins. They are most prevalent on your legs and occasionally your arms which can be uncomfortable or even quite painful. The reason for the veins swelling like this is due to the increased blood circulation you need for your baby. * Walk or exercise as much as possible * Try to not stand for lengthy * Keep your feet up when sitting * Avoid sitting for lengthy intervals of time * Get sufficient vitamin C to improve the elasticity of one's veins * Wear support stockings
Acne and Pimples - It`s like puberty all over again, our hormones are again impacting the oil gland secretions. When pregnant you should not use particular medicated soaps and lotions because of chemicals they may have. Ask your cosmeticians or pharmacist which ones are right for you. But also, you will need to be extra diligent along with your facial hygiene. Cleanse with mild (non-scented - if you tend to get nauseous) soap and lukewarm water morning and night. Use fingertips only in a circling motion, no facecloths and no scrubbing. Too much washing and scrubbing will only irritate your pores further.
Itchy Stomach - The skin on your stomach has no recourse but to stretch and expand which will inevitably lead to dryness, itchiness and possibly stretch marks . Give yourself treats with moisturizing belly rubs, coco butter is excellent for this and also controls stretch marks. You'll be able to use calamine lotion if the itch just won't go away. Soothing baths with oil or oatmeal will help to get rid of the dryness.
Itchy Belly - Your beautiful big belly is growing into your tight skin causing dryness and itchiness. Keep your belly moisturized, which you should be doing anyway for stretch marks. You can use calamine lotion if the itch is persistent. Or enjoy a warm oatmeal bath. If the itching gets severe later in your pregnancy and it travels to other areas of your body, and is accompanied by nausea and fatigue, check with your doctor as it could be a sign of cholestasis, a liver problem.
Linea Nigra- Huh, so that's what it's called. The dark line that grows from your belly button to your crotch. The fact is that it's always been there, just not as dark or obvious. No fear, it will fade back to normal after birth.
Soon enough, your body will go back to normal, but your life will never be the same!
Stretch marks - No one wants them but pretty much 90% of pregnant women end up with them. They start as pink and red streaks on your breasts and stomach. Aloe Vera, Vitamin E and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) aid within the prevention of stretch marks. Your local pharmacy or health store will have them and they're less expensive than the cosmetic lotions.
The Pregnancy Mask - Those dark splotchy spots that commonly appear and your forehead and cheeks. These are caused by an increase of pigmentation during pregnancy, approximately 50% of pregnant women experience it. To combat this pigmentation overload, stay out of the sun. Wear high SPF sunscreen and wear a hat.
Varicose Veins - These are the bulging and bluish vessels that used to be you veins. They are most prevalent on your legs and occasionally your arms which can be uncomfortable or even quite painful. The reason for the veins swelling like this is due to the increased blood circulation you need for your baby. * Walk or exercise as much as possible * Try to not stand for lengthy * Keep your feet up when sitting * Avoid sitting for lengthy intervals of time * Get sufficient vitamin C to improve the elasticity of one's veins * Wear support stockings
Acne and Pimples - It`s like puberty all over again, our hormones are again impacting the oil gland secretions. When pregnant you should not use particular medicated soaps and lotions because of chemicals they may have. Ask your cosmeticians or pharmacist which ones are right for you. But also, you will need to be extra diligent along with your facial hygiene. Cleanse with mild (non-scented - if you tend to get nauseous) soap and lukewarm water morning and night. Use fingertips only in a circling motion, no facecloths and no scrubbing. Too much washing and scrubbing will only irritate your pores further.
Itchy Stomach - The skin on your stomach has no recourse but to stretch and expand which will inevitably lead to dryness, itchiness and possibly stretch marks . Give yourself treats with moisturizing belly rubs, coco butter is excellent for this and also controls stretch marks. You'll be able to use calamine lotion if the itch just won't go away. Soothing baths with oil or oatmeal will help to get rid of the dryness.
Itchy Belly - Your beautiful big belly is growing into your tight skin causing dryness and itchiness. Keep your belly moisturized, which you should be doing anyway for stretch marks. You can use calamine lotion if the itch is persistent. Or enjoy a warm oatmeal bath. If the itching gets severe later in your pregnancy and it travels to other areas of your body, and is accompanied by nausea and fatigue, check with your doctor as it could be a sign of cholestasis, a liver problem.
Linea Nigra- Huh, so that's what it's called. The dark line that grows from your belly button to your crotch. The fact is that it's always been there, just not as dark or obvious. No fear, it will fade back to normal after birth.
Soon enough, your body will go back to normal, but your life will never be the same!
About the Author:
Alex is a freelance graphic designer & marketing professional with a passion for writing. She knows the importance of looking and feeling your best when meeting new clients and believes in basic, natural skincare. If you liked this article, check out her advice in Anti-Aging Facial Exercises or The Natural Approfessionalach to Skincare.