Linea Nigra During Pregnancy: What Do You Need to Know
As you embrace your pregnancy journey, your body undergoes several changes. You swell, gain weight, and there are changes in the skin. Pigmentation, itching, acne, etc are some of the pregnancy-related skin problems.
75 to 80% of you during your pregnancy may suffer from Linea Nigra. The Linea Nigra becomes more pronounced when you’re dark-skinned.
What causes Linea Nigra in pregnancy?
Scientifically, the exact reason for linea nigra isn’t known, the healthcare providers have shown that the placenta produces melanocyte-stimulating hormone to melanin. Melanin is responsible for the skin colours in your pregnant body. This is the same hormone that gives rise to darker areolas. Some other parts of the body like vaginal skin, nipples, and areola are also affected. Along with the melanin hormones, the high oestrogen hormonal levels are soaring thus darkening the skin darkens, and making Linea Nigra (the belly line) more noticeable.
Well! The pregnancy line is a beautiful reminder that there is another life developing inside you. There’s nothing to worry about with linea nigra. It is quite normal to have a pregnancy line.
Who can get Linea Nigra in pregnancy?
Linea nigra is common during pregnancy, but not every pregnant mummy will get it. Having a higher concentration of pigment-producing cells may increase the likelihood of developing linea nigra, but it is by no means a certainty. You are more prone to getting Linea Nigra in subsequent pregnancies if you have it once.
How to get rid of Linea Nigra in pregnancy?
Healthcare providers strongly advise using prescribed topical medications for effective treatment. Usually, it disappears after the baby’s birth, here are a few things to help you with Linea Nigra:
- Stay away from the sun. Use sunscreen with SPF 30. Alternatively, keep your belly covered. Exposure to the sun can make the line darker or take longer to fade.
- Avoid using bleaching creams. While pregnant, you should avoid using bleaching creams containing hydroquinone.
- Using makeup to cover your linea nigra is an option if the dark line bothers you or if it doesn't fade quickly.
However, Linea Nigra disappears, after a child’s birth, when the body will get back to normalcy.