Stretch marks after pregnancy
stlinares
Posts: 23 Member
I'm starting this thread rather than highjacking the c-section scar thread.
With summer coming, I'm reminded how I will never wear a bikini or show my middrift out in public. After two pregnancies (second/last one was in 1995) I have stretch marks that extend from my pubic hair line (that's where they are the widest...look like tires tracks) to way above my navel. I'd have to wear bottoms up to my rib cage to hide them. lol
I'm not nearly as disgusted by my tummy as I use to be. I recall feeling so embarrassed of my abdomen when I was in my 20's. I read somewhere that stretch marks are genetic and that they are NOT preventable during pregnancy if one is genetically predisposed to get them. And I completely agree. I slathered coco butter all over my middle several times per day and kept scratching to a minimum. It didn't work. And yes they fade in color BUT if one has severe stretch marks, the skin is damaged. STRETCHED until it looks like it ripped. That's how mine are. It's quite ugly.
Anyway, when I look at myself in the mirror in just my underwear, if I dim the lights or stand just far enough away the stretch marks are not as noticeable and I actually like my figure. But those darn stretch marks!
Women who can get through a full term pregnancy without stretch marks are so lucky to have received those good skin genes. I have two good friends whose tummies are as smooth now as they were before their pregnancy. Not a ONE stretch mark!
With summer coming, I'm reminded how I will never wear a bikini or show my middrift out in public. After two pregnancies (second/last one was in 1995) I have stretch marks that extend from my pubic hair line (that's where they are the widest...look like tires tracks) to way above my navel. I'd have to wear bottoms up to my rib cage to hide them. lol
I'm not nearly as disgusted by my tummy as I use to be. I recall feeling so embarrassed of my abdomen when I was in my 20's. I read somewhere that stretch marks are genetic and that they are NOT preventable during pregnancy if one is genetically predisposed to get them. And I completely agree. I slathered coco butter all over my middle several times per day and kept scratching to a minimum. It didn't work. And yes they fade in color BUT if one has severe stretch marks, the skin is damaged. STRETCHED until it looks like it ripped. That's how mine are. It's quite ugly.
Anyway, when I look at myself in the mirror in just my underwear, if I dim the lights or stand just far enough away the stretch marks are not as noticeable and I actually like my figure. But those darn stretch marks!
Women who can get through a full term pregnancy without stretch marks are so lucky to have received those good skin genes. I have two good friends whose tummies are as smooth now as they were before their pregnancy. Not a ONE stretch mark!
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I have had stretch marks on my butt and thighs since puberty. They are white ones, so hard to see unless you are somewhat close. I used to loathe them and try things to get rid of them.
But now, I don't let it bother me. Stretch marks are part of being a woman (for most) and I don't let them stop me from wearing a bikini.
It also makes me sad when older women don't wear shorts because of spider veins or short sleeve shirts because of "flabby skin." I definitely plan to wear whatever I want (with modesty, of course) regardless of my skin or old age failings. Do your best to take care of your body, and after that, who cares?
Rock watcha got!:drinker:0 -
I feel you on that one! I totally agree that it is genetics. My mom has them too and she's itty-bitty. Not only do I have stretch marks, but my belly button stretched out and never went back to the way it was. I like monokinis. You can still look super sexy - some sexier than others - but not feel self conscious about your tummy.0
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I hate my stretch marks and I have plenty, but I still wear a two piece. Why shouldn't we, they are from creating a life(or in other cases losing an amazing amount of weight) and if people can't understand that then oh well, stop looking. I know its hard to love your body when its damaged but its the only one we get so I figure I'm just going to except mine and make it the best it can be, even with the flaws!0
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Good thing some people have a positive attitude. I, however, think they are ghastly to look at
Btw, awwastbrook, is that you in your avatar pic? If so, your back looks gorgeous!0
