Week 37 • Third Trimester
Stretch Marks at Week 37
Pink, red, or purple lines on skin
📆 Third Trimester Overview
Very common - 50-90% develop stretch marks
🔍 What Causes Stretch Marks at Week 37?
- •Rapid skin stretching
- •Genetic predisposition
- •Hormone effects on skin
- •Rapid weight gain
- •Skin collagen and elastin tearing
- •Cortisol levels affecting skin
✓ Normal Signs
- ✓Pink, red, or purple lines
- ✓On belly, breasts, thighs, hips
- ✓Slightly raised initially
- ✓Fade to silvery after pregnancy
⚠ Concerning Signs
- ⚠Usually no concerning signs - cosmetic issue only
💊 Relief Strategies
- ✓Moisturize skin frequently
- ✓Stay hydrated
- ✓Gradual, steady weight gain
- ✓Eat nutrient-rich diet
- ✓Vitamin E oil or cream
- ✓Cocoa butter or shea butter
- ✓Accept they're largely genetic
- ✓Know they fade significantly postpartum
🏥 When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- ⚠Rarely needs medical attention - cosmetic only