Stretch Marks

Is it possible to prevent stretch marks? Or, if I do get them, can I make them go away?

One of the most dreaded effects of pregnancy is stretch marks. From belly to bottom, stretch marks hit over half of pregnant women. Stretch marks happen because your skin is expanding at such a rapid rate, particularly in the sixth and seventh months. You’re more likely to get stretch marks if you are carrying multiples or a big baby or gained weight especially quickly. Genetics also play a factor -- if your mother or sister got stretch marks, you probably will, too.

Although there are no surefire ways to prevent stretch marks, there are a few measures you can take. No hard evidence supports that lotions and creams work, but moisturizing and staying hydrated are great ways to protect your skin’s elasticity. The good news is, stretch marks should fade considerably in the months after you deliver. If you’re later unhappy with your skin’s appearance, see a dermatologist for treatment options such as prescription creams and laser therapy.

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Can air bags harm a pregnant driver or passenger?

Expert Answers

The BabyCenter Editorial Team

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently reviewing the effect of air bags on pregnant women, saying only that pregnant women should sit as far back from the air bag as possible. Indeed, all front-seat passengers should move the seat as far back as possible and tilt it slightly. This helps maximize the distance between the driver's chest and the steering wheel. Avoid leaning or reaching forward, and sit back against the seat with as little slack in the belt as possible — this minimizes your forward movement in a crash and lets the air bag operate correctly.

The NHTSA recommends that pregnant women wear their seatbelts with the shoulder portion positioned over the collarbone and the lap portion placed under the abdomen as low as possible on the hips and across the upper thighs — never above or over the abdomen. Until the NHTSA comes out with air bag guidelines for pregnant women, follow these suggestions and make sure you ride only with safe drivers.

Is it safe to use a seat belt during pregnancy?

Expert Answers

Ann Linden, certified nurse-midwife

Absolutely! In fact, it's dangerous not to. Research has repeatedly shown that the best way to protect your growing baby is to protect yourself: Wear a properly positioned safety belt each and every time you're in a car or truck.

To avoid injuring yourself and your baby, though, the seat belt must be properly fastened. The lap belt should be secured below your belly, low and snug on your hipbones. Never wear the belt across or above your belly. During a crash, the sudden jolt from a belt in this position could cause the placenta to tear away from the uterus.

If possible, warm up the inside of your car before heading out in cold weather. That way you can take off heavy winter coats and sweaters, which can cause the seat belt to slide up on your belly.

Always use the shoulder belt, too, which should fit snugly between your breasts. If the shoulder belt cuts across your neck, reposition your seat or the belt so it fits better. Do not place the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back.

Air bags offer additional protection, so make sure yours are turned on. Air bags do not, however, replace the need to always wear your seat belt. (In fact, an air bag can be dangerous if it opens and you're not securely buckled up.)

When you're driving, adjust the front seat so it's as far away as possible from the steering wheel and dashboard while still allowing you to reach the pedals comfortably.

By the way, if you're in a car accident — even a minor one and you feel just fine — you should see your healthcare provider without delay so she can make sure that both you and your baby are unharmed.

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