QuestionMy teenage daughter is 7 months pregnant. She would like to know what she can do to avoid stretch marks on her stomach. Thanks for your time.
AnswerThe development of stretch marks during pregnancy are mostly determined by genetics and somewhat by fitness level. Creams don't work. Save your money and don't buy into the hype.
As your daughter is young she has a good chance of avoiding them if she went into pregnancy at an ideal weight and good fitness level.
As maternal health and fetal health are one in the same, the best thing for your daughter to be doing is daily brisk walking for 30 minutes. This will greatly improve her endurance in preparation for labor, strengthen her immune system, regulate her glucose levels, and strengthen her baby's cardiovascular system.
Additionally, she could join a regular or prenatal aqua-aerobics class or prenatal yoga class.
