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Pregnancy Line – Linea Nigra

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The Pregnancy Line, which is more official called Linea


Nigra, is the dark line that develops across your belly during
pregnancy. It is possible that the line may have previously
been there, however because it was so light in color in went
unnoticed. Prior to line prior to pregnancy is light or pale line
is called the linea alba (white line). It runs from your navel
to the pubic bone. It darkens during pregnancy acquiring the
name linea nigra (black line).
The pregnancy line is never really black, however it is
brownish and darker in color. It I is usually about ¼ to ½
inch wide and stretches vertically down your belly from
the pubis to the umbilicus. The pregnancy line or linea
nigra usually grows darker as your pregnancy develops.
Although it can show earlier, this pregnancy line typically
shows up around the 5th month of pregnancy.

What Causes The Linea Nigra Or


Pregnancy Line?

The pregnancy line is a natural part of pregnancy. The


specific cause of the linea nigra is unknown, but it is believe
to be related to the changing hormones or the imbalance of
hormones as a result of your developing baby. One theory is
that melanocyte-stimulating hormone created by the placenta
is the main contributing factor. This hormone is also believe
to cause the darkening around the nipples.
What can you do to prevent the pregnancy line
There is nothing you can do to prevent the pregnancy line. It
is a natural part of pregnancy. The good news is that it
usually lessens and fades away shortly after the birth of your
baby.

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