Home / Pregnancy Concerns / Pregnancy Line – Linea Nigra
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.