Would an Extremely Strong Core Prevent Stretch Marks by Keeping the Size of the Belly Down?

asked 7 months ago by pavel_chekov in Long Island, NY
Latest answer by Remus Repta, MD
Question viewed 113 times
Tags: stretch marks, muscle

If I worked out my core to develop strength, as in body builder type very strong core with a lot of muscle mass and strength, would this prevent the swelling of the belly during pregnancy? I understand obviously that the baby is going to take up some room, but can you minimize it by adding a thick layer of muscle? (I'm thinking, make this a priority for 1-2 years before becoming pregnant and make sure that core is rock solid and could practically deflect a Mack truck.)

5 answers to Would an Extremely Strong Core Prevent Stretch Marks by Keeping the Size of the Belly Down?

I think it can help, but there are other factors involved in stretch marks

Hello, Stretch marks are tears in the dermis of the skin. When and how they occur is dependant on a number of factors some of which you can control and others that you cannot. Staying fit and not being overweight will help and that is something that you can control. Obviously you cannot control your genetics or the size of the baby. All the best, Dr Repta

Remus Repta, MD
Phoenix Plastic Surgeon

Does strong 'core' imply less stretch marks with pregnancy?

Hi, I'm not sure if this would work, but it certainly would not hurt. Best to you and your upcoming pregnancy! Let us all know how you do! Dr. H

Gary M. Horndeski, MD
Houston Plastic Surgeon

Working out to prevent stretch marks before pregnancy -- good muscles but more importantly great skin

Thank you for your question. Yes, staying in great shape can help. Whether or not you get stretch marks though is a function of how much stress is placed on your skin and what capacity your skin has to snap back. Preserving and protecting skin elasticity is key to preventing stretch marks. There are thing you can control and things you can't control. Things you can control are: How physically fit you are at the time you get pregnant, what your weight is at the time... more

J. Jason Wendel, MD
Nashville Plastic Surgeon

Stretch Marks after Pregnancy?

Thank you for the interesting question. Unfortunately there is no evidence that developing stronger/thicker abdominal wall muscles will necessarily prevent “swelling of the belly during pregnancy” and/or stretch marks. It will certainly do no harm to work out hard prior to pregnancy but don't be heartbroken if you develop stretch marks nevertheless. Best of luck with your workout regimen and future pregnancies.

Tom J. Pousti, MD
San Diego Plastic Surgeon

www.poustiplasticsurgery.com

Muscle strengthening

Keeping your body on top shape is always a good plan. Certainly good muscle tone will be a benefit to you. The things you can not control is the tissue between the abs. that stretches during pregnancy as well as the skin. This all occurs and depends on your genetics, size of the person, size of the baby, etc. Staying fit is important but can not prevent changes from pregnancy although it may lessen them.

Michael Hueneke, MD
Nashville Plastic Surgeon

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