Dark line on the abdomen
Overview
Dark line on the abdomen (Linea Nigra): What is it?
Linea Nigra (from Latin "black line") is a dark vertical stripe that runs from the pubic area to the navel, and sometimes higher. It appears in most pregnant women, usually in the second trimester. This is an absolutely normal and harmless phenomenon.
Cause of appearance
The appearance of this line is linked to the same pregnancy hormones that cause darkening of the nipples and areolae, and can also lead to pigment spots on the face (melasma). These hormones stimulate the production of melanin — the pigment responsible for skin color. The "white line" (linea alba), which is present in all people, simply darkens and becomes visible.
It is not possible to influence the emergence of the line, but its excessive darkening can be prevented by protecting the abdominal skin from direct sunlight. Usually, Linea Nigra lightens on its own and disappears within a few months after delivery.
Recommendations
protection
Sun protection
moisturizing
Skin moisturizing
patience
Patience
monitoring
Monitoring
Home care
- Protect the skin from the sun, moisturize the skin.
When to see a doctor
- If there is a change in color or pain.
Seek care urgently
- Change in color
- Pain
- Itching
- Rash
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