The Linea Nigra: a Reflection of Pregnancy

The appearance of this line is linked with the hormonal changes that take place in a woman’s body throughout pregnancy. As a result, the line becomes more noticeable in the fourth or fifth month of pregnancy.

This small external change isn’t harmful in any way for pregnant women. Likewise, according to a study published by the University of Guayaquil in 2016, it’s important to perform ultrasounds and be aware of it. If you want to know what beauty hides behind the linea nigra, we invite you to keep reading.

Beliefs about the linea nigra

Why do superstitions center around the linea nigra? Many people still believe a certain myth that claims the linea nigra can indicate the baby’s gender. Traditionally, people said that if the line was darker above the belly button, the baby would be a girl. On the other hand, in the opposite case, the baby would be a boy.

However, we want to say that, even though there are some cases where the indication turned out the be true, there’s absolutely no scientific support proving the relationship between the linea nigra and a baby’s gender. In fact, it’s simply hearsay that spread far and wide many years ago. However, you can take it into account if you want.

How to prevent the linea nigra

We want to start off by saying that you can’t completely prevent the line from appearing. You can, however, follow all the right steps to take care of your skin during pregnancy, which will minimize stretchmarks.

For this reason, if you follow your gynecologist’s guidelines and apply the following tips, you could contribute to maintaining healthy skin during the nine months of pregnancy:

• Keep your breasts and abdomen area moisturized throughout your entire pregnancy. Apply a lot of lotion and make sure to do so regularly.
• Look for lotions that are enriched with vitamin E. Apply them two times a day, massaging your skin in a circular motion. You can also ask your partner to help you with the massage. This way, you’ll feel more relaxed.
• You should stay properly hydrated throughout the day. Sip on water every half hour if you can.
• Eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E. They’ll help your skin’s elasticity and ability to regenerate.

The pregnancy line usually disappears within three months of giving birth on its own. If the line doesn’t fade away, and if you also notice dark spots on your face, consult your dermatologist.

Why should you appreciate your linea nigra?

You might be asking yourself: “Why should I appreciate this dark line on my body?” Well, there are plenty of reasons. This line represents pregnancy, which marks a special time in every woman’s life. Furthermore, though you might not completely agree, many people think that the line is beautiful due to its meaning.

The linea nigra is life, it’s genesis, it’s the beginning. Don’t be ashamed of showing it. In fact, you should feel proud of having it.

In fact, these days with digital platforms, you can easily find creative ideas that’ll help you have fun with this mystic line. There are some mothers who paint their stomachs, going off the line. Then, there are others who show off how long it is.

The more daring bunch share witty lines on them. It’s the best line for writing something down! If you’re up for it, don’t forget to take a picture. Your child will get a good laugh at mom’s playfulness during pregnancy.

On the other hand, the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venerology explains that this line isn’t the only one that will make your pregnancy visible. Your nipples will also become darker and an occassional brown mark could appear on your face. However, these usually disappear a few months after giving birth.

The beautiful gift that hides behind the linea nigra

Now that we explained what the linea nigra is, we want you to feel proud of it. It’s nothing more than a reflection of the reproductive essence. Be grateful for this gift in the form of pregnancy and show off your linea nigra, if it appears.

If you fully understand this line, now, share this information with your partner, family members, or other pregnant women and enjoy every sign of life that your body gives you.