Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

Pregnancy-linea nigra

07/06/2005 02:12AM

Question:

I`ve never been pregnant, but I have a linea nigra. Will that darken when I do become pregnant? Right now it`s a shade or two darker than my natural skin tone.

Answer:

A linea nigra, which is the dark line that runs from the belly button to the top of the pubic hair, may get darker during pregnancy. The hormones in pregnancy are thought to stimulate more melanin which is responsible for darkening the skin. This tends to happen during the second trimester of pregnancy. The linea nigra usually disappears a few months after delivery; but may remain in some women.

For more information:

Go to the Women’s Health health topic.