Stretch marks

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Definition

Stretch marks (striae) are pink, reddish or purplish indented streaks that often appear on the abdomen, breasts, upper arms, buttocks and thighs. Stretch marks are very common in pregnant women, especially during the last half of pregnancy.

You may be concerned about these bright streaks on your skin, but stretch marks are not serious and fade over time. In some cases, however, widespread stretch marks are a sign of a medical condition such as Cushing's syndrome or another adrenal gland disease. Treatments can lessen the appearance of stretch marks, but won't completely remove them.

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Symptoms