The linea nigra, meaning “black line,” is a mark that many women experience during pregnancy. This dark line of hyperpigmentation, typically appearing from the navel to the pubic area, is most common during the second and third trimesters. While the cause of the linea nigra is largely unknown, many believe it to be hormones related to pregnancy. Although the linea nigra is associated with pregnancy, some women experience it even when not pregnant. In this blog post, we will discuss the potential causes and treatments for the linea nigra when not pregnant. We will also explore lifestyle habits that can help alleviate this common condition. Ultimately, this blog post will provide readers with an understanding of the linea nigra in both pregnant and non-pregnant women. So if you’re experiencing the linea nigra, then look no further. We will walk you through all the possible treatments and lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce
Typically it measures around a centimeter in width and is a vertical line from your belly button to your pubic bone.
Width of the linea nigra may increase during pregnancy.
Can also extend up to the upper abdomen.
Prominence may vary depending on your skin tone.
Dark color of the line can vary from brown to grayish-black.
Linea nigra is different from melasma (mask of pregnancy), a skin condition with dark patches on the face. The origin of melasma is also due to hormonal variations, and patches may stay for long or disappear after pregnancy.
Related:
When Does Linea Nigra Appear During Pregnancy?
The dark line appears as a result of the pregnancy’s hormonal changes. Following are the clinical features of linea nigra (3):
The line usually appears in the second trimester; however, it can appear anytime during the pregnancy.
The line may naturally fade into a lighter shade after childbirth and become indistinguishable at times. In some cases, the line may stay for longer.
The line can reappear in subsequent pregnancies.
Related: Second Pregnancy: Symptoms, Differences & Ways To Cope With Them
What does the linea nigra look like?
The linea nigra, which runs from your pubic bone to your belly button, is between 1/4 and 1/2 inches wide. In some instances, it extends toward your breasts past the belly button. It can appear brown or light black and is darker than the color of your skin. Your linea nigra maintains its same width from top to bottom. It’s nothing to be concerned about and doesn’t mean your pregnancy or skin are having problems.
FAQ
Can PCOS cause linea nigra?
This leads to increased melanin and darkening of the skin. While this most often occurs during pregnancy, it can happen with other hormonal changes such as with the use of birth control pills or with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Linea nigra can also occur in healthy babies and children.
What hormones cause linea nigra?
Linea nigra is specifically caused by increased levels of MSH, estrogen, or progesterone during pregnancy. As those levels return to normal following birth, your skin will, too. It may take up to a few months for your linea nigra to fade completely following birth.
Why do I still have linea nigra?
The good news is that once you have your baby, linea nigra typically starts fading in the months following delivery. But for some women, it never completely goes away, and it may come back if you get pregnant again. And, unfortunately, there’s really nothing you can do to safely prevent or treat it.
