Striae gravidarum: associated factors

Abstract

Background: Striae gravidarum (SG) is the most common change in connective tissue of pregnant women and may cause cosmetic concerns.

Objectives: To determine the frequency of SG in Iranian pregnant women and its possible associations with the characteristics of themselves and their newborns.

Methods: One hundred and eighteen primigravid pregnant women were included in this prospective observational study at their first prenatal visit, among them 114 completed the study and gave birth.

Results: One hundred (87.7%) of 114 women developed SG with a mean Davey's score of 4.04 +/- 2.47. The mean gestational age at which SG first appeared was 27.57 +/- 5.38 weeks. Family history of SG in mother, baseline and delivery body mass index, greatest abdominal and hip girths, newborn weight, height and head circumference were significantly associated with the presence of SG. All of these factors were also correlated with Davey's score.

Conclusion: Genetic and physical risk factors may be involved in the development of SG in primigravid women.