Pregnancy Symptoms: Making Peace with Stretch Marks

What to do about stretch marks? They are just one of the many pregnancy symptoms you may experience. They're hard (maybe even impossible?!) to prevent and even harder to get rid of. So here's an idea—instead of stressing over stretch marks, you might just learn to live with them. We know, we know: easier said than done, but before you call us crazy, consider these ways to help you make peace with your stretch marks:

• Keep in mind that the majority of pregnant women develop stretch marks (up to 90%, actually!) so far from being alone, you're actually in really good company! There's no reason to feel like a freak for having stretch marks, 'cause almost every other mom on the playground has those pregnancy symbols, too.
  
• And speaking of "pregnancy symbols", how about trying to see stretch marks as a sign of motherhood— a reminder of being pregnant and giving birth. Ok, so maybe it's not as pretty a pregnancy present as your gorgeous little babe, but it's a badge of honor, right? Just keep telling yourself that and you'll feel better ... really!
  
• Stretch marks give your body character! They make you uniquely you and even if you don't love the looks of them, it's likely that no one other than you even notices them at all. Plus, all those super models you see in the magazines? Don't think those chicks don't have 'em too—they just happen to have better makeup artists, photographers and Photoshoppers than you do!
  
• Learn to love yourself— imperfections and all. You're beautiful just as you are! (If anyone asks, tell 'em we said so!)
  

Stretch marks may be one of the only pregnancy symptoms that stay with you after you give birth. If you can't get rid of them, you might as well learn to love them, right?