Striae Gravidarum in Iranian Women: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Striae gravidarum (SG) is one of the most common connective tissue changes during pregnancy that may be causing concerns. The purpose of this study was to identify associated factors with striae gravidarum (SG) in pregnant women and their possible association with the characteristics of themselves and their newborns. A cross-sectional study of 224 primiparous women delivering at an educational and therapeutic center was conducted. The data were collected via questionnaire and physical examination. The presence, absence, and severity of striae were evaluated by Davey's score. Data were analyzed by using descriptive and analytical statistics (Chi-square test, t test). 81.3 percent of the participants had developed SG. Women who developed SG had gained significantly more weight during pregnancy (14.04 +/- 4.5 vs 12.2 kg +/- 4.6; P < 0.02) and had more body mass index (23.47 +/- 3.6 vs 21.76 +/- 2.8; p < 0.002). Family history of striae gravidarum in mother and sister have a significant association with the presence of SG. This study showed that genetic factors (family history striae gravidarum) and physical factors (weight gain during pregnancy and baseline body mass index) may have a very important role in developing striae gravidarum. The result of this study can help physicians to counsel Iranian pregnant women about their associated factors for striae gravidarum. [Nasim Bahrami, Mohammad Ali Soleimani, Hamid Sharif Nia, Reza Masoodi, Hoorieh Shaigan and Mitra Hekmat Afshar. Striae Gravidarum in Iranian Women: Prevalence and Associated Factors. Life Sci J 2012;9(4):3032-3037] (ISSN:1097-8135). http://www.lifesciencesite.com. 445