Correlation between stretchmarks and tearing?

[theressomethingaboutmarie]

I've been wondering about this. I've always had a tendency to get stretchmarks (despite not being overweight) and have developed a few on my tummy (30 wks pg). Given that my skin doesn't appear to have any elasticity, I wondered if that would mean I would be more likely to tear or need an episiotomy during birth?

I'd be interested in other's thoughts on this.

very few stretch marks
no tearing

Same as hoolagirl. No stretchmarks, but lots of tearing (and then an episiotomy just for fun!).

I'm guessing if there is a correlation, and I'm not sure there is one, but if there is, then it'll presumably be to do with the elasticity of the skin. I have a joint condition called hypermobility syndrome, where my ligaments are too stretchy and it causes joint damage. It's something to do with too much collagen, and I do remember a physio saying to me that giving birth would be a doddle for me. I'm not sure that's to do with the stretchiness of my ligaments and hence the baby's passage through my pelvis or due to the general stretchiness of my skin, as one of the diagnostic tests she did was to stretch my skin and see how much elasticity it had. I'll have to let you know... I've got quite a few stretch marks from teen growth spurt on my hips and boobs, but at 33 weeks nothing on my tummy (so far, fingers crossed!!)

BTW talking of stretch marks did anyone see how to look good naked on e4 last night. It was very interesting to see the cheapest stretch mark cream they tried was the most effective. Proves all the marketing guff is just that doesn't it? the strivectin at £135 came a very poor fourth!!

i wouldn't worry- you're designed down below to stretch more than your normal skin is.

I didn't have a tear with DS, and some small stretchmarks.

More stretchmarks this time...but i'm sure my doo-dah is up to the job and will stretch to suitable proportions!

First prg no stretch marks no tears. Second small stretch marks, small tear, but then that could have had something to do with the fact that ds was 2lb heavier than dd!!