Over the last several months, your body has been going through many noticeable changes. Pregnancy can certainly do that.
But one surprising change for some pregnant women is a dark line that runs down the center of the belly. This line is called linea nigra (Latin for “black line”).
The linea nigra, also called the line of pregnancy, is a very common and harmless pigmentation change in the midline of the abdomen. About 90% of women will notice some type of skin darkening during pregnancy.
Here’s what you should know about why it appears, when you might notice it and when it typically goes away.
What is linea nigra?
Linea nigra is a vertical line that appears down the middle of your belly during pregnancy. This pregnancy line is often more visible in people with darker complexions.
The line usually:
- Goes from your pubic bone to your belly button
- Might continue up to your breastbone
- Can be light brown, dark brown or almost black
- May be thin or wider, depending on your skin tone and body
Most people don’t realize this line is always there. Before pregnancy, this same line is so light that you can’t see it. It’s called the linea alba (white line).
The linea alba is a band of tissue that runs vertically down the middle of your abdomen. It connects your abdominal muscles. Everyone has a linea alba, no matter their sex.
Why does linea nigra happen?
Experts don’t know the exact cause but pregnancy hormones are thought to play the biggest role.
“High estrogen levels during pregnancy are believed to increase melanin production by melanocytes,” said Laura Dellos, a certified nurse midwife with Banner - University Medicine. “These are special cells in our bodies that produce the pigment responsible for our natural skin color.”
As your hormone levels rise, your body might produce more melanin, which gives skin, hair and eyes their color. This extra pigment can cause common skin changes during pregnancy, such as:
- Linea nigra
- Darkening around the nipples and areolas
- Darker freckles or moles
- Melasma, also called the mask of pregnancy, which creates dark patches on the face
“No two people are exactly alike,” Dellos said. “Each pregnant person will notice these skin changes in different ways.”
When does linea nigra appear?
Most people notice this dark line during their second trimester, usually between 20 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. Some see it earlier or later. The line may also turn darker as your pregnancy continues, especially if you spend time in the sun.
Does linea nigra mean you’re having a boy or girl?
A common pregnancy myth says that if the line extends above your belly button, you’re having a boy and if it stops at the belly button, you’re having a girl. However, this is not true.
The appearance of linea nigra cannot predict your baby’s sex. The only reliable ways to find out during pregnancy are medical tests like genetic testing or ultrasound.
Interestingly, Dellos shared another theory about why this line might develop. She explained, “Newborns don’t see color well but can tell the difference between dark and light. Some believe the line, as well as darkening around the nipples, help guide the baby to the breast right after birth.”
While this idea is interesting, more research is needed to know if it is true.
When does linea nigra go away?
For many people, the line fades gradually after delivery as pregnancy hormone levels go back to normal. Dellos said it can take up to six months for the line to fade but sometimes it takes longer. For some, the line might not disappear completely. That’s normal and nothing to worry about.
Can you prevent linea nigra from appearing?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent linea nigra and you don’t need to treat it.
“This is just a normal change caused by pregnancy and there’s no need to use lotions or other remedies,” Dellos said.
Because sunlight can make skin pigmentation darker, protecting it may help make the line less noticeable. You can do this by:
- Wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when your belly is exposed
- Finding shade during the hottest hours
- Wearing loose, protective clothes when outdoors
Avoid using skin-lightening or bleaching creams during pregnancy. The best option is to let it fade naturally on its own.
When should you talk to your health care provider?
Linea nigra is not something to worry about. But pregnancy can bring other skin changes and it’s helpful to know which ones deserve a second look.
Contact your doctor or provider if you notice:
- A new dark spot with uneven borders or uneven color
- A mole that changes size, shape or color
- A rash on your belly or elsewhere
- Severe itching with small red bumps
- Pain, bleeding or sores on your skin
- Skin changes that concern you or appear suddenly
Bottom line
Seeing a dark line on your belly can surprise you but most of the time linea nigra is just a normal change that happens during pregnancy. It happens because of pregnancy hormones that darken your skin. It doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you or your baby.
This line usually doesn’t need treatment and often fades away a few months after you give birth. If you notice other skin changes, like a rash, severe itching or a mole that changes, talk to your health care provider for advice or see a Banner Health specialist.
FAQs
What is the dark line on my pregnant belly?
It is likely linea nigra, a vertical dark stripe that can appear during pregnancy.
Why does linea nigra develop in pregnancy?
Pregnancy hormones can increase skin pigment, which makes the natural line down the middle of your belly darker.
Is linea nigra harmful?
No. It is usually harmless and doesn’t mean something is wrong with you or your baby.
When does linea nigra appear?
It often shows up in the second trimester but it can happen earlier or later.
When does it go away?
It usually fades a few weeks or months after delivery but some people may keep a faint line longer.
Can I use creams to make it fade?
Avoid lightening or bleaching products during pregnancy unless your doctor says they are safe. Wearing sun protection and letting the line fade on its own is the safest choice.
