Stretch marks can predict the pelvic disorder in women

A new study has found that women who have stretch marks may face triple the risk having a pelvic disorder known as pelvic prolapse, than women who don't.

As a part of the study, a team of researchers led by Alexa Kimball of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, reviewed results from a survey completed by 116 patients with skin or bladder problems ranging in age from 25 to 90 years.

Pelvic prolapse is a weakening of the web of muscles at the base of the pelvis which is important for holding the pelvic organs - the uterus and bladder - in place. The condition can result pain, loss of bladder control, and in some cases can lead to the organs actually sliding down from where they should be held.

According to New Scientist, the researchers found that while among women who had weakened pelvic function, classified as prolapse, 55 percent reported having stretch marks, but only 25 percent of among the group of women who had stretch marks suffered from pelvic prolapse.

The researchers say that stretch marks could be used to identify those women at risk of pelvic prolapse and counsel them about lifestyle changes that could reduce their chances of developing the disorder.