Sensitivity and the linea negra

[OvenSeeksBun]

I've just developed a linea negra (the dark line that goes down the centre of your belly), and since then I have noticed that the area directly above and below my belly button is extremely tender to the touch. It hurts to press on it. Any ideas of what this might be? I'm feeling great otherwise, I haven't gained a lot of weight so my belly hasn't expanded to epic proportions - yet!) I'm 30w3d now. Baby seems happy and active in there.

[lillymonster]

I had linea negra with my first, but no sensitivity. This time I don't have it, but I have the sensitivity you are talking about. I am not sure if they are related or not.

[Blanca78]

I'm by no means an expert, but it makes sense that the two would be linked. From what I've read, the linea negra appears where the two sets/halves of the abdominal wall separate due to pressure from the growing baby. Since a previously integrated set of muscles is pulling apart, I would think that would contribute to sensitivity, as would the increased pressure of the baby's size...

[WifeofAnt]

I'm not sure they're related, they just happen to be in the same place. The linea nigra is a result of rising estrogen causing increased melatonin in the skin. Some places of skin are more sensitive than others. The midline of the abdomen where the skin grew together, the areolas, and sometimes in other places like the face (as in the mask of pregnancy).