Over time they may diminish, but will not disappear completely. Stretch marks form during pregnancy, usually during the last trimester, and usually on the belly, but also commonly occurring on the breasts, thighs, hips, lower back and buttocks, are known as striae gravidarum. Stretch marks are caused by tearing of the dermis. This is often from the rapid stretching of the skin associated with rapid growth or rapid weight changes. Stretch marks may also be influenced by hormonal changes associated with puberty, pregnancy, bodybuilding, or hormone replacement therapy.
Amherst is an undergraduate-only campus, with a population of right around 1,800 students. Amherst belongs to the Five Colleges Consortium (including Smith, Mount Holyoke, Hampshire, and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst).
UMass Amherst also offers the option of pursuing a Dual Degree - earning two separate degrees simultaneously. If that interests you, you must call 545-1311 to make an appointment with Professor Lynn Phillips, the Chief Undergraduate Advisor. A Dual Degree requires: 150 credits taken in consecutive semesters.