This dark line may appear between the umbilicus (belly-button) and the symphysis pubis (pubic bone); in some pregnant women it may extend as high as the sternum (the bone between the breasts). It is a hormone-induced excess production of brown material (pigment) in the skin cells in this area. After delivery, the line begins to fade, though it may never completely disappear.

Last modified: Friday, 11 July 2014, 1:13 PM