Linea nigra

As Linea nigra (Latin for black line ') or Linea fusca (Latin for, brown line '), a dark discoloration of the linea alba is called in pregnancy. In the second trimester of pregnancy the linea alba darkens in some women. This discoloration is formed shortly after birth in most cases completely or at least significantly reduced.

The cause of this discoloration is considered the increased production of melanocyte- stimulating hormone. In very rare cases this discoloration occurs even without pregnancy.