Understanding Diastasis Recti: A Common Post-Pregnancy Issue for Women
Pregnancy is a transformative experience for women, both physically and emotionally. While the birth of a child is a miraculous event, it can also bring about various changes in a woman’s body. One such common post-pregnancy issue is diastasis recti. In this blog post, we will explore what diastasis recti is, its causes, symptoms, and how women can manage and recover from it.
What is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti, often referred to as “abdominal separation,” is a condition that occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles, the muscles that run vertically down the front of the abdomen, separate or diverge due to the stretching and pressure placed on them during pregnancy. This separation creates a gap between the left and right sides of the abdominal muscles, and it can cause various health and aesthetic concerns. Studies suggest that it occurs in up to 66% of pregnant women during their third trimester. More significantly, it persists long-term in approximately 30% of women.
Abdominal separation can be along the length of the abdominal muscles, or just above the belly button, or just below the belly button.
Causes of Diastasis Recti
The primary cause of diastasis recti is the physical stress that pregnancy places on the abdominal muscles. As the baby grows, the uterus expands, and the abdominal muscles must stretch to accommodate the growing fetus. Multiple pregnancies, carrying a large baby, or poor abdominal muscle tone can increase the risk of developing diastasis recti. It is very common for women to not realize they have this condition. Many women simply assume that their tummy is protruding post-pregnancy (mummy-tummy or pooch) due to leftover baby-weight. Sadly, that is not the case. It can endure for a relatively short period of time, or become a life-long condition if not properly managed.
Symptoms of Diastasis Recti
1. Visible Bulge: One of the most noticeable symptoms of diastasis recti is a visible bulge or gap in the middle of the abdomen, especially when a person is engaging their core or attempting to sit up from a lying position.
2. Lower Back Pain: Women with diastasis recti may experience lower back pain, as the weakened abdominal muscles can contribute to poor posture and back strain.
3. Core Weakness: Diastasis recti can lead to core weakness, making everyday activities, such as lifting objects or carrying a baby, more challenging.
4. Digestive Issues: Some individuals with diastasis recti may also experience digestive issues, as the abdominal muscles play a role in supporting the digestive system.
Managing and Recovering from Diastasis Recti
The good news is that diastasis recti can be managed and improved with proper care and exercise. Here are some steps women can take:
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you suspect you have diastasis recti, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or a specialist in women’s health, to get a proper diagnosis and personalized guidance.
2. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can be a valuable resource in recovering from diastasis recti. A physical therapist can recommend exercises that help strengthen the core and close the gap between the abdominal muscles.
3. Core-Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises, such as pelvic tilts, transverse abdominal muscle activation, and kegel exercises, can help improve core strength and support the healing of diastasis recti. This is where you can opt for a high-tech solution such as the B-Shape TMC device to tone the abdominal muscles and/or the B-Pulse device to tone the pelvic floor muscles.
4. Avoid Straining Movements: It’s important to avoid movements and activities that can strain the abdominal muscles, such as heavy lifting, or movements that exacerbate the condition.
5. Supportive Garments: Some women find relief and support from wearing abdominal binders or support garments designed to aid in diastasis recti recovery.
6. Surgery: As a last case resort this is a possibility, however, like any surgical intervention it comes with some risks and of course recovery time.
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Diastasis recti is a common issue that affects many women after pregnancy. While it can be concerning, it’s essential to remember that with the right care, exercise, and guidance, recovery is possible. Consulting with healthcare professionals and taking the necessary steps to strengthen the core can help women regain their abdominal strength and overall well-being, allowing them to fully embrace the joys of motherhood while feeling their best. Even if you have had this condition for 10, 20 years, or more, it is possible to reverse it.
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