The Pregnancy Chronicles Pt 7: The Postpartum Body - Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti is a condition many women suffer from postpartum, but not many people know what it is. Diastasis Recti is an abdominal condition where the 2 sides of the abdominal muscles separate during birth and don’t return to their original position afterwards.
This gap or separation can cause the abdominal wall muscles to become rounded and a little belly protrusion to appear.
Diastasis Recti can be seen on the right
The cause of Diastasis Recti (DR):
DR appears during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the expansion of the uterus. The linea alba is connective tissue that runs between the two sides of the abdominal wall and keeps the organs inside the body. During pregnancy, the linea alba thins and provides laxity to make space for the enlarged uterus. The expansion of this connective tissue allows for the baby to grow.
After delivery, hormone levels return to normal, and the linea alba generally thickens, however, it can’t return to its normal position/size because it’s lost elasticity resulting in Diastasis Recti.
Who is at risk of developing Diastasis Recti?
- Women who are very petite
- Women who are carrying multiple babies
- Women who have had multiple pregnancies
- Women with poor muscle tone
How to prevent Diastasis Recti!
Try using the roll method for getting out of bed or from the floor. This method helps protect the abdominal muscles that become vulnerable during pregnancy.
1. While lying on your back, bend your knees.
2. Roll onto your side. Keep your shoulders and hips together as a unit as you roll.
3. Place your bottom hand underneath your shoulder. Place your top hand in front of you at chest level
Exercises! Your pre and postnatal fitness specialist at Movability can show you exercises to help avoid developing DR.
How to fix Diastasis Recti!
Exercise is the first step used to help repair the separation.
If severe, surgery may be required to repair the gap and to avoid damage to internal organs.
Not sure if you have Diastasis Recti? Not sure where to begin? Give us a call at (905)763-4000 and book a complimentary 15-minute consultation with our Pre and Postnatal fitness specialist. See how our doctors and manual therapists can help you.