Postpartum diastasis recti

Why do the abdominal muscles separate?

Abdominal separation, also known as rectus diastasis, means your belly sticks out because the rectus abdominis muscles separate during pregnancy. These two flat and parallel muscles are separated by the linea alba which is a thin line of connective tissue. Because of the increased pressure during pregnancy this tissue bridge stretches out and cannot work as effectively cohesive as before.

This condition commonly affects pregnant women and people with class II-III obesity but in some cases it occurs in newborns or can be induced by regular hard physical work.

The separation of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy is part of a natural process in favor of providing a bigger space for the fetus. The unpleasant complications occur if the postpartum body cannot regenerate properly and the linea alba doesn’t regain its original shape and strength.

The following symptoms refer to this condition: a visible bulge that protrudes just above or below the belly button, lower back pain, poor posture, saggy belly, abdominal discomfort and muscle weakness. If You experience some of the mentioned, it’s highly suggested to consult a specialist in order to confirm an accurate diagnosis. This health condition can affect your whole body, your posture and digestion too, and may cause severe long-term complications without the right treatment.

The diastasis recti is more common in case of having weak connective tissue, twin pregnancy or a heavy baby but often occurs after c-sections or after the second/third/etc pregnancies or even after a huge weight loss.

The most common remedy for diastasis recti is physiotherapy and strengthening. The traditional therapeutic methods like medical gymnastics and doing an exercise program can be effectively complemented and fastened by neuromuscular electrical stimulation.