Diastasis Recti: What Every Expectant Parent Needs to Know
It’s a tale as old as time, right? Your mom or your friends tell you that ever since they had a baby, they can’t help but pee with every sneeze. While this is common- and I’m talking about up to 60% of people postpartum- suffer from occasional incontinence, it’s not actually the “norm”. Diastasis Recti is a common condition that affects many people, particularly those who have had children. This condition is characterized by a separation of the abdominal muscles or the “six-pack”, which creates a gap and can cause a protruding belly along with other symptoms. It can be difficult and in some cases, impossible to eliminate with diet and exercise alone. We’re here to provide important information about what causes it, how it may be treated, and a few local resources available in the Seattle area.
Causes of Diastasis Recti
During pregnancy the weight of your growing baby and the hormonal changes (like relaxin) that occur can weaken the abdominal muscles and cause them to separate. As your body changes during pregnancy, the way you stand or sit can affect more than just your comfort level. In fact, certain postures can actually reduce the pressure inside your abdomen, which may contribute to D.R. This condition is also common in newborns, but they typically outgrow it.
What does Diastasis Recti Feel like?
It will feel different for different people and some people may not feel anything at all, while others may experience symptoms such as:
A visible bulge or "pooch" in the abdominal area
A feeling of weakness or instability in the core
Lower back pain
Pain during sex
Pelvic/hip pain
Urine leaking when you sneeze or cough
It's important to note that not everyone with Diastasis Recti will experience symptoms, and some people may not be aware that they have the condition until they are examined by a healthcare professional. it's important to talk to your provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
How may Diastasis Recti be Treated?
The treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be treated with exercises that strengthen the abdominal muscles, such as pelvic tilts, heel slides, and abdominal compressions. More severe cases can require surgery to repair the separation of the muscles. It's important to note that not all exercises are created equal when it comes to Diastasis Recti. Certain exercises, such as crunches and planks, can actually make the condition worse by putting pressure on the abdominal muscles. It’s best to work with a qualified physical therapist who has experience working with clients with Diastasis Recti to develop a safe and effective exercise program. A treatment typically includes exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles, pelvic floor muscles, and other supporting muscles, augmenting overall posture, and possibly combining physical therapy sessions with manual therapy.
Resources near Seattle, Washington
6. The Tummy Team: is an online resource that provides educational resources, online courses, and and more.
Whether you're experiencing mild or severe symptoms, it's important to seek professional help and guidance to effectively manage the condition. With the right treatment plan, you can reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. This is so common and can usually be treated with proper exercises, physical therapy sessions, and posture modifications. It’s never too late to seek help and treatment.
