Is your pregnancy tummy not going away after the baby birth? THIS might be the reason

Are you tired of your mommy pooch or mom belly hanging long after baby birth? This may not be due to abdominal fat on your belly but a medical condition. Diastasis recti , often colloquially referred to as "mommy pooch" or "mummy tummy," is a condition characterized by the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, which are the muscles that run vertically down the midline of the abdomen.

This condition commonly occurs during pregnancy due to the stretching and weakening of the abdominal muscles to accommodate the growing fetus. While diastasis recti typically manifests during pregnancy, it can persist postpartum , causing a protruding belly or a bulge in the abdominal area that may not resolve on its own. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for diastasis recti is crucial for individuals, particularly new mothers, who may be experiencing this condition.

Symptoms of Diastasis Recti that should be noticed:

Diastasis recti often presents with noticeable symptoms:

1. Visible Bulge or Protrusion: One of the most apparent signs of diastasis recti is the presence of a bulge or protrusion in the midsection, particularly noticeable when engaging the abdominal muscles or when the individual is in a supine position.

2. Weakness in the Core: Individuals with diastasis recti may experience weakness in the core muscles , leading to difficulties with activities that require abdominal strength, such as lifting heavy objects or performing certain exercises.

3. Lower Back Pain: Diastasis recti can contribute to lower back pain due to the lack of support from the weakened abdominal muscles, leading to strain on the back muscles.

Causes of Diastasis Recti you should know:

Several factors contribute to the development of diastasis recti, with pregnancy being the primary cause. During pregnancy, the uterus expands to accommodate the growing fetus, placing significant pressure on the abdominal muscles. This continuous stretching and separation of the rectus abdominis muscles can result in diastasis recti. Other contributing factors include:

1. Multiple Pregnancies: Women who have had multiple pregnancies are at a higher risk of developing diastasis recti, as the repeated stretching of the abdominal muscles can exacerbate the condition.

2. Large Fetal Size: Dr. Kiran Yadav, Senior Consultant - Obstetrician & Gynaecology
Gurugram, Gurgaon says, “Carrying a larger-than-average baby or multiples (e.g., twins or triplets) increases the likelihood of developing diastasis recti due to the increased strain on the abdominal muscles.”

3. Excessive Weight Gain: Rapid or excessive weight gain during pregnancy can further stress the abdominal muscles, increasing the risk of diastasis recti.

4. Poor Posture: Maintaining poor posture, both during pregnancy and postpartum, can exacerbate diastasis recti by placing additional strain on the weakened abdominal muscles.


Treatment options for Diastasis Recti

While diastasis recti may resolve on its own for some individuals, particularly in milder cases, others may require intervention to strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve core stability. Treatment options for diastasis recti include:

1. Physical Therapy : Physical therapy, focused on exercises to strengthen the core muscles and improve abdominal wall function, is often recommended as a first-line treatment for diastasis recti. These exercises may include pelvic tilts, abdominal bracing, and transverse abdominal muscle activation.

2. Abdominal Binders or Splints: Wearing an abdominal binder or splint can provide external support to the weakened abdominal muscles, promoting proper alignment and reducing the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles.

3. Core Strengthening Exercises: Engaging in specific exercises targeted at strengthening the core muscles, such as Pilates or yoga, can help improve abdominal muscle tone and reduce the severity of diastasis recti.

4. Surgical Intervention: In severe cases of diastasis recti that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be necessary. During surgery, the abdominal muscles are repaired and tightened, restoring the integrity of the abdominal wall.

It's important for individuals experiencing symptoms of diastasis recti to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or a physician specializing in women's health, for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. With proper intervention and targeted exercises, many individuals can effectively manage diastasis recti and improve abdominal function and appearance postpartum.