Diastasis recti of the abdominal muscles is a separation of the abdominal muscles along the line of connective tissue that runs down the centre of the abdomen, known as the linea alba.
The condition commonly occurs during pregnancy as the linea alba must soften and expand to accommodate the growing fetus.
Precaution should be taken during and after pregnancy to avoid activities that worsen intra-abdominal pressure, which can make the separation worse or prevent it from improving.
These activities include:
- Any heavy lifting
- Sit-ups. Hence, when getting in and out of bed, make sure you roll on to your side first.
- Apply gentle pressure to your tummy to support it coughing, sneezing or laughing.
Also, take note to avoid any activities that overstretch your abdominals such as backbends.
Most cases would benefit from an exercise programme. Kegel exercises (pelvic floor exercises) help strengthen deep abdominal muscles and can be performed throughout pregnancy and in the postpartum period. Progressive core exercises can help to restore core strength after pregnancy.
Women with a gap larger than 2cm may benefit from an abdominal support immediately postpartum, but this is only a temporary measure until the deep abdominal muscles become stronger.
A women's health physiotherapist will be able to assist safe modification and progression of an exercise programme.
