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The rectus abdominis muscle is a layer under the skin that works strongly during coughing and lifting. The rectus abdominis is known as the "six-pack" and is linked in the middle by a fibrous band called the linea alba, which extends from the breastbone to the top of the pelvis.
What is diastasis recti?
Diastasis recti is a condition that occurs when the two rectus abdominis muscles are separated by an abnormally wide distance. The degree of separation may differ. The muscles become longer and weaker because of the expanding uterus pushing the muscles apart during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of diastasis recti?
Symptoms of diastasis recti include:
- A bulge that is visible in the midline of the abdomen.
- Weakness and difficulty engaging the abdominal muscles.
- Lower back pain.
- Pelvic floor dysfunction, such as incontinence.
What are the risk factors of diastasis recti?
As your baby grows, the muscles and the linea alba stretch and lengthen. The stretching of the linea alba may lead the muscles that support your abdomen to spread further.
These risk factors can contribute to the development of diastasis recti:
- Carrying twins or triplets
- Large baby
- Overweight
- Have weak abdominal muscles
- Regularly lift heavy objects
How do I know if I have diastasis recti?
Diastasis recti becomes more apparent in the later phases of pregnancy or after delivery. The greatest point of separation is at the umbilicus (belly button), which can be seen when lying on your back and lifting your head or leg.
You may notice a gap, a bulge, or a "dome" between your abdominal muscles. This distance can be measured with your fingertips or a tape measure.
With a severe linea alba stretch (up to 20 centimetres), the back is susceptible to injury; therefore, maintaining correct posture is crucial. A small stretch of 3cm or less typically improves on its own.
Can diastasis recti be treated?
The treatment for diastasis recti aims to help strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve their function.
Physiotherapy can improve abdominal muscle strength. These exercises often include gentle and progressive strengthening of the abdominal muscles, focusing on the transverse abdominis and pelvic floor muscles.
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and practising good posture to avoid excessive strain on the abdominal muscles can help prevent diastasis recti from worsening.
In severe cases of diastasis recti, surgery may be necessary to repair the weakened or separated abdominal muscles, restore abdominal muscle tone, and improve overall core strength.
Is diastasis recti preventable?
While it may not always be possible to completely prevent diastasis recti, some steps can be taken to minimise the risk and potentially reduce the severity of the condition.
- Exercise regularly to improve muscle tone.
- Practice good posture to maintain a neutral spine position and avoid excessive arching or slouching.
- Ensure healthy weight gain during pregnancy to avoid excessive weight that may strain the abdominal muscles.
- Use proper lifting techniques when lifting heavy objects to avoid putting excessive strain on the abdominal muscles.
- Gradual return to exercise after childbirth.
Book an appointment at Pantai Hospitals
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent diastasis recti from worsening while improving your abdominal muscle strength.
A dedicated and expert team of obstetricians and gynaecologists at Pantai Hospital is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance. Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have any concerns or questions about diastasis recti.
Pantai Hospital has been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
