How to fix Diastasis Recti after pregnancy years later?
Congratulations on the arrival of your little one!
As a new mother, you’re likely adjusting to the many changes in your life and body. Well, women often miss their pre-baby body and find it difficult to achieve the same, especially a flat and toned midsection. This may happen due to Diastasis Recti after pregnancy. This condition, also known as ‘mommy tummy’ is quite prevalent immediately after childbirth.
Diastasis Recti affects more than half of postpartum individuals. While it often resolves itself through targeted exercises, some people may consider surgery in certain cases. However, addressing diastasis recti is important because it can give birth to other issues, such as back pain, poor posture, and a weakened core.
Understanding Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti, or Abdominal Separation – this condition arises when the abdominal muscles (known as the “six-pack” muscles or Rectus Abdominis) separate along the midline of the abdomen. This condition is commonly experienced by women during and after pregnancy, where the right and left halves of the rectus abdominis muscle spread across the body’s midline. This separation typically happens as the abdominal muscles stretch to accommodate a growing uterus during pregnancy.
Research suggests that up to 60% of pregnant women may develop diastasis recti to some extent.
Apart from compromising the integrity and functional strength of the abdominal wall, diastasis recti can lead to pelvic girdle instability. This instability may result in symptoms such as pelvic and back pain, irritation of the sacroiliac (SI) joint, and limited mobility. Addressing diastasis recti after pregnancy through appropriate exercises and treatments is crucial for restoring abdominal function and reducing associated symptoms.
Causes of Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti affects around 30% of pregnancies and can develop during the latter half of pregnancy. However, it is most commonly observed after pregnancy when the abdominal wall becomes lax, and the thinner midline tissue no longer adequately supports the torso and internal organs.
Those at higher risk of diastasis recti include:
- Women carrying more than one baby
- Petite women
- Women with a visible sway back or poor abdominal muscle tone
- Women who are classified as obese
Genetics also play an imperative role in determining whether abdominal muscles will separate. For many women, diastasis recti is simply their body’s response to pregnancy.
Diastasis Recti After Pregnancy Symptoms
Wondering how to determine if you have diastasis recti? One common indication is a protruding or “poochy” belly. You may observe that your belly appears more prominent when sitting up and flattens when lying down. Additionally, you might feel a separation or bulge when pressing on your abdomen.
To check for diastasis Recti after pregnancy symptoms, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your fingers about two finger-widths above your belly button. Gradually lift your head and shoulders off the floor, engaging your abdominal muscles to press against your fingers. If you feel a gap wider than two fingers or notice a bulge along the central line of your abdomen, it’s possible you have diastasis recti.
How to fix diastasis recti years later?
When it comes to diastasis recti, our abdominal ailment specialist Dr. Daniel Serralta may suggest the following line of treatment:
Conventional Treatment Options
- Core Exercises: this is usually the first line treatment, always directed by an specialized physiotherapist. These exercises are mostly effective during the first 6 months after delivery, although they will be beneficial always.
- Abdominal Support: Utilize additional abdominal support to reduce muscle separation. Pregnancy belts or bands can provide this support, and they can be worn during the third trimester and postpartum period for up to six weeks to bolster abdominal muscle integrity.
Surgical Intervention
In severe cases, surgery may be needed to treat the muscle separation.
Following are some of the types of surgeries our surgeon may opt for:
- Traditional Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck Surgery): This procedure focuses on repositioning separated abdominal muscles and eliminating surplus skin. It is advisable when there is noticeable excess skin. However, it involves very long scars and usually a belly button relocation, with questionable aesthetic results…
- Mini Tummy Tuck: Similar to the classic abdominoplasty but specifically targets the area below the belly button.
- Keyhole Abdominoplasty (Endoscopic Tummy Tuck): This minimally invasive approach involves three approximately 1 cm incisions for a quicker recovery. It utilizes a laparoscope and specialized instruments to minimize scarring and postoperative discomfort. It has several advantages: less pain, incredible aesthetic results, almost no scars and faster recovery for daily life activities!!!
Struggling with diastasis recti after pregnancy for a long time? Do not delay further!
Get in touch with abdominal laparoscopic surgeon Dr. Daniel Serralta
If you’ve been dealing with diastasis recti following pregnancy for an extended period, don’t wait any longer to seek help. Reach out to Dr. Daniel Serralta, an experienced abdominal laparoscopic surgeon, to explore your options for addressing this condition. With Dr. Serralta’s expertise and personalized approach, you can take proactive steps towards restoring abdominal strength and function.
Don’t let diastasis recti continue to impact your quality of life—schedule a consultation with Dr. Serralta today to commence your journey towards recovery and improved well-being.
