Diastasis Recti
The dreaded ab separation 😬. But, don’t fret! Every pregnant women will have some degree of abdominal separation. Correct exercise performance post pregnancy has become more mainstream in just the last few years. There is so much more information out there for you Mommas; however, I know that this can also be overwhelming.
So first, what really happens if you are having a diastasis?
Diastasis is the separation of the rectus abdominus or the outermost abdominal muscles. The force that can cause this separation includes a growing uterus during pregnancy, weight gain in the abdominal area (duh, again, pregnancy) and using abdominal muscles incorrectly during heavy lifting and intense abdominal exercises. Not having your abdominal muscles acting as your body’s natural corset can cause imbalance and pain.
SOME ASSOCIATED SYMPTOMS CAN INCLUDE:
Low back pain
Pelvic floor dysfunction
Leaking of urine
Umbilical hernia
Bulging or “pouch” with abdominal activation
Luckily, there is a way to retrain this mind/body connection to your core post pregnancy. It starts gently. Your body has been through an amazing transformation. Give yourself time to heal. Then, when you are ready, it is time to reconnect with your pelvic floor and core muscles.