ABDOMINAL SEPARATION
During pregnancy many women experience a separation of their stomach muscles from the pressure the pregnancy can put on the belly. The muscles find it hard to keep their shape at this time and this is known as Diastasis Recti and can appear as a gap of roughly 2.7cm or more between the two sides. It is quite common among pregnant women, about two thirds of pregnant women can get it.
If you are on your second or more pregnancy, or are over 35yrs, then it is more likely to occur. This condition can cause of few issues such as lower back pain, constipation, and urine leaking. It can make it hard to breathe and even move as normal. The muscles often shrink back after giving birth, but in some cases of women with this Diastasis Recti, the muscles do not bounce back to normal until even a year later.
Things to note if you have Abdominal Separation:
• Avoid lifting heavy things, including your kids, as this can cause a strain on your connective tissue.
• Be careful with certain exercises. Avoid crunches, plank, push ups, sit ups, and any other exercises on your hands and knees (downward dog, swimming).
• Allow it to heal naturally, or you can assist by wearing a support band around your belly.
• Once healed, exercise with caution. Try pilates with a reputable instructor and let them know you have had Abdominal Separation.
• Ensure you get the ok from your doctor before you undertake any rigorous exercise following Abdominal Separation.
• Your doctor can check how far apart they are, or you can simple do so by lying on your back, and gently placing your fingers along your belly button in towards your abdominals. If you can fit 2 or more fingers in, they are separated.
• In extreme cases, surgery may be an option, but you should consult your Doctor for this.