DIASTASIS RECTI - You’ve probably heard the term before, or was told to watch for bulging or ‘doming’ of your mid line. A Diastasis basically means the widening of your linea alba, the connective tissue between your 6 pack muscles.
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Sounds a little freaky? In reality, a Diastasis is NORMAL and completely expected in pregnancy and the early postpartum period. If you aren’t sure what a Diastasis looks like during pregnancy, here is a helpful clip to watch.
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Studies show that 100% of women have a Diastasis by 35 weeks gestation (Mota et al 2014). It’s a NATURAL occurrence that takes place to create space for your growing uterus. Interestingly enough, 39.3% of postpartum women will still have some form of separation at 6.5 months. The inter-recti distance (width of linea alba) at 8 weeks postpartum is the same at 1 year PP with no intervention (Coldron et al 2008).
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What does this mean?
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Learning how managing intra abdominal pressure postpartum, along with healthy pelvic floor, core and diaphragm function play a role in helping minimize the ‘gap’. So if you see doming or “bulging” in the mid-line, don’t panic. Reach out, ask questions, and learn the right strategies to get you strong and dome-free.