4 Signs that Your Diastasis Recti is Worsening

Welcome back to our series for Diastasis Recti Awareness Month. Following our recent article, “It’s Never Too Late to Manage Postpartum Diastasis Recti!“, we now turn our attention to an important aspect of this condition: recognising when it is getting worse.

Diastasis recti or more colloquially known as “Mummy Tummy”, affects a significant number of women postpartum. In fact, around 80 per cent of pregnant women develop a separation in their abdominal muscles, and approximately 50 per cent do not recover after delivery. This condition can be particularly challenging because, if you are more than eight weeks postpartum and still experiencing symptoms, it is unlikely to heal on its own.

Understanding the signs that your diastasis recti is worsening is crucial for early intervention and effective management. By identifying these signs early, you can take the necessary steps to prevent further complications and improve your overall well-being. So, what are the signs that indicate your condition might be getting worse? Let’s explore four signs you should watch out for:

As mentioned earlier, if you are more than eight weeks postpartum and still suffering from diastasis recti, it is unlikely to heal by itself. By six months postpartum, there should be noticeable improvement. If not, this lack of progress is a clear sign that your condition may be worsening. Persistent diastasis recti can lead to complications like pelvic floor dysfunction, which can cause issues such as urinary incontinence.

Separated abdominal muscles translate to more stress and less support for the spine and trunk. This lack of support can cause the spine to compensate, leading to lower back pain. It’s important to note that while there is a correlation between lower back pain and diastasis recti, correlation does not imply causation. Lower back pain alone does not confirm worsening diastasis recti, but it is a common associated symptom. If you experience persistent lower back pain along with other signs of diastasis recti, it may indicate that your condition is worsening.

Another sign of worsening diastasis recti is a tummy bulge. With a split of the abdominal muscles, it gives the appearance of a bulge or “pooch”. This is because the connective tissue, or linea alba, has stretched out and weakened. Imagine the linea alba as a zipper holding the two sides of the abdominal muscles together. When it becomes unzipped, it no longer supports the internal structure, leading to a protruding tummy. Addressing this noticeable bulge is important to prevent further complications.

In severe cases of untreated diastasis recti, the internal organs may no longer be well-supported, leading to a hernia. When the abdominal muscles and connective tissue are too weak to hold the organs in place, they can push through, resulting in significant discomfort and requiring immediate medical attention. Recognising your risk of hernia is crucial, as timely intervention can prevent further health issues and complications.

Knowing these signs is crucial for managing worsening diastasis recti. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek help promptly, as early intervention can prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.

Here at Orchard Clinic, we provide comprehensive care for diastasis recti. As Singapore’s premier wellness centre for women, our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way with personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs. So, don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen, reach out to us today for a consultation. Let us help you on your journey to recovery, ensuring you feel supported and cared for throughout the process.