5 Signs that your Diastasis Recti is worsening

80% of pregnant women develop a separation in their abdominal muscles and 50% do not recover after delivery. This is known as Diastasis Recti, or commonly known as the Mummy Tummy.  If you are more than 8 weeks postpartum and still suffering from this condition, it is unlikely to heal by itself. But what are some signs that it is worsening?

1. Are you more than 6 months postpartum?

If you are more than 8 weeks postpartum and still suffering from this condition, it is unlikely to heal by itself.

2. Lower Back Pain.

Separated abdominal muscles translate to more stress and less support for the spine and trunk. Spinal issues often begin in the form of lower back pain, and could lead to a degeneration of the spinal joints.

3. The next visible sign 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 our linea alba as a zipper holding the two sides of the abdominal muscles together. What happens when it becomes unzipped? It no longer supports the internal structure, leading to further complications.

4. Which brings us to the next big sign, Hernia

In severe cases, the internal organs are no longer supported well, leading to a Hernia. This happens usually in later stages of a Diastasis Recti that is left untreated. 

5. Incontinence often occurs with a Diastasis Recti

Diastasis Recti cases eventually meet with pelvic floor weakness and incontinence

The connection between our abdominal and pelvic muscles puts on a chain effect whenever one becomes weakened. As a result, many Diastasis Recti cases eventually meet with Incontinence.

If you’re wondering if your DR can be treated, book an assessment to find out.