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All You Need to Know About Diastasis Recti

Updated: Jul 19

 

Have you noticed a bulge in your belly that just won’t go away, even after months of working out, especially after pregnancy?


You might be dealing with diastasis recti. This condition is often overlooked but can impact your core strength, posture, and overall well-being.  


Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments of diastasis recti can help you take better care of your core health.


Let’s break down everything you need to know about diastasis recti.

 

1.   What is Diastasis Recti? 


Diastasis recti

 

What is Diastasis recti

Diastasis recti, also called abdominal separation, is a condition where the rectus abdominis muscles separate along the linea alba. The linea alba is the connective tissue band vertically down the midline of the abdomen. This separation can create a visible bulge or ridge, especially when the core muscles are activated.


This condition is common in pregnant and postpartum women due to the growing uterus and hormonal changes that soften connective tissues.

 

2. What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti often develops during the third trimester of pregnancy, but many people don’t notice it until weeks after childbirth.


Some of the most common symptoms of Diastasis Recti include:

Symptoms of Diastasis recti

  • A visible bulge or “pooch” above or below the belly button, even after you’ve lost pregnancy weight

  • A soft or jelly-like sensation around the belly button area

  • Coning or doming of the abdomen when you engage your core muscles or lean back

  • Trouble with lifting, walking, or doing daily activities

  • Lower back pain that worsens with movement or poor support

  • Poor posture or a feeling of core instability

  • Digestive issues

 

3. Risk Factors for Diastasis recti include:

Pregnancy & Postpartum: The growing uterus stretches the abdominal muscles, especially during the third trimester.

Multiple Pregnancies / Large Babies: Repeated or high-volume stretching increases the chance of the abdominal muscles separating.

Older Maternal Age: Reduced muscle elasticity with age may affect the body’s ability to recover after pregnancy.

Vaginal Delivery: The intense pressure during labor can contribute to muscle strain and separation.

Obesity: Excess abdominal fat increases pressure on the abdominal wall, leading to weakening over time.

Repeated Heavy Lifting: Lifting heavy objects without core support can strain the abdominal muscles.

Excessive Intra-abdominal Pressure: Conditions like chronic coughing, constipation, or straining raise internal pressure.  


Complications if left untreated:

  • Chronic lower back pain

  • Pelvic floor disorders 

  • Hernia

  • Poor core stability and mobility

  

4. When Should I See a Doctor or Specialist?

You should talk to a doctor if:

  • The gap in your abs feels large or soft and isn’t improving.

  • You feel pain, pressure, or weakness in your abdomen or back.

  • You suspect a hernia (sharp pain, visible bulge that doesn’t go down).

  • Your postpartum belly stays swollen months after delivery.

They may suggest Diastasis Recti surgery if the separation is severe.

 

5. How Is Diastasis Recti Diagnosed?

  • A healthcare provider will check for any separation in your abdominal muscles.

  • They will examine where the gap is located, which could be:

    • Above your belly button

    • At your belly button

    • Below your belly button

  • The provider will use their hands and fingers to feel for:

    • The size of the gap

    • The firmness or weakness of the muscles

  • To get a more accurate measurement, they may also use:

    • Measuring tape

    • Ultrasound scan

    • A tool called a caliper

  • A gap wider than 2 cm or about two or more finger widths is considered diastasis recti.

 

6. Treatment Option for Diastasis Recti:


1. Diastasis Recti Surgery

Diastasis recti surgery, known as abdominoplasty or tummy tuck, is performed to repair the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles. The procedure involves tightening the separated muscles and also includes removing excess skin and fat to restore abdominal wall strength and improve the abdominal appearance.


2. Laparoscopic Surgery:

A minimally invasive surgery where small incisions are made to bring the abdominal muscles back together. It involves quicker recovery than traditional surgery.


3. Robotic-Assisted Surgery:

An advanced form of laparoscopic surgery where a robot helps the surgeon perform precise muscle repair. It’s less invasive and often results in faster healing with less pain.

 

7. Care at ARDEN JR SURGERY

Diastasis recti is more common than many people realize, especially after pregnancy. The good news is, with the right doctor support and guidance, you can improve your core strength and reduce the gap.


If you suspect you have abdominal separation and are looking for Diastasis recti treatment in Singapore, talk to a medical professional at ARDEN JR SURGERY.


Whether you need diagnosis, treatment, or surgical repair for diastasis recti, we provide:

  • Personalized consultations

  • Non-surgical guidance with expert referrals

  • Advanced surgical techniques for severe cases

  • Post-surgery recovery care and support


Book your consultation with ARDEN JR SURGERY today and get expert guidance on diastasis recti surgery and treatment options effectively.   

 
 
 
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