Becoming a new mother or biological parent is a joyful yet challenging time. One challenge that many face during pregnancy and after childbirth is rectus muscle separation. This is a common condition that occurs during pregnancy when the rectus abdominis (six-pack muscle) separates on both sides. This separation can lead to other symptoms such as a tummy tuck or lower back pain, making it difficult for you to exercise or return to pre-pregnancy function. Fortunately, this condition can be successfully treated with physical therapy.

What causes rectal separation?

During pregnancy, the uterus puts pressure on the abdominal muscles. As the uterus expands during pregnancy, this pressure can cause the connective tissue of the rectus abdominis muscle (linea alba) to separate. In addition, the hormone relaxin, which helps relax the ligaments in the pelvic area in preparation for childbirth, also affects the abdominal muscles, making them easier to separate. Rectal separation occurs in most pregnancies and usually resolves itself postpartum.

What are the symptoms of rectal separation?

The most obvious symptom of a rectus abdominis separation is a belly bulge that can persist even after the baby is born. Other symptoms may include low back pain, pelvic pain, constipation, and difficulty engaging the core muscles. You may notice pain with walking, lifting objects around the house (or lifting a newborn), and regular activities of daily life.

How is it diagnosed?

A rectal separation can be diagnosed with a physical exam by a healthcare provider, such as a physical therapist. Your healthcare provider will check for abdominal muscle separation by performing a series of tests. They may also do an ultrasound or MRI to confirm the diagnosis. At Athletico, a physical therapist will take a thorough subjective history and perform an objective examination to determine a possible diagnosis.

What treatment options are available?

The good news is that research shows that rectus separation can be treated with exercise and physical therapy. A physical therapist can help you create an exercise program to strengthen your core muscles and improve your function. They may also recommend specific exercises to modify as your body continues to heal.

What can I do to prevent rectal separation?

• Avoid holding your breath when doing anything heavy that can strain your abdominal muscles.
• Exercise safely during pregnancy and after childbirth.
• Avoid activities that cause excessive abdominal distension above or below the umbilical cord (belly button).
• Work with a physical therapist to develop an exercise program that targets your deep core muscles, including the abdominals, pelvic floor, and back stabilizers.

Diastasis recti is a common condition that affects many new mothers and birth parents. Fortunately, with proper treatment and prevention, you can manage this condition and get back to looking your best. At Athletico, we have highly trained therapists who specialize in pelvic health and can support you throughout pregnancy and postpartum rectal dilation recovery. Don’t let pain distract you from the joys of life after childbirth. The road to recovery and pain-free parenting starts at Athletico.

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The Athletico Blog is an educational resource written by Athletico staff. Athletico bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the codes of ethics established by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the author alone, based on his expertise and experience. The content presented in this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied upon in making personal health decisions.