How to Prevent Diastasis Recti

Diastasis recti is a condition that can occur in newborns as well as pregnant women. This condition is an abnormal separation between the left and right rectus abdominal muscle. There is usually no treatment recommended for diastasis recti, and the condition will usually correct itself on its own. However, it does increase the risk for hernias. Although diastasis recti cannot be prevented in newborns, pregnant women can make some adjustments to minimize the chances of getting diastasis recti.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Avoid putting any tension on the abdominal walls. Do not wear tight-fitting clothing or belts when you are pregnant.

2. Steer clear of sports that require your upper body to twist. This includes tennis, table tennis and bowling.

3. Keep your abdominal muscles from bulging out during exercise. Don't extend your back or twist in a manner that causes your abdomen to stick out. Do not lie backwards over a balance ball.

4. Stop any aggressive ab workouts if you are pregnant and past 12 weeks. This includes sit-ups, crunches, curls and certain yoga poses, such as the cow pose.

5. Don't lift heavy objects during pregnancy. This can cause diastasis recti, as well as worsen the condition if you have been diagnosed with it.

6. Use cough suppressants to control coughing if you are ill. Check with your doctor to see if you can take cough suppressant medications or lozenges. Intense coughing during pregnancy can lead to diastasis recti.

Tips & Warnings

• You will also be at a higher risk of developing diastasis recti if you have been pregnant before or are expecting multiples.

References

• Medline Plus
• Be Fit Mom

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