MOTHERING, CAREGIVING.

Understanding Diastasis Recti. 

Diastasis recti refers to the naturally occurring widening and thinning of the connective tissues of the abdominal wall, that most commonly occurs during pregnancy, but may also happen at other times in life. These connective tissues help to join the muscles of the abdominal wall known as the rectus abdominis.

The abdominal wall is composed of muscles that are arranged in layers and are paired, and connective tissue known as fascia.

During pregnancy the abdominal wall naturally stretches to accomodate the growing baby, this can lead to diastasis recti.

Normally it will resolve itself over a varied time period after birth, depending on the individual. Factors that may influence restoration can include, genetics, collagen type, baby size & position, strength of the abdominals and fascia the before pregnancy, as well as hormonal elements.

After birth, in some instances this gap can persist sometimes for known or for unknown reasons. This may appear as a change in shape of the abdominal wall, with a softness or bulge and can contribute to symptoms such as difficulty controlling the flow of urine, back pain, organ prolapse, fatigue or challenges to a womens/ persons confidence and pyschological wellbeing.

The function of the abdominal wall is to support the organs and their position, offers postural stability and assists with breathing and pressure regulation within the abdominal/ pelvic and thoracic cavities.

Supporting diastasis recti requires a considered and holistic approach.

Some suggested resources are offered below.

01. Pelvic Health Physiotherapists.

Find a therapist in The UK POGP- https://thepogp.co.uk/patients/physiotherapists/

02. Hypopressive Pilates- A newer yet promising approach to supporting abdominal health.

03. A discussion between women’s health physiotherapists Grianne Donelly and Emma Brockwell on the research of diastasis recti.

04. Women’s Health Osteopath and/or similar.

02.June.2025.