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27 Important Facts That You Didn’t Know About Diastasis Recti

diastasis recti
Diastasis recti in many women is an important and common issue that every woman experiences during pregnancy.in this article, you will discover what diastasis recti causes. The separation process is gradual, it usually goes unnoticed, and sometimes you have to be intentional about treating your condition

Can Diastasis Recti Cause Acid Reflux?

No, diastasis recti cannot cause acid reflux. One can occur without the other. Hiatal hernia can cause or make GERD symptoms worse. Hiatal hernia allows the stomach go up to the chest. This puts pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter and weakens it, thereby causing acid reflux.

Can Diastasis Recti Cause Bowel Problems?

It can cause problems like bloating (or the feeling of being bloated) and constipation

Can Diastasis Recti Cause Hernia?

No, it cannot cause a hernia. They can occur interdependently of the other.

Can Diastasis Recti Cause Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Diastasis recti and irritable bowel syndrome have no connection to each other. Irritable bowel syndrome is a gastrointestinal disorder that is characterized by altered bowel habits, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.

Can Diastasis Recti Cause Bloating?

Yes, bloating is one of the effects that most women complain of feeling when they have a suspected diagnosis of diastasis recti

Can A Diastasis Recti Reopen?

Yes, it can. Any force that exerts pressure on the abdominal muscles can open up or cause abdominal separation in a condition that may already be healed.

How Is Diastasis Recti Surgery Performed?

A diastasis recti surgery is called an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck.  An abdominoplasty is cosmetic surgery of the abdomen that typically involves the removal of excess skin and fat and tightening of the abdominal muscles and flesh.

When Does Diastasis Recti Occur?

It usually occurs during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. It is also more common amongst small-stature women, who give birth to big babies. In men, it can occur when you have a beer belly or doing exercises incorrectly. Also, yoyo dieting can cause it in men

When Does Diastasis Recti Heal?

In women who are pregnant and after giving birth, diastasis recti is very common. 60% of people are affected. Usually, it goes away eight weeks after delivery. By six months after giving birth, about 40% of people who have diastasis recti still have it.

Diastasis Recti and Postpartum Depression

Diastasis recti and postpartum depression are two distinct conditions that can occur in women after childbirth. While diastasis recti and postpartum depression are separate conditions, they can potentially influence each other.  The physical changes and appearance associated with diastasis recti may affect a woman’s body image and self-esteem, potentially contributing to feelings of depression or anxiety. Conversely, postpartum depression can impact a woman’s motivation and energy levels, making it challenging to engage in exercises or seek treatment for diastasis recti. 

Where Does Diastasis Recti Occur?

It happens when the rectus abdominis muscles, sometimes known as the “six-pack ab muscles,” separate due to stretching during pregnancy. Months or years after giving birth, the separation may cause a person’s belly to protrude or enlarge.

Where To Check For Diastasis Recti?

It can occur
    • above the navel
    • below the navel
    • open diastasis or complete separation

Can Diastasis Recti Heal On Its Own?

This can resolve itself on its own. It normally takes 8 to 10 weeks to resolve on its own. However, you must have developed your abdominal muscles before pregnancy. If you had diastasis recti before your pregnancy, there is the possibility that it will still continue even 8 weeks after delivery.

Can I Do Light Jogging?

Yes, you can run/jog with diastasis recti. Slow-paced running is a great form of exercise for healing this condition. It is important to hire the services of a professional trainer or physical therapist when it comes to exercising with this condition though.

Can I feel My Intestines?

You can actually feel your intestines when you have this condition. Because the mid-line (directly above your belly button )separation between the muscles allows the intestines to be more palpable

Can I Have Another Baby If I Have Diastasis Recti?

Yes, you can have multiple babies if you have diastasis recti. If you have had it for some time, be prepared to go through serious lower back and pelvic pain.

Can It Occur In NewBorns?

It happens in newborn babies, especially those that are born prematurely. This is because the abdominal muscles are not yet fully grown, they normally resolve after 4 weeks.

Does Diastasis Recti Cause Umbilical Hernia?

No, diastasis recti cannot cause an umbilical hernia itself. However, the weakness of the connective tissue can cause a tear which can lead to developing a hernia.

Do Women Who Give Birth Via C-section Have Diastasis Recti?

According to some research, it is more common in women that have given birth via C-section. The process of c-section delivery and also post-op recovery can actually weaken the abdominal muscles, resulting in the condition.

Can I Have It Without Getting Pregnant?

Yes, you can have diastasis recti without getting pregnant. It can occur in young women who have never given birth.

Can Diastasis Recti Cause Constipation?

Side effects of diastasis recti include lower back pain, constipation, and urine leakage. Additionally, it may make breathing and moving difficult.

Does Alcohol Worsen Diastasis Recti?

Consuming alcohol can lead to the development of a beer belly, especially in men. This in turn can lead to the development of diastasis recti

Diastasis Recti Binders

Abdominal braces/bands or straps compress the back, upper and lower abdomen. The compression allows for the internal organs to stay in place, especially during work out.
SHAPE WEAR

Role Of Diet In Healing Diastasis Recti?

Collagen fibers maintain elasticity in the connective tissues. Nutrition needs to assist collagen production for the linea alba collagen fibers to regain elasticity, enabling ‘the gap’ to narrow and the midline to firm up.

Can You Get Diastasis Recti From Weight Lifting?

Yes, weight lifting is one of the main causes of diastasis recti in both men and women. . Even though weight training helps in attaining a good physique, and good posture, the fact that pressure is still being exerted especially at the abdominal level, makes it a risk factor.

What Can I Do To Prevent Diastasis Recti?

Prevention of diastasis recti starts with developing a strong core. Before pregnancy, you should concentrate on deep core muscles especially those on the pelvic floor

What Kind Of Underwear Is The Best For Diastasis Recti?

The type of underwear used for diastasis recti is usually called shapewear. They are high-waisted cotton underwear that helps in enveloping or hiding the pouch.

Does Vomiting Occur Frequently If You Have Diastasis Recti?

Vomiting can occur if you have this condition. Vomiting and nausea can be associated effects of this condition.

Foods To Eat If You Have Diastasis Recti?

Specifically increase your intake of Vitamins C and A, zinc, protein, and essential fatty acids. Vitamins C and A, and zinc, are important for collagen regeneration and helping these fibers to become firm.
  • Red Peppers
  • Tomatoes
  • Kiwis
  • Carrots
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Kale
  • Nut
  • Seeds and beans
  • Meat
  • Fish
  • Broccoli
  • Apricots
  • Oily fish,
  • Avocados
  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Grapeseed oil
  • Hemp oil

Conclusion

So there you go, the most frequently asked questions regarding diastasis recti in women, all answered. There is a lot of material to absorb, but ultimately it is worth it. The physical and emotional effects of diastasis recti can be extensive and life-altering, so doing what you can to prevent diastasis recti is paramount. If you feel like you may already have it, use these tips to help repair the condition as well.  You should also read our other article about diastasis recti and all you need to know. YOU MAY ALSO LIKE A Complete Guide On Diastasis Recti Made For Every Woman

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