During pregnancy, the growing uterus can cause the abdominal muscles and skin to stretch and expand, leading to the development of a protruding belly. However, some women may also develop a condition known as diastasis recti, which is commonly referred to as a “pregnant belly stone.” In this blog post, we will explore the causes of diastasis recti and how it can be treated.
Diastasis recti occurs when the left and right sides of the rectus abdominis muscles, which run vertically down the middle of the abdomen, separate. This separation can occur due to the continuous stretching and pressure on the abdominal muscles during pregnancy. Women who have had multiple pregnancies or who are carrying twins or triplets are more likely to develop diastasis recti.
Other factors that may increase the risk of developing diastasis recti include:
Being over the age of 35
Having weak abdominal muscles prior to pregnancy
Gaining a significant amount of weight during pregnancy
Having a large baby
Engaging in certain activities that place stress on the abdominal muscles, such as heavy lifting or doing abdominal exercises that involve crunches or sit-ups.
Symptoms of diastasis recti include a visible bulge or “stone” in the belly, especially when sitting up or doing activities that require abdominal muscles. Some women may also experience lower back pain, pelvic pain, or urine leakage due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
Treatment for diastasis recti typically involves exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles and promote healing of the separated muscles. A physical therapist or healthcare provider may recommend specific exercises, such as pelvic tilts, gentle abdominal crunches, and kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Women may also be advised to wear a support garment, such as a postpartum belly wrap or abdominal binder, to help support the abdominal muscles during the healing process.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair severe cases of diastasis recti. However, this option is typically reserved for cases where other treatments have been ineffective.
In conclusion, diastasis recti, commonly known as a “pregnant belly stone,” is a condition that occurs when the abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant can reduce their risk of developing diastasis recti by maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise to strengthen the abdominal muscles, and avoiding activities that place unnecessary stress on the abdominal muscles. If you are experiencing symptoms of diastasis recti, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or physical therapist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
