Diastasis after childbirth: when your belly doesn't disappear with the baby

Diastasis during pregnancy: Symptoms and signs

The separation of the abdominal muscles after childbirth or during pregnancy may not always be visible at first glance. Are you wondering how to recognize diastasis during pregnancy or how to recognize diastasis after childbirth? Typical symptoms include:

• a visible or palpable "groove" or bulge in the abdominal area when the muscles are engaged,
• a protruding belly that persists even after childbirth,
• a weakened core and a feeling of instability,
• back pain, especially in the lumbar region,
• digestive problems (flatulence, constipation),
• in advanced cases, a hernia may develop.

Diastasis in men: hidden complications and risks

Diastasis can also occur in men, often in connection with being overweight, inappropriate weight training, or genetic predisposition. In men, it causes a number of complications, from a weakened core, which leads to back pain (especially in the lumbar spine), to poor posture.

A typical aesthetic manifestation is a bulging abdomen or a feeling of a "loose" abdomen, which can be visually disturbing and can also lower self-confidence.

Digestive problems, such as flatulence or slow digestion, often occur because the weakened abdominal wall does not provide sufficient support for the organs.

Another significant risk is the development of a hernia, which can form at the site of weakness. The condition can be exacerbated by improper exercise or overloading of the abdominal wall, typically during intense exercises targeting the rectus abdominis muscle (e.g., classic sit-ups).

Therefore, even for men, it is advisable to seek timely treatment in the form of adjusting their exercise regime, targeted strengthening of the deep abdominal muscles under the guidance of a specialist, and in some cases, consultation with a doctor.

What are the consequences of not treating diastasis?

If diastasis is not treated, it can gradually lead to more serious health complications:

• chronic back and spine pain,
• posture problems,
• weakening of the pelvic floor and incontinence,
• hernia formation, which may require surgery,
• permanent functional and aesthetic changes to the abdominal wall.

Therefore, it is important not to wait and to see a doctor as soon as you notice the symptoms. Our physiotherapist (Prague) will help you diagnose the problem in time, and their professional guidance will be the key to successful treatment.

Triggers and risk factors: diastasis after childbirth

Several factors can cause the development of diastasis:

• pregnancy (diastasis of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy is caused by the influence of hormones and the growing uterus),
• multiple pregnancies,
• birth of a large baby (postpartum diastasis),
• rapid succession of pregnancies,
• overweight or obesity,
• incorrect exercise after childbirth (strengthening the abdominal muscles) and excessive physical exertion,
• genetic predisposition (weakening of connective tissue),
• diastasis after a C-section, which can develop as a result of weakening of the abdominal wall after surgery.

Types of diastasis

Diastasis can vary in location and extent:

• diastasis in the upper abdomen (above the navel),
• diastasis in the navel area,
• diastasis in the lower abdomen,
• full-length diastasis – from the sternum to the pelvis.

How long does it take for diastasis to disappear and how can it be treated?

Treatment options depend on the extent of the problem:

• Rehabilitation and physical therapy – if you develop diastasis after childbirth, special exercises to strengthen the deep stabilizing system and properly engage the abdominal muscles can help resolve diastasis.
• Lifestyle changes – gentle exercise, proper breathing, avoiding inappropriate movement patterns.
• Conservative therapy – you can also treat abdominal muscles after childbirth with an abdominal belt or taping of diastasis after childbirth.
• Surgical solution – a general practitioner may decide on this option in the early stages of the problem. This is especially true in severe and long-term cases, particularly in the presence of a hernia.