March 22, 2021

"Diastasis" literally means separation, with "recti" referring to the rectus abdominis (which is why it is called DR or DRA). The widening and thinning of the midline tissue occur in response to the force of the uterus pushing against the abdominal wall, in conjunction with the pregnancy hormone relaxin that softens connective tissue.

In our most recent studies, we are finding that almost all pregnancies have a level of separation at the rectus abdominis by week 36. We find that 60% of women have a level of Diastasis Recti at 6 weeks postpartum, and that 30% have a level of Diastasis Recti at one year postpartum.

These stats, however, leave out the fact that the wide majority of women are never checked for Diastasis Recti. But in other words, DR is a normal part of pregnancy. We cannot prevent it, but we can prepare the body for pregnancy, labor, and postpartum healing by incorporating safe movements and exercises no matter your stage of motherhood.

Were you ever checked for DRA? Your FIT4MOM instructor can provide a simple check in class, but your OB or a Pelvic Floor PT are the only ones who can provide an official diagnosis.

Knowing whether you have DRA or not is a big deal - especially as you embark on a postpartum fitness journey - as certain ab exercises can exacerbate DRA and cause more harm than good. The good news is that all of our instructors know how to modify your core work not only to avoid those harmful ab exercises, but to help you strengthen your core from the inside and help you begin to close that gap and get more comfortable in your postpartum body.

We got you, Mama!