Ask the Expert: Diastasis Recti (Abs separation)

Hi Chervy, with any surgery there are possible side effects and risks that one has to understand. There is also a recovery period and some downtime post-surgery.

Hi Chervy, very often it will either stay the same or worsen with age, pregnancy and poor body movements/exercises. In severe causes, hernia may happen, and Diastasis Recti could also lead to pelvic floor issues like urinary incontinence/urinary leakage.

Here are some exercises that we compiled that could help: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKlvyb9PJuc

A clear sign is a depression and a gap at the midline of your abdomen, such that you can fit 3-fingers lengthwise in the middle of your rectus abdominis. You can perform a self-check at home by following our simple video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-CRwIH51YI

The best thing you can do is to treat it as soon as you can and avoid any exercises or body movements that may worsen the condition. Surgery is an option but there are also fast and effective non-surgical options available with today's medical advancements. You can check out Orchard Clinic if you're keen to find out more.

Hi Jessica, there are some safe exercises you can do at home: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKlvyb9PJuc

There aren't any sure-win ways to prevent a Diastasis Recti, but strengthening the core & pelvic floor muscles before pregnancy is known to be good, and also avoiding any activity that could cause intra-abdominal pressure (e.g. constipation, straining, coughing)

Pregnancy is the leading cause (although some babies are born with the condition). Diastasis Recti is caused when there is a split in the abdominal muscles due to weakness of the connective tissue in between. In pregnancy, the growing foetus causes intra-abominal pressure that could stretch and weaken the connective tissue. You can watch our video about causes and treatments: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yeFYkQsWWM