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LET’S CHEW THE FAT – POSTPARTUM
RECOVERY
Are you still carrying a bulge,or do you still look pregnant after giving birth? Has a stranger
asked you when you are due, even though you gave birth over 3 months ago? Don’t let this
get you down.
It’s time to stop the fairy tale of bodies ‘snapping back’ just after birth. It’s time to be real.It’s
time to let mamas know, that for most,postpartum baby bumps, mummy tummy and belly
bulges are completely normal.
They are not simply abdominal fat or the result from excess kilos you put on during pregnancy
from eating for two. It can be the result of abdominal separation, and it is precisely what your
body was supposed to do.
What causes abdominal separation?
As your belly grows and the abdominal are stretched to accommodate your growing little
bubba.
The ‘mummy tummy’ bulge (diastasis recti) occurs when the abdominal muscles stretch,
causing the connective tissue and ligaments to separate. These become overstretched, and
weak.As well as be visible bulge, you may feel tired and weak when bending, due to your
weakened core.
Some factors may make diastasis recti more likely
a genetic predisposition
larger babies or twin/multiples pregnancy
subsequent births
multiple C-section births
poor core strength
excessive weight gain during pregnancy
How long will it take to recover from diastasis recti?
Healing will take some time. Every pregnancy and recovery journey are different.
About 60% of women will have problems with abdominal separation following birth.
About 25% will see some reduction in the first 6-8weeks as the uterus goes back to size
and abdominal muscles regain strength
About 45% will recover within 6 months
About 30% will still have issues 12 months after birth.
Postpartum Recovery – are there treatments for diastasis recti?
There are no quick fixes or miracle products that can give you your pre baby body back. It’s an
unrealistic promise but there are some things that can help your recovery journey.
Compression abdominal support leggings
Compression postnatal recovery leggings and wraps can help provide support as your
abdominal muscles move back in place. Be careful of product where the compression is too
tight, or this can worsen your core. Find compression products that are supportive and
comfortable.
Core strength postnatal exercises
Don’t throw yourself into sit up and crunches to get rid of your bulge just yet! Avoid exercises
that causes the belly to bulge forward. Your abdomen is still healing, and these exercises can
make separation worse.
It is best to consult with your doctor or medical professional for advice when it is best to start
exercises following birth.Postpartum exercises for diastasis recti target deep core muscles,
and you should work with a physiotherapist or postpartum exercise specialist to ensure your
exercise program is safe.
Time to recover and adjust
Sometimes it’s just best to recognize that diastasis recti and postnatal recovery is just another
part of pregnancy. Some recognize the recovery period following birth as the 4th trimester.
Your body has performed a miracle of growing a baby and you need time to recover physically
and emotionally (yes, baby blues are normal too).
So be kind to yourselves mamas. Celebrate your postnatal bump and stretch marks for the
incredible work your body has done! For more information visit our website.