What causes diastasis recti?
Diastasis recti is defined as a separation of the rectus abdominis muscles (the muscles in the center of the abdomen) into right and left sides. Normally they are joined the middle of the abdomen at the linea alba. During pregnancy, as the uterus continues to grow, the rectus muscles must stretch to accommodate the enlarged uterus. In some cases (a large baby, excess amniotic fluid, twins or other multiples, or just because), the muscles will separate to either side of the abdomen and leave a space between them. This can be felt on exam by your physician or midwife. Sometimes patients will notice a soft bulge in the middle of their abdomen when they try to sit up. Can diastasis cause back problems? Yes. When the abdominal muscles don’t work in concert with each other then the muscles in your back have to compensate. For example, when you go to lift something like your beautiful child and their car seat and the diaper bag and the toy bag for the other child and your purse which has ever
