What is diastasis and why should I care?
Diastasis is the separation of the rectus abdominis into right and left halves that happens during pregnancy. The defect is caused by excessive stretching of the rectus abdominis and is most common in women who have had successive pregnancies. Diastasis can be corrected without surgery (although surgery is available — it’s called a tummy tuck). That’s why ab work is important during your pregnancy (see above). Postnatal, good old fashioned hard work can get your abdominal wall tight again and you can still get your six-pack back! Generally isometric work, like pilates, will help. So does the use of a splint while doing abdominal work. Doing transverse contractions — the contracting of the transverse abdominis muscles is the best way.
