In pregnancy, the rectus abdominis stretches to its capacity. The muscle will open along the linea alba, stretching itself past the point of function. This separation is known as DRA - Diastasis Recti - and is completely normal; the rectus abdominis is designed to separate to allow for the growth of the fetus. In fact, about 98% of pregnancies carried to term will have some sort of separation. 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 1 year postpartum. While every journey to motherhood is different, here are some overall myths and facts about DRA.

MYTH #1: DRA IS THE SAME FOR EVERYONE

Every body and every pregnancy is different. There are 4 different kinds of DRA and a licensed clinician can evaluate the length and width of your separation to determine your best next steps.

MYTH #2: DRA ONLY HAPPENS TO OTHER WOMEN

Diastasis Recti is present in almost all pregnancies that reach 36 weeks. During the fourth trimester, consider your core area to be in recovery, whether you show signs of DRA or not.

MYTH #3: MY DOCTOR WILL TELL ME IF I HAVE DRA

Your physician may never check you for Diastasis Recti since moms typically only have 1 postnatal check-up. Be your own advocate and proactively ask your doctor.

MYTH #4: ONE EXERCISE WILL FIX IT

Sure, we all wish there was a magic bullet to heal our bodies, but the truth is our core is in charge of a lot of different movements and functions. For healing, you need to slowly integrate multiple styles of movement to strengthen your core stability.

MYTH #5: IT WILL GO AWAY IF I LOSE WEIGHT

Reducing internal abdominal swelling can help but DRA is resolved by recovering the muscle and tissue stability, not weight loss.

MYTH #6: SURGERY IS THE ONLY SOLUTION

You can recover without surgery, though surgery is one option. Surgery is a personal decision that requires understanding the risk and benefits, but trust that it is not your only option.

MYTH #7: SUCKING IN MY STOMACH WILL HELP IT FLATTEN AND HEAL

Actually, sucking your belly button to your spine can cause more damage than good. Learn proper core contraction by working with a fitness professional.

MYTH #8: I CAN RESTART MY PRE-PREGNANCY WORKOUT

Go slow, mama. It is not safe to jump back into your pre-pregnancy workout. Instead, you should add on slowly, moving with the intention of rebuilding core stability, total body strength, and joint mobility.

Did you know all of the instructors at FIT4MOM Roswell Alpharetta Perimeter are certified in prenatal and postnatal fitness? This means they have ann understanding of the physical and mental changes that occur during pregnancy and postpartum and have the knowledge and tools required to guide moms on their unique fitness journeys.

Let us help you find your fit. First class is free!