Tuesday, March 25th, 2025

What to do if the baby bump does not disappear even after delivery? People ask- ‘Are you still pregnant?’


After pregnancy, many changes take place in the body of women and now their body changes completely. After delivery, the most common complaint of women is the increased weight and the most frightening part of this is the bulging belly. Yes, the belly does not reduce immediately after delivery.

In cesarean delivery, it is often seen that even after delivery, the size of the stomach does not reduce and looking at your stomach it still appears that you are pregnant. In medical language, this condition is called diastasis. According to an article published in hss.edu, “During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles and surrounding tissues have to expand to accommodate the growing fetus.” This is what Dr. Ellen Casey of HSS (Hospital for Special Surgery) says.

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what is diastasis

Moreland OB-GYN Diastasis recti, also known as abdominal muscle separation, is a common condition women experience during and after pregnancy, according to an article published in . In this condition, the right and left sides of the rectus abdominis muscles spread apart at the midline of the body.

This condition reduces the strength and function of the abdominal wall. Apart from this, diastasis recti can also cause instability of the pelvic girdle, due to which women may suffer from pelvic and back pain.

Exercise will help

Exercise will help

hss.edu According to , exercises like bicycles and planks can help a lot in curing it. If your abdominal muscles are coming out, it means that they are not yet strong enough to do this exercise.

All photos courtesy: pexels

When should you see a doctor

When should you see a doctor

In extreme cases of diastasis recti, abdominal tissue may tear, causing internal organs to protrude, also known as a hernia. In severe cases, the protruding organ may tighten, cutting off blood supply, which can lead to infection and tissue death. If you think you may have a hernia, you should get a physical examination from a doctor.

Ways to prevent diastasis

Ways to prevent diastasis

Cleveland Clinic According to, if there is healthy weight gain during pregnancy, then there is less complaint of it. Weight gain can be prevented through exercise and healthy diet. Apart from this, correct posture and deep breathing also help. For this, stand straight and keep the shoulders back. Take deep breaths so that your ribs can expand, not just your stomach.

Core Exercises

Core Exercises

Avoid exercises that put pressure on your abdominal muscles, such as sit-ups and crunches, during pregnancy week 12 and beyond. Everyday activities, such as lifting grocery bags or carrying your children, can put unnecessary pressure on your abdominal muscles.

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