Did You Know Babies Are Born with Diastasis?
If you're a new parent or caregiver, you may have heard the term "diastasis recti" in discussions about postpartum recovery. But did you know that babies are naturally born with diastasis recti? Here's everything you need to know about this fascinating and normal part of infant development.
What Is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti refers to the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, often called the "six-pack" muscles, which run along the front of the abdomen. In babies, this separation is entirely natural and functional. Unlike adults, whose diastasis recti may result from pregnancy, surgery, or other factors, newborns have this separation to accommodate their growing bodies and organs.
Why Are Babies Born with Diastasis?
During fetal development, the abdominal muscles don't fully fuse together. This separation allows for:
Room for Growth: As babies grow in the womb, their internal organs and structures need space to develop. The separation of the abdominal muscles facilitates this growth.
Flexibility for Birth: A less rigid abdominal wall makes it easier for babies to transition through the birth canal during delivery.
Respiratory Function: After birth, the separation helps accommodate the diaphragm's movements as babies learn to breathe outside the womb.
When Does Diastasis Recti Resolve in Babies?
In most cases, the diastasis begins to close naturally as a baby grows and their core muscles strengthen. Here’s a general timeline:
0-6 Months: The muscles start to come together as the baby becomes more active, rolling, and learning to hold their head up.
6-12 Months: Crawling, sitting up, and standing all contribute to core strengthening, which helps the abdominal muscles fuse further.
1-2 Years: By this age, most children's diastasis recti resolves completely. However, slight variations are normal and typically do not cause concern.
Signs to Monitor
While diastasis recti is natural in infants, there are rare instances where medical attention may be needed. Consult your pediatrician if:
The gap persists well beyond two years.
There are signs of discomfort or pain.
A bulge appears that doesn’t resolve with gentle pressure (this could indicate a hernia).
Supporting Your Baby’s Development
Parents can encourage healthy core muscle development with activities that promote movement and strength, such as:
Tummy Time: Spending time on their tummy helps babies strengthen their core, neck, and back muscles.
Encouraging Movement: Allow your baby plenty of opportunities to roll, crawl, and explore.
Avoid Overuse of Supportive Devices: Limit time in baby seats or carriers that restrict movement and natural strengthening.
Diastasis recti in babies is a normal and temporary part of their development. As their muscles strengthen and their bodies grow, the gap will naturally close in most cases. Understanding this natural process can help you support your little one's journey to a strong and healthy core. If you have concerns, don't hesitate to consult your pediatrician for guidance.
Have questions about diastasis recti in babies or adults? Feel free to reach out to our team at Bump and Beyond for expert advice and personalized care.
