Nasma Shittu, a mother of one, confided, “My body felt different; I gained weight; I wasn’t as active or strong as before I gave birth.” Her sentiments echoed the common experiences shared by many new mothers.
Before her bundle of joy arrived, Nasma cherished simple exercises like walking and the rhythmic swing of a skipping rope.
However, the postpartum reality prompted her to adopt the tradition of tying a wrapper around her belly for a few minutes daily for three months, staying clear of strenuous activities.
Pressed for time due to childcare demands, she admitted, “I don’t have time. I need to attend to my baby.” Yet, she found solace in watching her diet and prioritizing fruits and vegetables as part of her commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
Support played a crucial role in her journey. “They assured me that I would snap back to my normal body,” she shared, highlighting the significance of a supportive network. Her husband emerges as a pillar of strength, unfazed by the changes in her body.
Offering advice to fellow mothers, she wisely shared, “Avoid stressing your abdominal muscles, like carrying heavy loads, and give your body time to heal on its own.” Her acknowledgement of the healing process underscored the importance of patience and self-care in the postpartum journey.
Reflecting on her experience, she recommended to new mothers, “Be patient; your body will heal on its own. If you have the time, start exercising early, though you might not get that shape back immediately. It depends on the individual body.” Her words echoed the importance of self-love and understanding the unique postpartum journey.
WHAT IS DIASTASIS RECTI?
According to the Baby Centre (https://www.babycenter.com/baby/postpartum-health/diastasis-recti_10419293, a common phenomenon known as diastasis recti unfolds after childbirth.
This condition involves the thinning and widening of the linea alba, the connective tissue binding the rectus abdominis muscles, which give rise to the coveted “six-pack” appearance.
As the belly expands during pregnancy, hormonal changes contribute to the stretching of this connective tissue, creating space for the growing baby.
Genetic factors, the number of pregnancies, and various other elements, such as carrying multiples or undergoing abdominal surgeries, can influence the likelihood and severity of diastasis recti.
NAVIGATING THE AFTERMATH OF CHILDBIRTH
Dr. Aisha, a passionate advocate for women’s health, shared profound insights into the process of postpartum recovery and wellness.
She unravelled the nuanced layers of this transformative period, emphasizing the interconnected aspects that guide a woman’s journey after childbirth.
“Postpartum recovery is about the physical healing after giving birth.”. She addressed perineal tears, caesarean section incisions, postpartum bleeding, breastfeeding challenges, pelvic floor strength, and the myriad of changes unfolding in the weeks and months following childbirth.
Transitioning seamlessly into the broader canvas of postpartum wellness, she articulated, “It’s not just physical healing; it’s about emotional, mental, and social well-being.” Dr. Aisha outlined key elements—emotional well-being, self-care, nutritional support, sleep management, social connections, and parenting education—forming a holistic approach to support a mother’s overall health.
This explored the common physical symptoms postpartum women encounter, emphasizing the diversity of experiences. Dr. Aisha’s expertise shone through as she explained mental health challenges—baby blues, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and adjustment difficulties—bringing to light the emotional complexities many women navigate.
The timeline for postpartum healing is unique to each woman’s journey. “Immediate postpartum period, first week, two to six weeks, six weeks to three months,” she says.
Amidst the wealth of information, Dr. Aisha highlighted the crucial role of breastfeeding in postpartum recovery. “Physical recovery, weight loss, bonding, hormonal balance, reduced health risks, and contraception,” she enumerated, underscoring the multifaceted benefits that extend to both mother and baby.
“Building resilience, nurturing the mother-child bond, role modelling,” she described, attributing self-care and self-compassion as essential tools for navigating the challenges of motherhood.
She also emphasized the need for mothers aspiring to regain fitness: “If you need to get back in shape, create time for exercise.”
ADDRESSING DIASTASIS RECTI FOR POSTPARTUM WELLNESS
Nkeoma DND Agu is a postpartum wellness coach and the founder of Bellisima Fitness. She says diastasis recti is a common condition affecting 99% of women who carry their babies to the 3rd trimester. “This separation of abdominal muscles during pregnancy can lead to various potential risks and complications.” She added.
The consequences of diastasis recti extend beyond cosmetic concerns, affecting postpartum women’s physical and emotional well-being. From persistent bloating and back pain to urinary incontinence and low self-esteem, the impact can be profound.
The risks escalate, with unrepaired diastasis recti potentially causing hernias or prolapse.
Nkeoma stressed the need for personalized care, highlighting that a one-size-fits-all solution won’t suffice.
Her studio’s approach involves not only repairing diastasis but also rehabilitating the pelvic floor. “Involuntary urine leaks, pelvic pain, or painful intimacy indicate distressed pelvic floor muscles that require attention.” She says.
She encourages new moms to start small, remove barriers to exercise, and build sustainable healthy habits.
The message is clear: self-care is not only crucial for individual well-being but also makes one a better person capable of giving more to others.
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