Diastasis Recti Abdominis and Abdominal Muscles

Diastasis Recti Abdominis and Abdominal Muscles in Pregnant and Non-pregnant Women

Purpose of the study is the assessment of interrectal distance and dimensions of the muscles of the lateral abdominal wall in pregnant and non-pregnant women

• Purpose of the study is the assessment of interrectal distance and dimensions of the muscles of the lateral abdominal wall in pregnant and non-pregnant women
• Assessment via ultrasound measurement transabdominally
• 3 groups of participants: 1.) 20 pregnant women, who have never been pregnant before; 2.) 40 pregnant women with their first pregnancy, followed over the course of pregnancy; 3.) 20 women1-5 days after delivery (10 after spontaneous delivery, 10 after planned cesarean section)
• comparison between pregnant and non-pregnant women; evaluation of influence of pregnancy and mode of delivery

Inclusion Criteria:

• non-pregnant women aged 20-45 y with a BMI < 30 kg/m2 who never were pregnant
• pregnant women aged 20-45 y with a BMI < 30 kg/m2 before pregnancy

Exclusion Criteria:

• abdominal pre-operations
• chronical lung diseases
• constipation
• maternal collagenosis
• polyhydramnion (AFI > 25)
• uterus fibroids > 10 cm
• inability to perform Valsalva