Diastasis recti and coning: what ACOG says
Quick answer: ACOG's guidance reports that abdominal strengthening exercises have been shown to decrease its incidence and the distance between the muscles.
What ACOG says
Committee Opinion 804: "Abdominal strengthening exercises, including abdominal crunch exercises and the drawing-in exercise, a maneuver that increases abdominal pressure by pulling in the abdominal wall muscles, have been shown to decrease the incidence of diastasis recti abdominus and decrease the inter-rectus distance in women who gave birth vaginally or by cesarean birth."
Source: ACOG Committee Opinion 804
ACOG's exercise after pregnancy FAQ lists among the benefits: "It helps strengthen and tone abdominal muscles."
Source: ACOG: Exercise After Pregnancy
What APTA says
The American Physical Therapy Association's Academy of Pelvic Health (not ACOG) explains: "Diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) is a separation of the left and right sides of the outermost abdominal muscle. It is caused by excessive forces that stretch the connective tissue called the linea alba." It adds: "DRA often resolves on its own during the first three months after the birth (postpartum)" and "If you do develop DRA, the earlier you see a physical therapist, the faster you will be able to return to the activities you love."
Source: APTA Pelvic Health: Diastasis Rectus Abdominis
Questions about your own pregnancy, birth or recovery belong with your doctor or primary healthcare provider.
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MOMDAY is not a healthcare provider. This article shares general information from public health sources such as ACOG and is educational only, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk with your doctor or primary healthcare provider about what is right for you, and never delay seeking care because of something you read here. If you think you have an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.