Pregnancy-Related Diastasis Rectus Abdominis: Bridging the Gap

Overview

This course explores pregnancy‑related diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) through a critical, evidence‑informed lens, helping clinicians develop a cohesive clinical approach grounded in current research and practice‑based inquiry. Pregnancy‑related DRA refers to the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles due to stretching and thinning of the linea alba, and it is a common condition encountered during the prenatal and postnatal period. Physiotherapists are uniquely positioned to support clients through conservative management strategies that consider the whole abdominal manometric system — including relationships between the linea alba, pelvic floor muscles, and other core structures. 

The course acknowledges that the scientific literature on pregnancy‑related DRA is evolving and at times discordant, and it encourages clinicians to appraise evidence carefully while integrating practice‑based knowledge to deliver high‑quality care at the first point of contact in the health system. 

Why This Course Matters

Diastasis rectus abdominis is a frequent concern during and after pregnancy, but the evidence base for its conservative management remains incomplete and sometimes contradictory. Physiotherapists who understand both the emerging research and practical, integrative care strategies can provide more confident, evidence‑informed support to clients in the perinatal period. This includes discussing implications for core‑related function and developing clinical reasoning skills that bridge controlled studies and real‑world practice. 

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Discuss the epidemiology of diastasis rectus abdominis across different phases of pregnancy

2. Explain the relationship between the linea alba and other core structures such as the pelvic floor within the abdominal manometric system

3. Identify and appraise current research evidence (including evidence‑based and practice‑based inquiry) related to the management of pregnancy‑related DRA

4. Provide evidence‑informed, conservative care principles for pregnancy‑related DRA from a primary healthcare perspective, with emphasis on the physiotherapist’s role 

Audience

This course is designed for clinicians and healthcare professionals who support perinatal populations, including:

• Physiotherapists with an interest in pelvic health and perinatal care

• Rehabilitation professionals working with pregnant or postpartum clients

• Clinicians seeking current, evidence‑informed perspectives on DRA management

• Practitioners aiming to enhance confidence in conservative care for pregnancy‑related abdominal conditions