Impact of delivery mode on diastasis recti abdominis, pelvic floor muscle function, and quality of life in early postpartum women: a cross-sectional study - Report - MDSpire
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Impact of delivery mode on diastasis recti abdominis, pelvic floor muscle function, and quality of life in early postpartum women: a cross-sectional study
Effects of Delivery Method on Diastasis Recti Abdominis and Quality of Life
Overview
This study investigates the impact of delivery mode on diastasis recti abdominis (DRA), pelvic floor muscle strength, sleep quality, and overall quality of life in early postpartum women.
Background
The postpartum period is crucial for maternal recovery, with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) being a common condition that can affect physical and psychological wellbeing. Delivery mode may influence the severity of DRA and other postpartum outcomes.
Data Highlights
Outcome
Vaginal Delivery
Caesarean Section
P-value
DRA Prevalence
Lower
Higher
0.019
Inter-recti Distance (Umbilicus)
N/A
Wider
< 0.010
Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength
Weaker Fast-Twitch Fibres
N/A
0.036
Quality of Life (Physical Domain)
N/A
Lower Scores
0.017
Quality of Life (Psychological Domain)
N/A
Lower Scores
0.003
Key Findings
Caesarean section is associated with a higher prevalence of DRA compared to vaginal delivery.
Women with caesarean sections exhibited a wider inter-recti distance at umbilical and supra-umbilical levels.
Vaginal delivery was linked to significantly weaker fast-twitch pelvic floor muscle fibres.
Quality of life scores in physical and psychological domains were significantly lower in the caesarean section group.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should consider the delivery method when assessing postpartum recovery, particularly regarding DRA and pelvic floor muscle performance. Tailored rehabilitation programs that address sleep quality and specific recovery needs based on delivery mode may enhance maternal wellbeing.
Conclusion
Delivery mode is associated with distinct postpartum recovery trajectories.
