Pain during sex, weaker core muscles: Signs of diastasis recti and how to treat this postpartum condition

When Jermaine Liang welcomed her two children, the happiness was tinged with discomfort and a dip in self-esteem. “I had pelvic pain after delivery, which made walking and running very uncomfortable. On top of that, I still looked seven months’ pregnant, even one and a half months after giving birth to my second child,” the 39-year-old sales specialist shares. 

Her diagnosis of diastasis recti, a condition involving a separation of the abdominal muscles, or what some fondly refer to as the “six-pack,” is a common issue faced by women during or after pregnancy. Up to 60 per cent of women may be affected, and they endure symptoms ranging from pelvic and lower back pain to discomfort during sex, difficulty lifting objects, walking, and even constipation.

Enter Avril Chong, 37, founder of Emkore Clinic, who empathises wholeheartedly with Jermaine’s struggle. As a mother-of-two herself, Avril faced her own battles with diastasis recti, grappling with pain that hindered her ability to walk or stand for extended periods. Her backaches intensified during the first few months postpartum, making constant sitting or lying down a necessity.

“Many treatments were expensive, making it inaccessible for women. Some of my friends also had similar postpartum issues but were unaware of possible solutions,” says Avril. “Recognising the potential for change, I became passionate about creating a centre that could help women like me through the advances in technology offering non-invasive therapies to address common postpartum conditions.”

In 2022, Avril opened Emkore Clinic, a wellness centre dedicated to women dealing with pre-pregnancy, postpartum and menopause issues. The clinic employs skilled therapists who have over a decade of experience in postnatal care, and are equipped to help women through a full range of chronic postpartum conditions like incontinence and misaligned body, as well as stretch marks and loss of skin elasticity.

Treatments are non-invasive and harness advanced technology

For women seeking to avoid corrective surgical procedures, Emkore Clinic’s EMShape EMS body contouring treatment emerges as an ideal option. An FDA-approved procedure, it harnesses advanced electromagnetic technology to target specific muscle groups, inducing muscle contractions and strengthening the core.

The EMShape EMS treatment prioritises safety, having undergone rigorous testing to ensure efficacy and harmlessness. Non-invasive and anaesthesia-free, Avril says it is well-tolerated by most individuals, with minimal discomfort experienced during sessions. Muscle soreness or fatigue, akin to what you’d feel after a workout, if any, subsides within a few days.

Avril emphasises the clinic’s dedication to scientifically proven, safe technology. “We meticulously research and evaluate new treatments and therapies, selecting only those that meet our stringent standards for quality and efficacy,” she explains. 

For concerns like incontinence and misaligned body posture, Emkore Clinic’s tailored programs combine non-invasive technology with exercise-based physical therapy.

Postpartum women often experience misaligned posture due to the shifting centre of gravity with the baby’s weight in the mid-section. Therapists here use freehand techniques, considering each individual’s unique physiology and lifestyle, to help restore optimal posture, enhancing mobility and balance.

Safe and welcoming environment, run by all-women consultants

Nestled in SOHO 1 @ The Central, Emkore Clinic has a bright and welcoming ambiance. Clients can enjoy warm beverages and healthy snacks during the initial consultation, where personalised treatment plans are discussed, catering to specific concerns.

Staffed exclusively by female consultants, the clinic offers detailed body checks to determine the ideal treatment package. Consultants take pride in providing honest, clear information, devoid of hard-selling tactics, and are not hesitant to advise against treatments when appropriate.

Upon starting the treatment, the therapist will also journey with the client throughout the process, monitoring progress and making any necessary adjustments along the way.

As Emkore Clinic operates on an appointment-only basis, this enables them to schedule manpower needs accordingly, providing efficient service and ensuring clients get back to their bustling lives promptly.

Helping women regain strength and confidence

For Jermaine, her quality of life has improved tremendously since embarking on her postpartum recovery journey at Emkore Clinic. After around eight sessions, walking and running became less painful, and after 15 sessions, the pain vanished, with a reduction in her diastasis recti gap by about 2cm.

“After approximately 50 sessions, my gap has closed from 10.6cm to 4.5cm. My belly has shrunk, and I now fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes. People no longer mistake me for being pregnant, and walking or running is no longer an issue,” Jermaine happily shares.

Avril takes great pride from witnessing the positive impact of the clinic’s therapies. “Knowing that I am making a difference in helping women to regain their strength, confidence and overall well-being is truly heartwarming,” she says.

To new mothers uncertain about seeking professional help, Avril offers the following advice:

• Trust your instincts
  As a new mum, intuition is a powerful tool. If you feel something is not quite right or you feel overwhelmed, it is a good idea to consult a healthcare professional or postpartum specialist. These experts can offer guidance and create a personalised plan to address your specific needs.

• Reach out to a support network
  Sharing your experiences and concerns with others can provide emotional support, along with helpful advice. Don’t hesitate to lean on your support network, whether it’s your partner, family, friends or fellow mums.

• Prioritise self-care and be patient with yourself
  Taking care of yourself is essential for your well-being and ability to care for your baby. Don’t feel guilty about taking breaks, getting enough rest and engaging in activities that bring you joy. Give yourself time to adapt and remember that it’s normal to experience ups and downs.

Emkore Clinic is at #08-14 SOHO 1 @ The Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street. For more information, visit www.emkoreclinic.sg.