Evaluation of the physical and psychosocial consequences of the diastasis of the rectus abdominis and its interference in health: A mixed study

Introduction: Diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) is defined as the separation of the rectus abdominis along the linea alba. This condition can occur in both sexes, being frequent in women during pregnancy and pospartum. There is little evidence on the consequences of DRA on the quality of life of women. Objective: The analysis of the perception of the symptoms of and its repercussion on a physical, psychological and social level in women affected by this condition. Patients and methods: Observational study through a semi-structured online survey, composed of 30 closed questions and 2 open ones. The inclusion criteria were adult Spanish-speaking women who had given birth and who presented abdominal di & aacute;stasis. The data were analyzed quantitatively and the qualitative information was obtained through a content analysis of the open questions. Results: 319 women with DRA were included. The results showed a negative effect of DRA on quality of life, functional capacities, and urogynecological and digestive health. Likewise, a negative impact was evidenced at an emotional level, on body image and poor self-perceived health. Conclusion: DRA has a negative impact on women's health. Women with DRA present an impairment of the quality of life and functional capacities, an alteration in body image, feelings of abandonment by health institutions, shame, sadness, powerlessness, lack of self-esteem, resignation and social pressure. (c) 2022 Sociedad Espanola de Rehabilitacio<acute accent>n y Medicina F & imath;<acute accent>sica. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U. All rights reserved.