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Mothers' experiences living with diastasis recti abdominis - an interview study
Viktoria Marander1, Målfrid Råheim1, Inger Haukenes1,2
1Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Alrek helseklynge, blokk D, Årstadveien 17, Bergen, 5009, Norway.
Mothers with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) face challenges in understanding their condition and navigating healthcare, impacting daily life, self-image, and social interactions. Improved provider support is needed for this common postpartum issue.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Women's Health
- Postpartum Recovery
Background:
- Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a prevalent postpartum condition.
- Limited understanding exists regarding mothers' lived experiences with DRA.
- Patient-provider interactions significantly influence healthcare experiences, particularly for women's health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of mothers with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA).
- To understand how mothers perceive and manage DRA in their daily lives.
- To investigate mothers' experiences with healthcare services concerning DRA.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured individual interviews with six Norwegian mothers (age 32-41) diagnosed with significant DRA.
- Exploration of condition experience, impact on daily life, and healthcare interactions.
- Systematic text condensation used for data analysis.
Main Results:
- DRA significantly impacts mothers' everyday lives, encompassing physical, emotional, and social dimensions.
- Mothers encountered difficulties in acquiring knowledge and understanding DRA, leading to uncertainty.
- Challenges in differentiating DRA symptoms from other health issues and feelings of being misunderstood by healthcare providers were reported.
Conclusions:
- Diastasis recti abdominis is a complex condition with wide-ranging effects on mothers' well-being.
- Enhanced understanding of mothers' experiences with DRA is crucial for healthcare professionals.
- Improved support and communication from healthcare providers can positively impact mothers living with DRA.
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