What should I do if my stomach is still very big 42 days after giving birth?

Apr 10, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
If fat is not promptly burned after childbirth, it may lead to abdominal fat accumulation; therefore, appropriate exercise and dietary control are recommended. For some women, the uterus may not have fully returned to normal within 42 days postpartum, so regular hospital check-ups and maintaining healthy eating habits are important. During childbirth, diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles) may occur, resulting in a noticeably protruding abdomen, which can generally be corrected through abdominoplasty surgery.

It is possible that the abdomen remains large 42 days after childbirth due to fat accumulation, incomplete uterine recovery, or diastasis recti, which may require corresponding general treatments or surgical interventions. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Fat Accumulation

During pregnancy, women need to consume sufficient protein to support normal fetal growth and development. However, if fat is not properly metabolized after delivery, it can accumulate in the abdominal area. This condition can be improved through appropriate exercise and dietary control.

2. Incomplete Uterine Recovery

In some women, the uterus may not have fully returned to its normal size by 42 days postpartum, which can also cause the abdomen to appear enlarged. Regular hospital check-ups are recommended to assess the extent of uterine recovery, along with maintaining healthy eating habits.

3. Diastasis Recti

Childbirth may lead to diastasis recti—separation of the abdominal muscles—resulting in a visibly protruding abdomen. This condition is typically treated surgically, such as through abdominoplasty (abdominal wall reshaping surgery).

Additionally, the enlarged abdomen could also be caused by chocolate cysts. During treatment, patients should strictly follow medical advice and undergo regular follow-up examinations to adjust treatment strategies promptly.