The Transversus Abdominis Muscle: Its Role in Pregnancy, Birth, and Postnatal Recovery
The transversus abdominis (TrA) is the deepest of the abdominal muscles, playing a crucial role in core stability, spinal support, and intra-abdominal pressure regulation. This muscle acts like a corset around the abdomen, providing essential support to the lower back and pelvis. During pregnancy, birth, and postnatal recovery, the TrA undergoes significant changes and plays a vital role in maintaining strength, stability, and overall function.
The Role of the Transversus Abdominis in Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the growing baby places increasing demands on the mother’s core muscles, including the TrA. This muscle helps to:
Support the spine and pelvis – As the body adapts to the changing centre of gravity, the TrA helps stabilise the lumbar spine and prevent excessive strain on the lower back.
Reduce the risk of diastasis recti – A well-functioning TrA can help limit the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles (diastasis recti), which commonly occurs due to abdominal expansion.
Improve pelvic floor function – The TrA works closely with the pelvic floor muscles, assisting in maintaining continence and reducing the risk of pelvic organ prolapse.
Enhance breathing mechanics – As the diaphragm and ribcage adapt to the growing baby, the TrA supports efficient breathing patterns.
Weakness in the TrA during pregnancy can contribute to lower back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and postural imbalances. Strengthening this muscle before and during pregnancy can help mitigate these issues.
The Transversus Abdominis and Labour
The TrA also plays a role in labour and delivery by assisting with:
Pushing during labour – Coordinated activation of the TrA and pelvic floor muscles can improve the efficiency of pushing during the second stage of labour.
Providing core stability during contractions – A strong TrA helps stabilise the pelvis and spine, making labour more manageable.
Reducing strain on the lower back – Engaging the TrA can help distribute the physical effort of labour more evenly, reducing the likelihood of excessive lower back strain.
Women who have practised TrA activation during pregnancy may find it easier to engage these muscles effectively during labour.
Postnatal Recovery and the Transversus Abdominis
After birth, the TrA plays a key role in postpartum recovery, particularly in rebuilding core strength and supporting overall function. Benefits of TrA activation postpartum include:
Rehabilitation of diastasis recti – Engaging the TrA can aid in gradually bringing the rectus abdominis muscles back together.
Restoring pelvic floor function – Since the TrA and pelvic floor work together, strengthening the TrA can enhance pelvic floor recovery and help with issues like urinary incontinence.
Reducing postnatal back pain – Weakness in the TrA can contribute to postnatal lower back discomfort, making core strengthening essential.
Improving posture and stability – Proper TrA engagement supports postural realignment, which is often affected by pregnancy and childbirth.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
A physiotherapist can guide expectant and new mothers in safely activating and strengthening their TrA. Treatment may include:
Pelvic floor and core activation exercises – Gentle and progressive exercises tailored to pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Breathing techniques – Learning proper diaphragmatic breathing to enhance TrA function.
Postural education – Strategies to maintain good posture and minimise strain on the lower back.
Manual therapy – Hands-on techniques to support recovery and muscle function.
Conclusion
The transversus abdominis is a key muscle in pregnancy, birth, and postnatal recovery. Strengthening and properly engaging this muscle can enhance core stability, reduce pain, and support overall function. Physiotherapy plays an essential role in guiding women through exercises and strategies to optimise TrA function, leading to a healthier and more comfortable pregnancy and postpartum experience.
