Traditional treatment for diastasis rectus abdominis in postpartum mothers: a phenomenological study

Abstract

Background/Aims Diastasis rectus abdominis is common in postpartum mothers but few studies have examined its traditional treatments. This study's aim was to explore postpartum mothers' experiences of abdominal care and Javanese cultural care. Methods This phenomenological study was conducted in rural Yogyakarta, Indonesia from May to December 2022. A total of 13 purposively selected postpartum mothers were interviewed using a semi-structured in-depth guide. Data were analysed thematically. Results The five main themes were symptoms interfere with activities and appearance, traditional and non-traditional abdominal care, benefits of and barriers to traditional care, regular use of traditional care and the need for more effective, comfortable and practical tools. Conclusions Both traditional and non-traditional care for postpartum abdominal issues present challenges. There is a need for more effective, comfortable and practical treatment for the abdominal area. Implications for practice Further research is needed to develop tools for abdominal care for postpartum women that are effective, comfortable and practical.