Stomach coning, also known as “doming” or “tenting,” is a temporary protrusion of the abdomen that can occur during pregnancy. It is common, particularly in later trimesters, and is often observed during movements that engage the abdominal muscles.
Understanding Stomach Coning
Stomach coning appears as a ridge or bulge that runs vertically down the center of the abdomen, typically extending from the sternum to the belly button. It becomes visible when movements create pressure within the abdomen, such as sitting up from a lying position, coughing, sneezing, or straining. The bulge is an outward projection of internal abdominal contents.
What Causes Coning
Coning is primarily caused by diastasis recti, the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, commonly known as the “six-pack” muscles. This separation occurs due to the stretching and thinning of the linea alba, a connective tissue that runs down the midline of the abdomen and joins these muscles. As pregnancy progresses, the growing uterus places increased pressure on the abdominal wall, causing the linea alba to stretch and thin. When intra-abdominal pressure rises, internal organs can push forward through this weakened midline tissue, creating the characteristic cone shape. This muscular adaptation accommodates the growing baby.
Is Coning a Concern
Stomach coning itself is not dangerous to the baby and does not indicate an immediate medical emergency. However, it signals that the body is not effectively managing intra-abdominal pressure. Coning is a visual cue of abdominal muscle separation and often indicates the presence of diastasis recti. The concern with persistent coning lies in its potential implications for long-term core health.
Continued coning can indicate a weakened core, which may contribute to issues such as lower back pain or pelvic floor dysfunction. It can also make postpartum recovery more challenging. If the coning is hard to the touch during exertion or is accompanied by pain or significant discomfort, consult a healthcare provider. Monitoring coning helps individuals understand how their body is managing pressure and when activity modifications may be beneficial.
Preventing and Managing Coning
Managing stomach coning involves strategies to support core health and minimize outward pressure during pregnancy. One effective technique for getting out of bed or off the floor is the “log roll.” Instead of sitting straight up, roll onto your side first, then use your arms to push yourself up, avoiding direct strain on the abdominal muscles.
Avoid traditional core exercises that can exacerbate coning, such as crunches, sit-ups, planks, or any movements that cause the belly to visibly dome or bulge. Instead, focus on exercises that support the transverse abdominis, the deep abdominal muscle that acts like a natural corset. Examples include pelvic tilts and gentle core engagement exercises, often incorporating diaphragmatic breathing.
Diaphragmatic breathing, where you inhale deeply allowing the belly to expand and exhale by drawing the abdominals inward, helps manage intra-abdominal pressure. Coordinating an exhale with the more challenging phase of a movement can help support the core. Maintaining good posture, with ribs stacked over hips, also helps optimize core function and reduce strain on the abdominal wall. Consulting a pelvic floor physical therapist can provide personalized advice and exercises tailored to individual needs.