What is the Mum Tum?

The term "mum tum" is colloquially used to describe the changes that a woman’s abdomen undergoes after pregnancy. The other phrases used include ‘mummy tummy’ or ‘mum belly.’ It refers to the excess fat, loose skin, and muscle separation (diastasis recti) that can occur postpartum or after having a baby. Many women find that their abdominal area does not return to its pre-pregnancy state even with a healthy diet and exercise, leading to concerns about their appearance and a desire for further treatment.

Causes of Mum Tum

1. Pregnancy-related Changes:

During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles and skin stretch significantly to accommodate the growing baby. This stretching can cause the muscles to weaken and the skin to lose its elasticity, leading to the appearance of a mum tum after childbirth.

2. Diastasis Recti:

Diastasis recti is a condition where the rectus abdominis muscles (the "six-pack" muscles) separate along the midline of the abdomen. This separation can create a bulge in the middle of the abdomen, contributing to the mum tum. It is quite common during and after pregnancy due to the pressure exerted by the growing uterus.

3. Weight Gain:

Weight gain during pregnancy is natural and necessary for the health of the mother and baby. However, the excess fat accumulated in the abdominal area can be difficult to lose postpartum, especially if the weight gain was significant.

4. Hormonal Changes:

Hormonal fluctuations during and after pregnancy can affect fat distribution and skin elasticity. These hormonal changes can make it challenging for some women to lose the extra weight and for their skin to tighten naturally after childbirth.

5. Lack of Exercise:

Postpartum, many women find it difficult to return to their previous levels of physical activity due to the demands of caring for a newborn. This can result in weakened abdominal muscles and difficulty in losing excess abdominal fat.

Features of Mum Tum

1. Excess Skin and Fat:

One of the most noticeable features of a mum tum is the presence of excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. The skin may appear loose or saggy, and there can be a noticeable accumulation of fat.

2. Muscle Separation:

If diastasis recti is present, there may be a visible bulge or protrusion in the midline of the abdomen, especially when the abdominal muscles are contracted.

3. Stretch Marks:

Stretch marks are a common feature of the mum tum. These marks occur when the skin is stretched rapidly, as it does during pregnancy, leading to tearing in the dermis.

4. Change in Body Shape:

The overall shape of the abdomen may change, with a more rounded or protruding appearance that does not respond to diet or exercise as effectively as it did before pregnancy.

How to Treat the Mum Tum

Treating a mum tum involves a combination of lifestyle changes, physical exercises, and potentially medical or surgical interventions. Here are some approaches to consider:

1. Diet and Nutrition:

A healthy diet is crucial for reducing excess body fat. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive calorie intake. Staying hydrated is also important for overall health and skin elasticity.

2. Exercise:

Engaging in regular physical activity can help tone abdominal muscles and reduce body fat. Core strengthening exercises, such as planks, bridges, and pelvic tilts, can be particularly effective. High-impact exercises may need to be avoided initially to prevent further muscle separation.

3. Physiotherapy:

A physiotherapist specialising in postpartum recovery can provide targeted exercises and techniques to help strengthen the abdominal muscles and address diastasis recti. Physiotherapy can be an effective non-surgical option for many women.

4. Postpartum Support Garments:

Wearing postpartum support garments, such as abdominal binders or compression wraps, can provide temporary support and help improve posture. These garments can also aid in the healing process by supporting the abdominal muscles.

5. Non-Surgical Treatments:

There are several non-surgical treatments available that can help tighten skin and reduce fat in the abdominal area. These include:

• Radiofrequency Therapy: This treatment uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin. This includes devices such as Morpheus8. 
• Ultrasound Therapy: Similar to radiofrequency therapy, ultrasound treatments use sound waves to penetrate the skin and promote collagen production, resulting in tighter skin.
• Emsculpt Neo: This device combines radiofrequency with muscle stimulation to help reduce fat and build muscle. There are studies that have shown the benefits of this to help reduce the diastasis of the recti muscles.

6. Surgical Options:

For more significant or persistent mum tum or mummy tummy issues, surgical options may be considered. These include:

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): This is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles. It is particularly effective for women with significant loose skin and diastasis recti.

Liposuction: This procedure involves the removal of excess fat deposits through suction. It can be used in conjunction with a tummy tuck for more comprehensive results.

7. Laser Therapy:

Laser treatments can be used to improve the appearance of stretch marks and tighten skin. These treatments work by stimulating collagen production and promoting skin renewal.

8. Skincare:

Using topical treatments that contain ingredients like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, and peptides can help improve skin elasticity and appearance. Consistent skincare can enhance the results of other treatments and maintain skin health.

Conclusion

The mum tum or mummy tummy is a common concern for many women post-pregnancy, resulting from a combination of factors such as excess skin, fat, and muscle separation. Addressing these issues often requires a multi-faceted approach, including diet, exercise, physiotherapy, and possibly medical or surgical interventions. By understanding the causes and features of the mum tum, women can make informed decisions about the best treatments for their individual needs and work towards achieving their desired body shape. As always, it is important to consult with professionals such as Mr Nassab to determine the most appropriate and safe treatment options. At his clinic, CLNQ, we offer the full range of non-surgical and surgical options to help with your mum tum concerns.