1. Curl Up Test

Lie on your back with your knees bent. Slowly lift your head and shoulders up off the floor keeping your chin tucked in.

2. Leg Lift Test

Lie on your back with your legs straight. Lift one leg up off the ground about 2 inches.

During each test, check for the following:

• Do you have back or pubic pain with these tests? • Try to feel the borders of the (rectus abdominus) muscles along the middle of your tummy.

Is there a ‘soft’ gap or separation of these muscles? (see photo)

• Do you see any bulging or doming of your abdomen? (see photo)

• Feel your pelvic floor (at the opening of your vagina). Is there descent or bulging out?

If any of the above occurs, see the pelvic floor physical therapist for a complete assessment of your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles before beginning to exercise again after labor.