What to know about a 1 cm diastasis recti

Diastasis recti describes widening and reduced tension along the connective tissue between the two sides of the rectus abdominal muscles. The figure may vary with the measuring method, the point along the abdomen and whether the muscles are relaxed or working.

A gap measurement does not show the whole picture. The firmness of the midline, control during movement, discomfort, bulging and the effect on daily activities are also relevant. A visible ridge when sitting up can occur when pressure pushes forward through the midline.

Notice whether the abdomen domes during getting out of bed, lifting or exercise. Exhale during effort, avoid breath-holding, and reduce or modify movements that repeatedly cause pronounced bulging or pain. General movement can continue when it feels comfortable.

A women's health or postnatal physiotherapist can assess breathing, abdominal coordination, pelvic-floor function and load tolerance. Rehabilitation is usually tailored to what you want to return to rather than aimed only at closing a measured gap.

Book an assessment if you have persistent abdominal or back discomfort, troublesome weakness, pelvic-floor symptoms, or uncertainty about returning to lifting and exercise. Seek prompt care for a new painful lump, vomiting with abdominal swelling, severe or worsening abdominal pain, or a bulge that becomes firm and cannot be gently reduced; these features can point to a hernia or another problem rather than the muscle gap itself.

Ask how your midline tension and abdominal control change with movement, whether a hernia is present, which exercises suit your current function, and whether pelvic-floor or postnatal physiotherapy would address your symptoms.