Diastasis recti after delivery: what to know

Diastasis recti after delivery can affect abdominal support, breathing and movement, but symptoms can be assessed and treated progressively. The midline tissue between the abdominal muscles may feel soft or stretched, especially during lifting or getting up. Delivery recovery is individual, so function and comfort should guide activity.

A central ridge, outward bulging, back discomfort or trouble maintaining posture may signal reduced coordination between the diaphragm, abdominal wall and pelvic floor. Some people notice pelvic pressure, leaking or constipation-related straining as well. These findings do not confirm one diagnosis; a hands-on assessment can check muscle tension, scar or tissue changes, breathing and load management.

Practise a relaxed breath and gently narrow the lower abdomen on the exhale without gripping or bearing down. Use side-rolling to rise, exhale before lifting, and change positions regularly. Choose exercises that stay controlled, then increase repetitions or resistance gradually. A postnatal physiotherapist can adapt rehabilitation to delivery type, pain and pelvic-floor symptoms. Read [Postnatal Physiotherapy](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/postnatal-physiotherapy/) to explore this support.

Seek an appointment if pain, weakness, pelvic pressure, leaking or bowel difficulty persists or limits ordinary activity. Obtain urgent assessment for severe pain, fever, fainting, vomiting, heavy bleeding, wound changes, or a hard tender bulge. A clinician can decide whether these signs relate to delivery recovery or another condition.

Ask how your abdominal wall is functioning, whether your pelvic floor needs assessment, and what effort level is suitable. Ask which symptom should trigger a pause and when your programme should be reassessed.