Diastasis recti in infants

When a baby cries, strains, or moves from lying down, the abdominal wall can briefly push forward along the centre. A soft, non-tender line that settles when the baby relaxes may reflect normal movement or diastasis recti. A clinician should distinguish this from an umbilical or abdominal-wall hernia.

Infants cannot describe pain, so watch feeding, comfort, bowel movements, breathing, and usual alertness. Do not press repeatedly on the area or compare it with online photographs; the appearance changes with position and effort.

Mention the finding at the baby’s routine check, or arrange a paediatric assessment if it persists, becomes more noticeable, or worries you. Keep normal supervised movement and tummy time appropriate for the baby’s age. Avoid abdominal exercises, tight binding, taping, or forceful massage unless a paediatric clinician specifically recommends them.

If the baby’s parent is recovering after birth and needs abdominal rehabilitation, [Postnatal Physiotherapy](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/postnatal-physiotherapy/) offers relevant support for the parent, not a substitute for infant assessment.

Seek urgent medical help if the bulge is hard, painful, discoloured, rapidly enlarging, or does not soften when the baby settles. Get prompt help for repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, breathing difficulty, or fewer wet nappies. These signs need assessment regardless of whether diastasis recti is suspected.

Ask what the clinician feels on examination, whether the navel is involved, what changes to monitor, and which symptoms should prompt same-day care.