Diastasis recti under the belly button

The abdominal muscles sit on either side of a central band of connective tissue. Pregnancy, changes in abdominal pressure, or repeated straining can stretch this band. The lower portion may feel soft or less supported, and the tummy can dome or ridge when you sit up, cough, or lift. Some people notice back discomfort, pelvic-floor symptoms, or difficulty coordinating the trunk; others have no pain. A visible or palpable gap does not by itself show how well the muscles function, and a lower bulge can have causes other than diastasis recti.

Arrange an assessment with a clinician or pelvic-health physiotherapist if the change persists, affects movement, or follows childbirth. They can examine the gap, tension and muscle control, then adapt exercises to your stage of recovery. Use a side roll to get out of bed, breathe out during effort, and avoid repeatedly holding your breath while lifting. Begin with gentle deep-abdominal and pelvic-floor coordination rather than forceful sit-ups. Postnatal physiotherapy can provide supervised guidance when appropriate.

Seek prompt medical advice for a new painful or firm bulge, severe or worsening abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, faintness, or skin that becomes red or discoloured. Contact your maternity or primary-care team for bleeding, fluid loss, or concerning pregnancy symptoms. Arrange routine review if the separation is accompanied by persistent back pain, pelvic pressure, urine leakage, or reduced ability to do daily activities.

Could this lower abdominal change be diastasis recti or another type of bulge? How will you assess muscle tension and coordination? Which exercises and lifting modifications fit my recovery? What symptoms would mean I should contact you sooner?