Different types of diastasis recti

The separation may be felt above the navel, below it, or along a longer area between the breastbone and pubic bone. Some people notice a central ridge or doming when they sit up, cough or lift. Others have a softer midline without an obvious bulge. Clinicians may also describe the gap by its width, the firmness of the tissue, and how well the abdominal wall manages pressure. These features do not by themselves determine how serious the problem is.

Pregnancy can stretch the linea alba, the connective tissue joining the two sides of the abdominal wall. Changes in breathing, posture, lifting technique and pelvic-floor coordination can influence symptoms. A separation can be present without pain, while another person may have back discomfort, reduced trunk control or difficulty returning to exercise.

A physiotherapy assessment can check abdominal tension, breathing, posture and functional tasks such as rolling in bed or lifting a child. Rehabilitation often begins with coordinated breathing and gentle deep-core activation, then progresses according to control and comfort. Avoid forcing exercises that cause pronounced doming, breath-holding or pain. Move through the day with support for the abdomen and use a side-roll technique when getting out of bed if that feels more comfortable.

[Postnatal Physiotherapy](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/postnatal-physiotherapy/) may be useful after pregnancy, including when symptoms continue after the early recovery period.

Arrange an assessment if the separation is associated with persistent pain, worsening back symptoms, a tender bulge, reduced function or difficulty returning to ordinary activity. Seek urgent care for sudden severe abdominal pain, vomiting, fainting, a rigid abdomen or a bulge that becomes very painful and cannot be gently eased back.

Ask where your separation is located, whether a hernia could also be present, which movements currently increase pressure, and how rehabilitation should be progressed. You can also ask when it is appropriate to resume lifting, running or other preferred activities.