Separated abs after C-section

Diastasis recti develops when the connective tissue between the abdominal muscles stretches as the uterus grows. A caesarean incision is lower on the abdomen and does not usually explain the whole midline separation, but pain, guarding, scar sensitivity, and reduced movement can affect how you use your core while healing.

Doming when sitting up, a soft midline, back discomfort, or reduced confidence with lifting may occur. A clinician can also check the wound, a possible hernia, pelvic-floor symptoms, and whether pain has another cause.

Keep the incision clean and follow your discharge instructions. Walk gently, brace the area with your hand or a pillow when coughing if advised, and avoid lifting more than you were told to lift. Exhale during effort instead of holding your breath, and return to abdominal exercise in stages.

Postnatal physiotherapy can address scar mobility, breathing, abdominal control, posture, and pelvic-floor coordination. The type of birth does not determine a single recovery plan; your wound status and symptoms matter more.

Contact your maternity team for increasing wound redness, swelling, opening, discharge, fever, worsening pain, or new abdominal weakness. Seek urgent care for severe pain, faintness, heavy bleeding, vomiting, or a painful lump. New severe headache or visual changes after birth need urgent assessment, including consideration of pre-eclampsia.

Ask when your wound is ready for specific exercises, how to lift your baby safely, whether the scar or abdominal bulge needs review, and whether physiotherapy is appropriate. If planning another pregnancy, ask how your recovery affects timing and care.