Diastasis Recti: A Common but Overlooked Condition

If your tummy still appears rounded months after childbirth, it might be more than just leftover baby weight. It could be diastasis recti—a common yet often overlooked condition where the abdominal muscles remain separated after pregnancy.

Diastasis Recti Symptoms

What is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis recti, also called divarication of recti, is the medical term for abdominal muscle separation. It happens when the two sides of the rectus abdominis pull apart along the midline, often due to pregnancy, excess pressure, or poor core control.

This postpartum abdominal gap can cause weakness in your core, reduced muscle tone, and contribute to other issues like lower back pain or pelvic floor dysfunction.

How Diastasis Recti Appears Over Time

1. Early Pregnancy

Hormones like relaxin begin softening connective tissue. The abdominal wall prepares for expansion.

2. Mid to Late Pregnancy

As the baby grows, the abdominal muscles stretch. A visible bulging tummy during pregnancy or mild separation may appear.

3. Third Trimester

The doming abdomen becomes more obvious, especially when sitting up or engaging the core.

4. Post-Pregnancy

The uterus shrinks, but the abdominal separation often remains. Many notice a visible ridge or softness in the midsection.

5. Weeks to Months Postpartum

Without the right support, the gap may persist. This can lead to back pain, poor posture, and pelvic floor symptoms like urine leaks.

Diastasis Recti Symptoms

Wondering how to know if you have diastasis recti? These are some signs to look out for:`

Bulgy Abdomen

A soft or bulging ridge in the mid-abdomen

Doming Coning Belly

Doming or coning when doing sit-ups or lifting the head from lying down

Core Weakness

Weakness when engaging your core

Poor Posture

Poor posture or spinal discomfort

Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain

Pelvic Floor

Pelvic floor issues such as urinary incontinence

Diastasis Recti Singapore

Who is Affected

  • Women after pregnancy (especially with twins or multiple pregnancies)
  • People who do heavy lifting or strain the abdomen
  • Individuals with weak core stability or poor movement habits
  • Anyone experiencing core weakness after pregnancy

What Causes Diastasis Recti?

  • Natural hormonal changes during pregnancy
  • Repeated stretching of the abdominal wall
  • Straining without proper core activation
  • Rapid weight changes or improper exercise techniques

Can Diastasis Recti Lead to Other Problems?

Yes, diastasis recti can cause more than just a physical gap. If left unaddressed, it can lead to:

  • Poor core control
  • Lower back pain
  • Ongoing posture issues
  • Incontinence, including urine leakage when coughing, laughing, or exercising
  • Delayed or difficult postpartum recovery

Addressing Diastasis Recti Without Surgery

There are non-invasive ways to support recovery:

  • A proper review to check the depth and width of the gap
  • Targeted abdominal retraining using safe, guided techniques
  • Electromagnetic muscle stimulation (e.g. HIFEM) to re-activate deep muscle fibres
  • Ongoing support for related issues like urinary leakage

Book an Assessment at Orchard Clinic

If you’re dealing with a persistent abdominal gap or signs of abdominal muscle separation, it’s worth getting it checked. Book an assessment with us to understand your condition and explore supportive, non‑surgical options.

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Orchard

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#09-01A Singapore 238862
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