Diastasis Recti: What It Is, Why It Happens, and What You Can Do About It

If you've noticed a gap or doming around the center of your tummy after having a baby, you may be experiencing diastasis recti. It is one of the most common postnatal conditions, yet one of the least talked about.

What Is It?

Diastasis recti (also known as DRAM ‘Diastasis of the Rectus Abdominis Muscle’) is the separation of the two columns of abdominal muscle that run down the centre of the stomach. During pregnancy, the growing uterus places pressure on the abdominal wall, causing the connective tissue between these muscles to stretch and widen. The result is a gap that can leave the core feeling weak, unstable, and unsupported. It is not just a cosmetic issue. It can affect posture, back pain, pelvic floor function, and the ability to perform everyday movements comfortably.

How Common Is It?

It can affect women regardless of the type of birth they had or how active they were during pregnancy.

The research paints a clear picture of just how common diastasis recti is, and how long it can persist. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (Sperstad et al., 2016) found that the prevalence of diastasis recti was 60% at six weeks postpartum, 45.4% at six months, and 32.6% at twelve months after childbirth.

Can It Be Treated?

With the right assessment and rehabilitation, significant improvement is absolutely achievable. The key is the right rehabilitation. Not all core exercises are appropriate immediately and it’s important to build up strength before looking at high level exercises. Professional assessment is essential to ensure you are exercising safely and effectively for your specific stage and ability.

What Should You Do Next?

If you suspect you have a tummy gap or have been experiencing weakness, back pain, or core instability since having a baby, a Mummy MOT® assessment is the ideal starting point. At a 75 minute appointment, it provides a thorough examination of your abdominal separation alongside your posture, pelvic floor, and overall recovery, giving you a clear, personalised plan to move forward with confidence.