Diastasis Recti & Abdominal Wall Weakness Explained

1. Diastasis Recti After Pregnancy Pregnancy transforms your body in amazing ways. But for many women, one overlooked change is Diastasis Recti—a separation of abdominal muscles causing belly bulge, back pain, and core weakness.

2. What Is Diastasis Recti? Diastasis Recti occurs when your two vertical abdominal muscles (rectus abdominis) separate as the connective tissue between them stretches during pregnancy. This creates a visible bulge when you lean forward or strain. It's more than cosmetic—when your abdominal wall loses structure, it compromises posture, balance, digestion, and can cause lower back pain.

3. Why It Happens 01 02 03 Uterus Expansion Hormonal Changes Incomplete Recovery Your expanding uterus stretches the abdominal wall and relaxes the linea alba connective tissue. Relaxin and progesterone hormones increase flexibility, preparing your body for birth. In some women, stretching extends beyond natural recovery and muscles don't realign on their own. Risk factors include: Multiple or closely-spaced pregnancies, carrying twins or a large baby, weak core muscles before pregnancy, and poor posture during pregnancy.

4. Common Symptoms Visible Bulge Core Weakness A domed or protruding belly, especially when sitting up or straining Difficulty with core exercises and lifting activities Back Pain Digestive Issues Lower back ache and poor posture due to compromised abdominal support Digestive discomfort in more severe cases

5. Treatment Options Non-Surgical Surgical Correction Minor cases may improve with physiotherapy, core strengthening, and supervised postnatal exercises by pelvic floor specialists—most effective when started soon after delivery. For gaps over 4 centimeters or when physiotherapy doesn't work, surgery is the best solution. Modern minimally invasive techniques reunite divided muscles with only 3 small scars.

6. Benefits of Surgery Flatter Tummy Better Posture Stronger Core Tighter, more toned abdominal appearance Improved spinal stability and alignment Enhanced balance and functional strength Pain Relief Renewed Confidence Reduced or eliminated back pain Feel complete in body and spirit

7. Recovery Timeline Week 1–2 Week 6+ Slight swelling and stiffness; gentle movement only with compression garment Resume light exercise; noticeable improvement in core stability 1 2 3 4 Week 3–4 Month 3+ Return to normal activities; no heavy lifting. Lymphatic massage and walking recommended Fully healed with renewed strength and shape Recovery is usually uneventful thanks to advanced techniques that minimize discomfort and downtime. One overnight hospital stay is standard protocol.

8. Reclaim Your Strength If you're struggling with a stubborn belly bulge or back pain after childbirth, don't assume it's just "baby weight." It could be Diastasis Recti—and it's completely treatable. With decades of experience in specialized Rectus Abdominis Treatment in Dubai, I combine medical precision with an empathic, personal approach. My goal is to help you feel complete again—body and soul. It's never too late to treat abdominal separation after pregnancy. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a flatter, stronger, healthier you.

9. Dr. Daniel Serralta Address Phone no. Website C/o - Saudi German Hospital, Hessa Street 331 West Al Barsha 3, Exit - 36 Sheikh Zayed Rd - opposite of American School - Dubai +971 568 05 4323 Dr. Daniel Serralta