If you’ve noticed a bulge down the center of your abdomen—especially after pregnancy—you may have rectus diastasis. It’s a common and often misunderstood condition that can affect posture, core strength, and even your self-confidence. The good news: it’s treatable.
What Does It Do?
People with rectus diastasis may experience:
- Abdominal bulging
- Abdominal discomfort or pressure
- Poor posture
- Difficulty using your core
- Lower back pain
While it's especially common after pregnancy, rectus diastasis can also occur in people who do heavy lifting or simply as part of the natural aging process.
Do I Have It?
Diagnosis of rectus diastasis can be tricky. It’s often mistaken for a hernia in patients. It is also common to have hernias in addition to rectus diastasis, especially near the belly button
If you suspect you may have rectus diastasis, it's important to consult with a specialist—such as an abdominal wall expert or hernia surgeon. Diagnosis typically involves:
- A physical exam to check for muscle separation
- Imaging, like a CT scan, to assess the abdominal wall and rule out associated hernias
Can It Be Fixed?
Some cases of rectus diastasis can improve with targeted physical therapy and core-strengthening exercises. However, the only definitive treatment is surgical repair.
During surgery:
- The separated abdominal muscles are brought back together and reinforced
- Any accompanying hernias can be repaired at the same time, with or without mesh
This repair can be done through traditional open surgery or using minimally invasive techniques, which involve just a few small incisions placed below the bikini line. Minimally invasive repair often leads to a faster, safer recovery and minimal visible scarring.
A Path Toward Confidence and Comfort
Rectus diastasis is common—and treatable. Whether your goal is to reduce pain, restore function, or feel more confident in your body, you don’t have to live with it. An experienced surgeon can help you determine the best course of action for your individual needs.
If you suspect you may have rectus diastasis, our Abdominal Wall Experts can help. To set up a consultation or to learn more, please call us at (212) 305-5947 or use our online appointment request form. We look forward to answering your questions and meeting your hernia care needs.
Related:
- The Truth About Hernia Mesh
- What Do I Buy for Hernia Surgery?
- Robotic Hernia Surgery: The Future is Here