By Dr Prabhavathi Durai
Pregnancy transforms a woman’s body in remarkable ways—but some changes remain misunderstood, ignored, or even normalised when they shouldn’t be. One such condition is Diastasis Recti, a common yet under-addressed post-pregnancy core injury affecting millions of women worldwide.
In India, where postpartum recovery is often rushed or guided by myths, Diastasis Recti continues to
silently impact women’s health, posture, confidence, and long-term well-being.
What Is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis Recti is the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles (the “six-pack” muscles) along the midline of the abdomen, caused by the stretching of the connective tissue (linea alba) during pregnancy.
While some separation is normal during pregnancy, failure to heal properly after childbirth can lead
to persistent functional problems.
Why Diastasis Recti Is More Than a ‘Mom Belly’
Unfortunately, untreated Diastasis Recti is not just cosmetic.
Many women are told:
- “It’s normal after delivery.”
- “Just lose weight.”
- “Do crunches”
- “Give it time.”
Common Symptoms Include:
- Persistent belly bulge even months or years after delivery
- Lower back pain or pelvic pain
- Weak core and poor posture
- Urinary leakage
- Difficulty lifting or carrying the baby
- Digestive discomfort
- Reduced confidence and body awareness
Left unaddressed, it can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, hernias, and chronic back issues.
Why Indian Women Are at Higher Risk
Several factors increase the risk among Indian mothers:
- Multiple pregnancies with minimal recovery time
- Lack of structured post-partum rehabilitation
- Cultural pressure to “bounce back” quickly
- Incorrect exercise advice from social media
- Poor breathing patterns and chronic stress
Most women are never assessed for core recovery after childbirth.
The Biggest Mistake: Wrong Exercises
Traditional abdominal exercises like crunches, sit-ups, planks, leg raises, and even aggressive yoga
Poses can worsen Diastasis Recti when done too early or incorrectly.
Healing is not about intensity—it is about strategy, alignment, breathing, and nervous system regulation.
Can Diastasis Recti Be Healed Without Surgery?
Yes—in most cases, with the right guidance.
Evidence-based rehabilitation focuses on:
- Deep core activation (transverse abdominis)
- Diaphragmatic breathing
- Pelvic floor coordination
- Postural correction
- Functional movement retraining
- Gradual strength progression
Surgery is rarely the first line of treatment and should only be considered after a structured rehabilitation.
Why Awareness Is Crucial
Early identification and correct intervention can:
- Restore core strength and stability
- Reduce pain and leakage
- Improve posture and daily function
- Prevent long-term complications
- Help women feel confident and strong again
Most importantly, awareness permits women to heal—not rush.
A Message to New Mothers
Your body did not “fail.”
It adapted, protected your baby, and carried life.
You deserve proper recovery, not silence or shame.
If you notice persistent abdominal bulging, weakness, or discomfort after childbirth—even years
later—seek professional guidance. Healing is possible at any stage.
Diastasis Recti is not a cosmetic flaw—it is a core health condition that deserves attention, respect,
and proper care. By spreading awareness, we can empower women to rebuild their strength safely
and reclaim their bodies with confidence.
Post-pregnancy care should not end at delivery—it should begin there.
About the Author
Dr Prabhavathi Durai is a Physiotherapist with 24 years of experience which including over 14 years
of clinical experience, a Post-Pregnancy Fitness Coach, and an expert in Diastasis Recti rehabilitation
for 4 years. She is the Director of Prabha Physio Care & Wellness Clinic, founder of The Unique Mom,
and author of A Guide to Post-Pregnancy Care. She is dedicated to educating and supporting
mothers through evidence-based, compassionate recovery programs.
