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Warning-sign checks

Diastasis recti: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, collapse, breathing difficulty, or other signs of serious illness.

    These symptoms are not typical of uncomplicated diastasis recti.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent medical care for a lump that becomes suddenly painful, firm, tender, discoloured, or impossible to push back.

    Vomiting, increasing abdominal swelling, or inability to pass stool or gas with a painful lump may indicate a trapped or obstructed hernia.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you have a persistent abdominal bulge and are unsure whether it is diastasis recti or a hernia.

    Seek assessment if pain, weakness, pelvic floor symptoms, or difficulty with daily activities continues.

    Seek routine follow-up if:

    • Symptoms are not improving with gradual recovery or exercise
    • You avoid normal movement because of discomfort or fear
    • A focused lump develops around the belly button or a surgical scar
    • You want help returning to work, sport, or lifting
    • The condition affects your wellbeing or body confidence

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Diastasis recti. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.