Is It Normal for Diastasis to Be Painful?

During the birth of my twins 2 years ago, I had a classic c section. I was told I had diastasis 5" from the top of my ribs all the way down. I've noticed I often get pain around the navel area. My stomach is swollen most days, and it feels like there is something pushing through where the abs are separated. Even to have a bowel movement I have to hold the muscles together and it causes pain. My dr. dismisses it and says talk to a ps. I'm 5'2", 120lb, so I guess it could be from extra weight.

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by Krism75

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Diastasis and pain

It sounds like you may have a hernia. You should see a general surgeon. If your doctor dismisses your concerns again, find a new doctor. Best, Asif Pirani, MD, FRCS(C)

Diastasis and Abdominal Pain

Dear Krism1975, I am sorry to hear about your abdominal pain but it is not likely due to your diastasis. Most patients have little to no discomfort due to the separation of their rectus muscles however, given the description of your symptoms, it is possible that you have an abdominal hernia. A hernia is a hole or a tear in the abdominal wall that can allow a piece of the intestines or other structures inside your abdominal cavity to push through the opening. This can be... more

Pain from a diastasis

Your description of the discomfort is pretty typical when a patient has a wide diastasis. And could well be corrected witha tummy tuck and diastasis repair. I agree with your doctor thata consult with a PS is a good idea.

Is It Normal for Diastasis to Be Painful?

There are no absolutes, but typically a diastasis should not cause pain. There could well be a hernia present at the same time, and pain is much more common in that setting. It might make sense to begin by seeing a plastic surgeon, who should be able to identify a hernia if present. If so it may be something he/she would repair, or something that would be referred to a general surgeon. A tummy tuck and repair of diastasis could be done at the same time as the hernia... more

Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain will not come from a diastasis, I assume that during the pregnancy you may have developed a umbilical hernia. Its a fairly simple diagnosis to make by a surgeon.