The changes in abdominal appearance associated with diastasis recti, such as a noticeable bulge or protrusion in the midsection, can significantly impact the postpartum body and self-esteem. Many moms struggle with feelings of dissatisfaction and self-consciousness about their appearance, especially if they perceive their bodies as "flabby" or "out of shape" despite their efforts to exercise and eat healthy. These body image concerns may lead to feelings of inadequacy, depression or anxiety, affecting their overall well-being and confidence.

The weakened abdominal muscles and compromised core stability can affect the function of the pelvic floor muscles, which play a crucial role in supporting the bladder, uterus, and rectum. One may experience urinary incontinence, painful sex, and uterine prolapse. As a result, postpartum mothers with diastasis recti may experience difficulties controlling their bladder or bowel movements, leading to embarrassing and uncomfortable symptoms. 

Fascial restrictions can limit mobility, cause pain, or make it harder for your body to fully recover after childbirth. Fascia is the body’s connective tissue — when it’s tight or stuck, it can affect how you move, feel, and heal.

Diastasis recti can contribute to lower back pain as the weakened abdominal
muscles are unable to provide proper support to the midsection, leading to
strain and discomfort in the lumbar region. One may experience significant
physical discomfort, which can lead to sensations of weakness, instability, and
even pain in the midsection. This discomfort and severity of the ab muscle
separation may worsen during movements that require engagement of the core
muscles such as sitting up from a lying position, lifting heavy objects, and
ideal posture.

Someone with diastasis recti may experience digestive issues like bloating, constipation, and IBS due to weakened abdominal muscles. When the abdominal muscles are separated, the internal organs do not have adequate support. This allows for the internal organs to "spill forward" and out of its ideal positioning, which makes digestion more difficult.

Postpartum mothers with diastasis recti often experience discomfort in the abdominal region due to an umbilical hernia. This may cause pain around the belly button with a noticeable bulge while engaging the core muscles, sitting up, bending forward, or lifting objects. Due to weakened abdominal muscles, there is strain and intra-abdominal pressure, leading to persistent discomfort and soreness.