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For a persistent pregnant-looking belly, moms recommend checking for diastasis recti and, if present, seeing a physiotherapist and doing safe core work (avoiding crunches and planks) rather than rushing strenuous ab exercise.
⚠️ Caution:Significant diastasis recti (e.g. four-finger separation) warrants a physiotherapist consultation. Avoid strenuous ab exercises like crunches and planks, which can worsen separation.
Moms are distressed that their tummy looks pregnant again months postpartum and fear it won't go back. The community reassures them this is often diastasis recti, which responds to proper physiotherapy-guided core work, and warns against the strenuous ab exercises that could make it worse.
Here's what moms in our community shared based on their own experience.
Check whether you have diastasis recti before doing core exercises. With significant separation (e.g. four fingers), see a physiotherapist - you need gentle core strengthening like glute bridges with proper breathing, and should avoid strenuous ab workouts like crunches and planks. There's helpful content on YouTube, but a physiotherapy consultation is worthwhile.
Some moms note the belly may also reduce once your period returns, and that light activity like walking helps meanwhile.
General reducing advice from moms: walking and exercise, started gradually.
The information shared on this page comes from real experiences of mothers in our community. While we strive to provide helpful insights, this content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician, healthcare provider, or other qualified medical professional for any questions regarding your child's health or development.
Last reviewed: June 17, 2026
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