All pregnant women will develop a degree of abdominal separation during their third trimester of pregnancy. It is an amazing adaptation of your abdominal wall to allow growth of your baby

A ‘normal tummy gap’ is roughly the distance between your second and third knuckle and should feel like the space in between. It is not just about the gap, it is the tension that matters the most.

In pregnancy, the rectus abdominus muscle (commonly known as the '6-pack' muscle) will stretch and move towards either side of the abdominal wall. The linea alba which runs down the centre of the abdominal wall will also stretch and widen. This is referred to as ‘the gap’. For many women, this natural separation will close during the first 6-8 weeks postpartum. For others, the separation will remain causing a range of symptoms including lower back pain and pelvic floor muscle problems.

Women’s health physio can help you to rehabilitate the muscles. If you are concerned, abdominal wall assessment is included during a Post Natal MOT (mummy MOT)

postnatal check up south west london

Postnatal MOT
womens physio south west london

Women's Health Physiotherapy

Connect with us

Testimonials

  • 'The White Hart clinic is a haven of peace, support, kindness and cheerfulness'
  • 'It's calm and friendly yet really professional. I feel absolutely confident that I'm in expert hands'
  • 'I most like the range of people working there so you can have alternative ways of combating a problem. Secondly, the friendly and supportive approach'
  • 'If in pain you are fitted in as soon as possible, never too much waiting time.'
  • 'Reception staff are friendly and welcoming.'
  • 'The treatment is effective-you do not feel as if the treatment is prolonged unnecessarily.'
  • 'The staff are friendly and professional'
  • 'Very welcoming, cosy & small, relaxing atmosphere - of course most of all my therapist who has given me life changing results'
  • 'I feel the recommendations for the course of treatments and return visits are always very honest. They never take advantage'
  • 'It's like having the best clinic in Harley Street around the corner - when you're in pain that's exactly what you want. What a relief! What a comfort!'
  • 'High quality treatment, delivered in a personal way, but with great efficiency and all in a very convenient location!'
  • 'Packed full of friendliness and expertise'
  • 'Friendly and efficient place that helps repair me when things are not working properly!'
  • 'Friendly, professional and broad ranging'

Find us

Map

Richmond, Mortlake, Barnes, Putney.