Muscle separation
Measures the gap between the left and right rectus abdominis muscles to document its position and extent.
Abdominal wall imaging · London
Private Diastasis Recti Ultrasound Scan
A precise, hospital-grade ultrasound assessment of the abdominal wall, rectus abdominis muscles and linea alba—designed to measure muscle separation and assess associated weakness, bulging or possible hernia.
Private scan price
£390
Consultation, targeted abdominal-wall ultrasound and detailed written report included.
No GP referralDirect self-referral
Same-day optionsSubject to availability
Clear resultsVerbal findings explained
Detailed reportUsually within 24 hours
Open 7 daysLondon and St Albans
At a glance
What is a Diastasis Recti ultrasound?
A Diastasis Recti ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive scan used to assess separation between the left and right rectus abdominis muscles. It measures the inter-rectus distance, evaluates the linea alba and fascial layer, and can help identify associated abdominal-wall weakness, post-surgical change or a coexisting hernia.
It is commonly requested after pregnancy, major weight change, abdominal surgery, persistent abdominal bulging, core weakness, postural difficulty or lower-back discomfort.
Focused diagnostic assessment
A 360° view of the abdominal wall
The scan is tailored to the area of concern and your clinical history, with real-time assessment at rest and during controlled movement where appropriate.
Linea alba & fascia
Assesses the central connective tissue and fascial layers that help support the abdominal wall.
Dynamic behaviour
Evaluates the abdominal wall during gentle strain or muscle activation when clinically appropriate.
Associated findings
Reviews for hernia, muscle thinning, focal weakness and relevant post-surgical changes.
One appointment · one report
What your scan includes
- Targeted ultrasound of the abdominal wall and rectus abdominis muscles
- Measurement of the inter-rectus distance where clinically appropriate
- Assessment of the linea alba and fascial layer
- Review for hernia, muscle thinning and post-surgical change
- Consultation with an experienced ultrasound specialist
- Verbal explanation of the findings after the scan
- Detailed written report with relevant next-step guidance
- Onward referral guidance when clinically indicated
Understanding the condition
What is Diastasis Recti?
Diastasis recti is separation of the two large parallel bands of rectus abdominis muscle that run down the front of the abdomen. It frequently develops during pregnancy, but it may also occur in men or following repeated abdominal pressure, major weight change or abdominal surgery.
Common symptoms can include:
- A visible ridge, bulge or “pooch,” especially when straining or sitting up
- Weak abdominal muscles or reduced core stability
- Postural difficulty or persistent lower-back discomfort
- A sensation of abdominal-wall weakness or reduced support
Clarity for treatment planning
Why ultrasound can be useful
A physical examination may identify abdominal bulging, but ultrasound provides objective measurements and real-time imaging of the abdominal-wall structures.
Accurate measurement
Documents the muscle separation and its location, supporting a clearer baseline for clinical review.
Treatment guidance
Findings may help inform whether physiotherapy, rehabilitation, monitoring or surgical review is appropriate.
Progress monitoring
Repeat assessment may help document change during or after a structured rehabilitation programme.
Differential assessment
Helps distinguish muscle separation from an abdominal-wall hernia or another focal structural concern.
Who may benefit
When to consider a Diastasis Recti scan
After pregnancy
For persistent abdominal bulging, weakness or reduced core stability during postpartum recovery.
After surgery or weight change
For suspected muscle separation or weakness following abdominal surgery, rapid weight loss or weight gain.
Before rehabilitation
For an objective baseline before physiotherapy, core rehabilitation or specialist treatment planning.
During recovery
To monitor progress where a clinician or therapist has recommended repeat measurement.
With back or postural symptoms
Where reduced abdominal support may be contributing to lower-back pain, pelvic instability or posture concerns.
To check for hernia
Where a focal bulge, swelling or discomfort raises concern about an associated abdominal-wall hernia.
Benefits
Safe, precise and non-invasive
- No ionising radiation
- Real-time dynamic assessment
- Objective and repeatable measurements
- Suitable for postpartum assessment
- Supports personalised rehabilitation planning
Honest scope
What this scan does not replace
Ultrasound findings should be interpreted alongside your symptoms and clinical examination. The scan does not replace assessment by a GP, physiotherapist or surgeon when broader clinical evaluation is required.
If the scan identifies an abnormality or a concern outside the scope of ultrasound, your report will explain the recommended next step.
Your patient journey
From booking to a clear next step
A straightforward, specialist-led pathway designed to give you useful answers without unnecessary delay.
Book directly
Choose your preferred clinic, specialist and appointment time online.
Clinical discussion
Tell us about your symptoms, pregnancy, surgery, rehabilitation or relevant history.
Focused ultrasound
The abdominal wall is assessed and measured at rest and dynamically where appropriate.
Results & report
Your findings are explained and a detailed report supports the next stage of care.
Clinical governance
Specialist-led diagnostic care
Your scan is performed by an experienced ultrasound specialist using hospital-grade equipment within London Private Ultrasound’s established clinical governance and reporting pathways.
Experienced specialists
Focused assessment by appropriately trained ultrasound professionals.
Hospital-grade imaging
High-resolution ultrasound equipment for real-time structural assessment.
Regulated pathways
Care delivered within established clinical, privacy and reporting standards.
Two clinic locations
Central London at 27 Welbeck Street and St Albans at 54–56 Victoria Street.
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Frequently asked questions
Before your Diastasis Recti scan
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can self-refer and book the scan directly online or by telephone.
How much does the scan cost?
The Diastasis Recti / Abdominal Wall Ultrasound Scan costs £390, including the targeted scan, consultation, verbal explanation and detailed written report.
What does the scan assess?
It assesses the rectus abdominis muscles, inter-rectus distance, linea alba and fascial layers, as well as relevant abdominal-wall weakness, muscle thinning, post-surgical change or hernia.
Is the scan safe after pregnancy?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than ionising radiation and is commonly used during postpartum assessment.
Can men have Diastasis Recti?
Yes. Although it is often associated with pregnancy, diastasis recti can also occur in men and may be linked to repeated abdominal pressure, weight change, core weakness or surgery.
Can the scan check for a hernia?
The abdominal wall can be reviewed for an associated hernia. If a focal hernia is the principal concern, a dedicated dynamic hernia ultrasound may be recommended.
How should I prepare?
No fasting or full bladder is normally required. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the abdominal area and bring any relevant previous reports.
How long does the appointment take?
Please allow enough time for a brief clinical discussion, the focused ultrasound examination and an explanation of the findings. The exact duration may vary according to clinical complexity.
Will I receive my results on the day?
The specialist will usually explain the ultrasound findings verbally after the scan. Your written report is normally provided after review or within 24 hours.
Can ultrasound monitor rehabilitation progress?
Yes. Repeat measurements may help document change over time when monitoring has been recommended by your clinician or physiotherapist.
Does the scan diagnose the cause of back pain?
The scan assesses the abdominal wall rather than the spine. It may identify muscle separation or weakness that could be clinically relevant, but back pain may require separate assessment.
Where are the clinics?
London Private Ultrasound operates from 27 Welbeck Street in Central London and 54–56 Victoria Street in St Albans. Availability varies by service and date.
Are appointments available at weekends?
Yes. The clinics are open seven days a week, and same-day or short-notice appointments may be available.
Book directly · no GP referral
Book your Diastasis Recti Ultrasound Scan
Select your preferred clinic, date, time and specialist through our secure online booking page. If you are unable to make a payment online, call our team seven days a week.