My diastasis gap varies when I test it – is that normal?

Yes, it is. The gap may be wider higher up towards your sternum or wider lower down towards your bikini line.  Where you notice it the most does not really matter though – because the underlying cause is the same.

The key is that you get a feel for your personal situation when you first begin, so that you have a benchmark to work from. 

If the gap is much wider at one point, then that is where you want to focus your mind when doing the core exercises and learning to engage your deep muscles. That is where the connection is weakest so try taking your mind and efforts there when you work.

But don’t get hung up about the measurement or keep testing it. The test process itself is not helpful to your core (here’s why).

Remember that a diastasis is merely a sign of a malfunctioning core - of excessive, unsupported intra-abdominal pressure (not to be confused with the normal separation of your abdominal muscles during pregnancy.)

Furthermore, it is important to understand that overall core function and connective tissue tension are much more important than just the size of the gap Wendy explains this in more detail here.