Why Does My Stomach Look So Uneven? Unpacking the Causes

September 30, 2025 •

5 min read

According to Healthline, it's pretty normal for people to have asymmetrical body features, and having perfectly symmetrical abs is a rarity. So if you're wondering, "Why does my stomach look so uneven?" you're not alone, and the reasons can range from benign factors like genetics and body fat distribution to medical issues such as hernias or diastasis recti.

Quick Summary

An asymmetrical stomach can be caused by genetic factors influencing muscle shape, uneven fat distribution, or muscle imbalances from training or poor posture. Other causes include postpartum diastasis recti, bloating from digestive issues, or more serious conditions like hernias or scoliosis. Diagnosis by a healthcare provider is key to determining the root cause and appropriate action.

Key Points

Genetics Play a Major Role: The shape and alignment of your abdominal muscles, including the position of the tendinous intersections that create your 'six-pack,' are largely determined by your genes.
Fat Distribution is Often Uneven: It is common for the body to store fat unevenly, with more localized pockets of fat often appearing in the lower abdomen or on one side.
Muscular Imbalances are Common: Unbalanced training routines or poor posture can cause one side of your core muscles to develop more than the other, creating an asymmetrical appearance.
Diastasis Recti Causes a Bulge: This is a separation of the abdominal muscles, most often occurring postpartum, but it can be corrected with physical therapy.
Hernias Require Medical Attention: A hernia is a bulge that occurs when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall and may require surgery.
Bloating Can Cause Temporary Asymmetry: Trapped gas from digestive issues or food intolerances can lead to uneven swelling that can be managed through diet.
Scoliosis Affects Abdominal Alignment: An abnormal spinal curve can cause the torso and abdomen to appear uneven due to uneven pressure and muscle tension.
When to See a Doctor: Seek medical advice for new, painful lumps, persistent changes, or if you suspect a hernia or diastasis recti.

What Are the Common Causes of an Uneven Stomach?

An uneven or lopsided-looking stomach can be a source of frustration, but in most cases, it is not a sign of a serious health problem. Understanding the potential causes can provide peace of mind and help you determine if any action is needed. From natural bodily variations to specific medical conditions, there are several reasons for an asymmetrical abdominal appearance.

Genetic Factors

For many, the reason for an uneven stomach lies in their genetics. The rectus abdominis, the muscle group that forms the "six-pack," is split by connective tissue known as the linea alba. Horizontal bands called tendinous intersections divide this muscle further. The positioning of these intersections is genetically determined and can be naturally staggered or misaligned, causing the abs to appear crooked even in very fit individuals. This is often the primary reason why even dedicated bodybuilders can have uneven abs that are perfectly strong. There is little that can be done to change this type of asymmetry, which is more of a cosmetic concern than a functional one.

Uneven Fat Distribution

Another common cause is the way the body stores fat. Fat is not always stored uniformly, and some people may have more localized fat deposits on one side or in a specific area of the abdomen, such as the lower belly. Significant weight fluctuations can also contribute to this, leaving behind stubborn pockets of fat or loose skin. This is a normal variation and not typically a cause for concern. Reducing overall body fat through a healthy diet and exercise can often help to create a more even appearance.

Muscular Imbalances and Posture

Muscular imbalances within the core can also lead to an uneven stomach appearance. This can be caused by:

Unbalanced Training: Engaging in one-sided sports like tennis or golf, or consistently favoring one side during weightlifting, can cause one set of abdominal muscles to become stronger and more developed than the other.
Poor Posture: Habits like slouching or sitting with uneven weight distribution can lead to a misalignment of the spine, stretching muscles on one side of the core while shortening them on the other.
Dysfunctional Musculature: Sometimes, weaknesses or tightness in other areas, such as the back, can affect spinal alignment and, in turn, the abdominal muscles.

Diastasis Recti

Diastasis recti is the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles along the linea alba. While most common in pregnant and postpartum women due to hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus, it can also affect men and weightlifters. This condition can cause a noticeable "doming" or bulge, especially during physical exertion. In many cases, physical therapy and targeted core exercises can help strengthen the abdominal wall.

Digestive Issues and Bloating

Bloating, often caused by trapped gas, can sometimes manifest asymmetrically, creating a bulge on one side of the abdomen. Causes can include:

Food intolerances or sensitivities
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Constipation
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Adjusting your diet and managing the underlying digestive issue can help resolve this.

Hernias and Other Medical Conditions

In some cases, a lump or bulge in the stomach area can indicate a hernia. A hernia occurs when fatty tissue or an internal organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue. Some hernias are asymptomatic, while others may cause discomfort or pain. Less common, but more serious, causes of abdominal asymmetry include enlarged organs (like the liver or spleen), growths, or issues related to scoliosis (a curved spine). If the unevenness is accompanied by pain, a firm lump, or other symptoms, a medical evaluation is warranted.

A Comparison of Asymmetrical Stomach Causes


Feature	Genetics	Uneven Fat Distribution	Diastasis Recti	Muscle Imbalance	Hernia
Primary Cause	Inherited muscle insertion points	Natural fat storage patterns, weight fluctuation	Separation of abdominal muscles	One-sided training, poor posture	Weakness in abdominal wall
Appearance	Abs look staggered or misaligned	Localized fat pocket, often lower abdomen	Midline bulge, especially with exertion	One side of abs more defined	Visible bulge that may come and go
Accompanying Symptoms	Usually none	None, unless related to weight gain	Back pain, core weakness	Poor posture, back pain	Possible pain, discomfort
Treatment Potential	Low; often only cosmetic surgery	High; through diet, exercise	High; with physical therapy, exercise	High; with unilateral exercises, PT	High; with surgical repair

What You Can Do About an Uneven Stomach

For most people, the appearance of an uneven stomach can be managed or improved with lifestyle changes and targeted exercises. If you've ruled out a serious medical condition with a doctor, here are some strategies to consider:

Focus on Balanced Core Training: Incorporate exercises that work both sides of your core equally. Unilateral exercises, which train one side at a time, can help address muscle imbalances. Examples include side planks, single-arm presses, and suitcase carries.
Improve Posture: Be mindful of your posture, especially if you sit for long periods. Strengthening your back and core muscles can help align your spine and reduce the tension on one side of your abdomen. Physical therapy can be beneficial for severe postural issues.
Manage Body Fat: Since fat distribution is a common cause, focusing on overall fat loss through regular cardio and a balanced diet can help reduce the appearance of unevenness. As your overall body fat decreases, localized pockets of fat will diminish as well.
Address Digestive Health: For bloating-related unevenness, keep a food diary to identify triggers and incorporate digestive-friendly habits. Walking can stimulate the digestive system and help pass trapped gas, and increasing fiber and water intake can prevent constipation.
Seek Physical Therapy: If you have diastasis recti, a physical therapist can guide you through specific exercises to help retrain the deep core muscles and improve abdominal integrity. A self-test can help you determine if diastasis recti is a possibility.

When to See a Doctor

While many causes of an uneven stomach are harmless, it is important to seek medical advice if you experience any of the following:

The unevenness is accompanied by pain, especially sharp pain or discomfort.
You feel a new, firm, or growing lump in your abdomen.
The bulge appears suddenly, or you suspect you have a hernia.
You experience changes in bowel movements, fever, or vomiting.
The unevenness is accompanied by persistent back pain or noticeable spinal curvature, which could indicate scoliosis.
If you are postpartum and suspect diastasis recti, a doctor can confirm the diagnosis and recommend a physical therapist.

Conclusion

An uneven stomach is a common concern with a wide range of potential causes. In many cases, it is a normal, harmless result of genetics, body fat distribution, or minor muscular imbalances. However, it can sometimes be a sign of a medical issue like diastasis recti, a hernia, or scoliosis. By understanding the underlying reasons, you can make informed decisions about whether to address the issue through lifestyle changes, exercise, or a visit to a healthcare provider. Embracing natural body variations while being attentive to any potential health concerns is key to a positive body image and overall well-being.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any health concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is very normal. Most people have some degree of asymmetry in their body, and the alignment of the connective tissue that separates your ab muscles is often genetically determined. It is not typically a medical concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.

Yes, focusing on a healthy, balanced diet and consistent exercise can help with overall fat reduction. As your body fat percentage decreases, any localized fat pockets that contribute to the uneven appearance will also likely diminish.

Diastasis recti is a separation of the left and right sides of the outermost abdominal muscles, often occurring after pregnancy. It can cause a bulge or 'doming' effect, particularly when engaging the core, and can be addressed with specific physical therapy exercises.

Yes, poor posture, such as slouching or having a spinal curve (like scoliosis), can affect the alignment of your abdominal muscles and core. This can create an uneven appearance by stretching some muscles while shortening others.

Yes, a hernia is a potential cause of a bulge or unevenness. It occurs when an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. Some hernias are painless, but any new or painful lump should be evaluated by a doctor.

To correct muscle imbalances, you can incorporate unilateral exercises that train each side of your core individually. Examples include side planks, single-arm rows, and suitcase carries. Focusing on proper form and resisting rotation is key.

You should see a doctor if you notice a new or painful lump, persistent bulging, or if the unevenness is accompanied by back pain, digestive issues, or changes in how you stand.