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Written by

Gina Conley, MS

Postpartum Belly Bands: Benefits, Myths & How to Choose the Right One

  • Motherhood, Postpartum

Hey everyone! I’m Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer, birth doula, and now a proud mom of four. As I embrace this new chapter with my three-day-old baby, I want to address a common question: What kind of belly band or wrap should you use for postpartum recovery?

Many new moms are inundated with marketing that promises waist-shrinking magic through belly bands, corsets, and waist trainers. However, I want to debunk some misconceptions about these products. While a well-chosen belly band can support your healing, the wrong one may cause more harm than good.

What To Look For in a Belly Band

  • Gentle Compression: The ideal belly band provides gentle compression without restricting your ability to breathe. This can help promote blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which is crucial in the early days postpartum. I’ve been using the Bao Bei Bloomers for gentle support while I recover.

 

  • Perineal Support for Vaginal Births: If you had a vaginal birth, look for bands that offer perineal support. Thick, supportive underwear can provide additional comfort and stability, which can be particularly beneficial during recovery.

 

  • Structured Support for C-Sections: If you’ve had a C-section, opt for belly bands with more structure. These can offer support, especially when you need to sneeze or cough, and help manage discomfort around your incision site. Brands like Bodily offer fantastic options.

 

  • Limited Wear: It’s essential to avoid wearing belly bands 24/7. They should be used selectively for the first two to four weeks postpartum to provide support when you need it most, without becoming a crutch.
Explore Our Postpartum Fitness Programs

Postpartum Belly Bands: What You Need to Know!

What to Avoid

  • Tightness: If a belly band is too tight, it can cause problems. Excessive pressure can lead to issues like increased pelvic floor strain and even worsen diastasis recti. The goal is to support, not constrict.

  • Marketing Gimmicks: Stay away from products marketed as waist trainers or those claiming to “heal” diastasis. Healing comes from strengthening your muscles and tissues, not from constricting them with a band.

Gina's Favorite Belly Band Companies

If you’re considering incorporating a belly band into your postpartum recovery, here are some of my top recommendations, along with exclusive discount codes to help you out!

1. Bao Bei (now called LoveSteady)

 

2. Bodily

  • Discount: Use code MAMASTE15 for 15% off orders over $125
  • Link: Shop Bodily

 

3. Mama Strut

 

These brands offer supportive options designed with postpartum recovery in mind. Remember to prioritize gentle compression and listen to your body as you heal.

Explore Our Postpartum Fitness Programs

Conclusion

Choosing the right belly band can make a difference in your postpartum recovery. Focus on gentle support, avoid tight and constrictive products, and listen to your body’s needs.

For more insights on postpartum recovery, fitness, and parenting, subscribe to my YouTube channel. Plus, check out our online postpartum courses for additional support. Use code YOUTUBE10 for 10% off any offerings on our website, mamastefit.com.

Stay tuned for more as I share my journey back to fitness in the coming weeks. You’ve got this, mama!

Helpful Tips on How to Check For Diastasis

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GINA & ROXANNE
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