After a mother delivers her child, her body has to go through a lot. Whether it is through natural birth or a C-section, bodily changes are always involved.
The abdominal muscles get loosened and stretched out. Moreover, there is a rapid growth of fat cells to support the uterus, hence the fat and saggy skin around the stomach.
Most active mothers want to get back into shape. However, it is not as easy as it may sound. That is because mothers can’t workout or follow an exercise routineright after childbirth, especially after having a C-section. This is where the best Post Pregnancy Belts come into the picture.
A Post Pregnancy Belt is a wide belt that is designed to support your post-partum belly. It is wrapped around your abdomen to support, repair, and tighten the muscles, and also to reduce the growth of fat and excess skin without you having to work out. Sounds like every mother’s dream. Right? So, if you too are tired of your loose belly and wish to have it toned, get yourself a post pregnancy belt, and you are good to go.
Benefits Associated with Post Pregnancy Belts
Post Pregnancy Belts are known to have many benefits. Let’s have a look at what these are:
- Back pain is one of the problems that almost every mother has to face after childbirth. This can be reduced by the use of post pregnancy belts, as they provide support by holding up the overabundant stomach fat.
- It helps bring the abdominal organs into place and enables fast recovery.
- It provides comfort by holding up the weight of the stomach, hence reliving the mother.
- It can tone your body’s shape and make you appear fit.
- After childbirth, most mothers tend to take rest for long periods. This can mess up the posture of the body. Wearing these belts can keep your bodyand its muscles in place, hence preventing bad posture.
- It also helps reduce swelling.
Things to Keep in Mind before Using Post Pregnancy Belts
Even though these belts seem very promising, there are a few things that you must consider before using them. Let’s have a look at what these things are:
- If you underwent a C-section, and have a wound/stitches that are yet to heal, you should consult your doctor before using a post pregnancy belt. The strain caused by the belt might interfere with the healing process.
- It has to be adjusted multiple times throughout the day which can sometimes seem like a hassle.
- Experts recommend that this belt must be used for limited hours in a day. Its overuse may cause discomfort.
- The belt needs to be adjusted to a comfortable pressure. Excessive pressure on the abdomen may cause internal bleeding due to the post pregnancy sensitivity of the body.
When and for How Long Should You Wear it?
The best time to wear a Post Pregnancy Belt is right after giving birth, ONLY after consulting your doctor first to avoid any complications. It should be worn for a minimum of 6 to 10 weeks for around 10 to 12 hours in a day, to receive full benefits.
Do They Actually Work?
The benefits of these belts are not scientifically proven. Its widespread use is a result of peoples’ experiences and testimonials. Mothers who have had hands-on experience using these belts claim that these belts can help in the recovery of the abdominal muscles. These belts put slight pressure on the abdomen to help shrink it back to its normal size, and provide comfort when mothers are at their weakest, which is exactly what they need.
Alternatives to Post Pregnancy Belts
If you are not comfortable wearing a belt all the time and are looking for alternatives, then corsets and wraps can do the job. However, these are not as beneficial as post pregnancy belts when it comes to providing support and toning the abdominal muscles.
Corsets:
These are extremely tight and should NEVER be worn on a healing wound. However, they do shape up your body temporarily. Before using a corset, you must consult your doctor.
Wraps:
These can be made from any soft materialand tied around the abdomen. These are extremely comfortable and soothing against the skin. However, compared to post pregnancy belts, their benefits are negligible.
What to Consider Before Getting a Post Pregnancy Belt?
Material:
The entire point of wearing a post pregnancy belt is to make the life of a mother easier. This can only be attained if the wrap around your belly is comfortable. It needs to provide support to your muscles as well as be comfortable while moving around. Therefore, you must choose a comfortable, and breathable material.
Convenience:
Make sure that your post pregnancy belt is convenient to use. It must feel comfortable to wear for 10 to 12 hours a day. To ensure convenience, you need to buy the right size for yourself. If you get a size bigger, it’ll keep coming off, whereas, a size smaller will put a strain on your belly.
Color:
Post pregnancy belts are available in several colors. If you prefer to wear the belt underneath your shirt, go for a light color. It will not show and you will be able to carry out your perfect look for the day!
Final Thoughts
The benefits of wearing a post pregnancy belt are quite convincing and seem to tick off all the right boxes for a postpartum mother. These belts claim to provide support, comfort,and strength to a healing mother. Moreover, they help tone your abdominal muscles, help you carry the weight of your postpartum belly, and are basically your companion through your recovery. However, if not used correctly, they can also cause discomfort, distress, and even serious clinical complications.
It is suggested that you consult your doctor before using a pregnancy belt. Also, make sure to choose the right belt; one that is comfortable, breathable, and the perfect size.
