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There's a lot of confusion in the postpartum belly binding world when it comes to clearly defining the difference between a belly wrap and a postpartum girdle. And here's the thing, there are many terms that may seem interchangeable but, actually, are not! But, why is it so important to clarify this? Well, did you ever hear a new mum say “I love my muffin top and the way my belly wrap is made of the stiffest, itchiest material?” We take it you haven't! Your postpartum recovery and overall wellbeing after your baby is born shouldn't pay the price of all the misinformation going around the web -check out Erica’s testimonial below! Bellefit Postpartum Girdles come in 8 different styles. Bellefit Corset on the left, Bellefit Bodysuit Corset on the right. Table Of Contents Do belly wraps really work? Postpartum belly wraps usually... Postpartum belly binding: Getting it right with a postpartum girdle How do postpartum girdles work? Postpartum girdles are designed with comfort in mind and feature... The difference between a belly wrap and a postpartum girdle Watch Erica share her experience with wearing a belly wrap vs a postpartum girdle Moving from a belly wrap to a postpartum girdle Choosing the perfect Bellefit postpartum girdle Do belly wraps really work? Belly wraps are mostly used to help women lose weight, achieve a slender look on the midsection of the body, and relieve back pain. However, these compression garments are not designed AT ALL to suit and support a new mum's needs. Imagine adding the annoying rolling of an unfitting belly wrap to your body after a C-section. Not only that's not fun, but it can also be very painful! So, as you'd guess by now, belly wraps don't really work as a safe and effective postpartum belly binding method! Belly wraps are more in line with waist trainers other than postpartum girdles. Unfortunately, many women are suffering in traditional postpartum wraps that just aren’t providing the support and comfort they are intended to offer for new mums. Belly bands can cause pain during post-pregnancy recovery Postpartum belly wraps usually... Are made of a fabric that shreds easily This means you may need more than one or two. Also, isn't it annoying to have threads hanging off your clothes? Have velcro closures that appear bulky under clothes As a new mom, you'll likely be doing your best to get back into your daily life soon -more so if you have more than one kid! It's not a great feeling to have a noticeable compression garment under your outfit saying 'hello world, here I am! Present an uncomfortable, incision-rubbing fit You can say the truth aloud: C-sections hurt! This is why it’s paramount to wear a medical-grade postpartum girdle instead of a 'take-it-or-leave-it' belly wrap. You can say the truth aloud: C-sections hurt! This is why it’s paramount to wear a medical-grade postpartum girdle instead of a 'take-it-or-leave-it' belly wrap. Postpartum belly binding: Getting it right with a postpartum girdle Feeling comfortable, supported, able to move freely, and even attend your physiological needs with ease -thank you, adjustable crotch opening!- may be amongst the most important things a postpartum girdle can do for you. Medical-grade postpartum girdles are designed to help new mums get back into shape after pregnancy Feeling more like yourself and gaining independence after your baby is born are traits that can go a long way.  @seniaslifee Hey mommies @Bellefit was kind enough to send over a postpartum girdle and im so excited to start using it! Link is in my bio if you like to check them out 😻 #postpartum #postpartumbody #postpartumgirdle #bellefit #momsoftiktok #momtok #mombod ♬ original sound - Seniaslifee ✨ How do postpartum girdles work? Medical-grade postpartum girdles are here to tackle all the main issues your body may go through after your pregnancy. From feeling your organs loose inside your tummy to having your abdominal muscles torn apart or wanting to get rid of those extra kgs, a postpartum girdle will assist you by compressing and containing in a smart and carefully designed way your body's midsection. Postpartum girdles are designed with comfort in mind and feature... Breathable, flexible material No more sweating bullets and feeling your skin can't breathe! Sturdy material that will last longer Medical-grade, high-quality fabrics. Say 'bye' to buying tons of wraps! Fit that is high enough to avoid muffin top and rolling up Wearing a compression garment that actually feels good and doesn't require constant adjustment -especially annoying if you are in a social situation- can totally improve your day-by-day recovery. Encourages correct posture Although bending and holding your bub without pain may now seem a task worthy of Mission Impossible, once the postpartum girdle starts working its science, you'll notice how your posture improves and your muscle pain diminishes. The difference between a belly wrap and a postpartum girdle At the end of the day, the main difference between a belly wrap and a postpartum girdle is that one is pretty much a piece of fabric you get to wrap around your stomach, whereas the other is a medically-designed compression garment that will become your ally -not a nuisance! Watch Erica share her experience with wearing a belly wrap vs a postpartum girdle Erica did her research while pregnant with her third child and found what she calls her “lifesaver” -the Bellefit postpartum girdle. The busy mother of three knew a C-section was in her birth plan, but even then, she couldn't afford slowing down her pace. After all, she has a high-schooler, a 2-year old and a 5-month old baby relying on her! "The Bellefit girdle, it really is a lifesaver,” Erica says. “I felt like I wasn’t wearing it, like it was holding me in, like, literally -to the point that I was able to go back to work sooner. I was able to do things around the house, I was able to take care of the 2-year-old, go on walks, all that good stuff.” https://youtu.be/qZh6LAFLEno Moving from a belly wrap to a postpartum girdle When Erica became pregnant in her 30s, she was naturally concerned about her pre-pregnancy hourglass figure. She knew she'd need some real good postpartum belly binding. Disappointed by the belly wrap she tried after her second pregnancy, "Unfortunately, it didn't do anything but make me feel uncomfortable," she says, and frustrated by its failed “guaranteed to work," she got hold of a Bellefit rep that helped her choose the perfect postpartum girdle. Erica showing her Pregnant Belly at around 39 weeks Choosing the perfect Bellefit postpartum girdle Bellefit's rep suggested Erica try out the corset, an adjustable product that is designed to provide varying levels of compression as new mums progress during childbirth recovery. Even though the corset's hook and eye closures are designed with a C-section in mind, these are also recommended for natural births as well. Erica's photo at the hospital showing her C-Section scar bandage Erica received extenders for her long torso and began wearing her postpartum girdle the day after her C-section. She immediately felt a difference. She was able to walk better and experienced a reduction in back pain. And not only that, Erica never thought she would even receive compliments after having a third child in her 30s! Erica feeling relieved experiencing the best postpartum belly binding method. At seven weeks postpartum, Erica was wearing the girdle mostly at night or when her back bothered her during the day. Erica credits the company’s excellent customer service support for helping her order the correct size and discussing the benefits of using a postpartum girdle, rather than a belly wrap. Erica's midsection after completing her childbirth recovery with the assistance of a Postpartum Girdle Erica is now five months postpartum and still wearing her postpartum girdle as a way to alleviate the pain of previous back injuries. “I really do feel like you definitely get your money’s worth,” she said. “I was able to do a ton of things after! Not only that, but I now have an awesome product that I can continue to wear. It helps to ease the back pain that I have from being in car wrecks. I’m a nurse and sometimes I lift heavy things and it definitely helps. It was a great investment.” Erica’s only recommendation about the Bellefit postpartum girdle? “Buy two because, within two weeks, I was ready to order a smaller size!”

We have seen it before in movies, read it in books, heard from other moms giving birth; it is not quick and easy. Labor is hard work and can be incredibly painful. There are a million things that can happen, and if you have given birth before, there might have been more complications than today. We have all heard of things that can happen during pregnancy and labor that seem incredibly scary. What if the baby is in the wrong position? What if I can’t take the pain? What if I have to give birth in the car cause I can’t get to the hospital fast enough? What if my water breaks at an event or when I’m out shopping? There are many fears and things to worry about, and childbirth isn’t a piece of cake. But it is astonishing what the female body can do and go through when having a baby. Your body is equipped with all the things it needs to deliver the baby safely and soundly, but it is understandable to be scared, especially if it is your first baby. What if I need a c-section? In some cases, for example, if the baby isn’t in the proper position or there might be any risk in delivering the baby vaginally, your doctor might advise you to have a c-section. This is basically getting the baby out through your abdomen. The surgery doesn’t take too long, but the healing process does. Good news: every 3rd woman in the United States of America gets a c-section, so there is no need to be scared of the surgery as many women have gone through it before. There are ways to speed up the healing process: by wearing a compression garment, resting, drinking enough water, doing light stretches, etc. With these strategies, you will be on your feet sooner than you think. It’s not the traditional way, but you will not feel any pain while having the surgery, and it can also be planned. There are women that choose to have a c-section because of precisely those factors. What if the pain is too much? Ah, yes. You might think about this often while you are pregnant. How bad is the pain going to be? Maybe you have heard horror stories online or from your friends. The good news is your body makes you remember the pain of childbirth after delivery as less severe. That’s an evolutionary trick to make you want to have another kid. See, our body is smart. But there are actual ways to reduce the pain while in labor. For example, with medication, an epidural will help you if you want it. An excellent way to prepare for the process is to watch videos, read about it and ask other women about it; you can always choose not to go through that much pain and ask for medication. The epidural needle is enormous! The epidural needle is indeed 4 inches long. But before it even reaches you, the area is numbed, and you won’t feel a lot when the needle is injected. There might be a little pressure, but that’s it. You won’t feel any pain, and it will be over sooner than you think. So there is no need to be scared of the needle. I have heard your vagina can tear? Yes, you read that right. It can happen. Half of the women have at least one little tear happen during labor. Giving birth to your first child and gaining weight might make it more likely for you to tear during labor. It happens naturally and most of the time doesn’t even need too much fixing after. You can do things to prevent the tearing by gently massaging the area between your vagina and anus starting a couple of weeks before labor. If you have heard of episiotomy before, it is a cut from your vagina to your anus, but it isn’t used anymore as doctors realized it is better to let it tear by itself. So don’t worry about that. Will I poop when I push? Many women worry about this before going into labor. What if I push and I poop? It’s a common fear, but an unnecessary one. Chances are, nurses and doctors that help you deliver your baby have done it a thousand times before, and every woman going into that delivery room has worried about the same thing. When you push, you have to use muscles that are also in your rectum, and it will most likely happen that with pushing, you will poop. But no need to go crazy; everyone in the room is used to it and will not be surprised. What if I can’t make it to the hospital in time? What if I have to give birth in the car or at home cause I can’t make it to the hospital in time? Here is something to consider: most childbirths have a duration of eight hours. So the chance of you being stuck in traffic for eight hours is slim. What if something goes wrong? It’s an absolutely understandable fear of unexpected things happening that could put you and the baby in danger. You can speak with your doctor about them; chances are your doctor has delivered many babies and knows about complications and what to expect. Most of the complications that could happen can be detected while you are pregnant with an ultrasound, etc. So if there would be some big complication that might have an effect on your baby, your doctors would inform you beforehand, and you could have a c-section if that’s safer. The best way is to talk to doctors and nurses. It Will Be Alright There are many fears going into labor, and you are not alone. Millions of women feel the same way you do. Remember to talk to your doctor or nurse about your fears as they are experienced—they can give you good advice. All in all, don’t worry too much! Your body can do great things.

Labor positions are as old as time itself. Many women do not feel comfortable with the traditional labor position and try out different ones to ease the pain and deliver the baby safely. You might have done your research already, reading books and watching videos on how the delivery will proceed. It might be overwhelming to think about all the things that you need to look out for, and the actual labor might make you feel nervous and stressed. How bad will the pain be? Will I need a c-section? How will I feel afterward? Having a baby is hard work; maybe that’s why they called it labor... In this article, I will tell you all about labor positions, which ones are recommended, and whether they could ease pain and make delivery easier on you. You don't need to stick with the traditional on-your-back labor position that you see on TV. It’s your labor, and you decide if you want a totally different position or switch during the delivery to another one, or even do three throughout the delivery. You can ask your midwife, nurse, or doctor about the various positions. Don’t worry; it's really common for moms to use different labor positions, especially if you don’t take any medication, as every woman has to wait to push until the cervix is fully dilated, which can be quick or take longer depending on your case. Different labor positions can also ease the wait. Why use different labor positions? Even though it is called labor, you still can be as comfortable as possible while giving birth, and that’s what labor positions are for - to provide you with more comfort and ease your pain, as well as open your pelvis and give the baby more room. Common labor positions to try that might ease the pain: There are many labor positions out there. I will give you a list of all the common positions and take out three of them which have the best result and are very common to help many women ease the pain. Walking This labor position works with gravity—and while in delivery, gravity can be your best friend. Your baby will move down the birth canal easier, and your pelvis might have an easier time opening up. You can’t give birth walking around, but it might be a good way to get things going beforehand. Squatting This beloved exercise will come in handy again in labor. It allows the baby to have more room and opens the pelvis. Hands and Knees Another great way to open up the pelvis and might take the pressure off your spine and ease back pain, as well as give the baby more oxygen. Sitting Down Gravity comes in handy again when you sit down. You get some rest, and the perineum can be relaxed, which will reduce tearing. Laying on Your Side You can lay on your side and place a pillow or ball between your legs. This will help the baby move into the correct position. It also makes it easier to relax and can be used if you have high blood pressure. Lunges It seems strange, but lunges can actually help rotate the baby and give it more room. Get someone to support you when making these movements. Certain Scenarios Might Require Different Positions If you have an epidural (the medication injected in your epidural around your spinal cord), you won’t be able to walk around too much. Lying on your side or sitting down might be an option for you. If your baby's heart rate is monitored, you can still try the positions lying on your side, sitting, or squatting. Can there be any complications while I try a labor position? There are cases where certain labor positions can change how your baby’s heart beats, but the midwife, nurse, or doctor will let you know if you have to change positions. The lying on your back position can be advised against because it can put pressure on your blood vessels. All in all, there can be complications in any position, but with your doctor or nurse there, they will monitor you and the baby, so there should be nothing to worry about. Switching from one labor position to another can be beneficial, though. The three best labor positions for a comfortable delivery So what are the three best labor positions for a mostly comfortable delivery? Obviously, that might be different for everyone, depending on your situation and body. Maybe you have had a child before, or this is your first; these are factors that can contribute to comfortable labor. Some doctors say positions—where you are in an upright position—may reduce the duration of your labor as gravity is doing some of the work. Examples of these positions can be: Walking Squatting Sitting These labor positions open your pelvis and give the baby more room as well as push the baby deeper into the birth canal. If you have back pain, it can help reduce that and even make contractions less painful. If you have high blood pressure or your baby needs constant heart monitoring, the doctor might not recommend it for you, and you can try out lying-down positions. Get Ready There may be a range of labor positions that can help you - ask your doctor or nurse what might be best for you and the baby. Generally speaking, upright positions and the help of gravity might speed up your labor a little more. These positions are for your comfort and should help you ease pain and deliver comfortably. Your body will tell you what to do, and you will feel when to switch positions or what will work best for you. Listen to your own intuition. Sometimes you don’t even need to switch between positions too much, and in some cases, it might feel better to do many and keep moving. You can also ask your partner to support you during movements like squatting, etc.—it will make movements easier.

A cesarean section (c-section) is the surgical delivery of a baby through your belly and uterus and is surprisingly common. One-third of women in the U.S have a c-section when delivering a baby. It can be planned or be by emergency if something goes wrong during labor. When do I need a c-section? There are many reasons why a c-section can be safer for your baby than a vaginal birth: Macrosomia Your baby may be too big to fit through the birth canal and can't move safely. You Have Had a C-Section Before Some women can have a vaginal birth after having a c-section, but in some cases, it is advised against. Infections If you have HIV or other infections, you could give it to your baby through vaginal delivery. In this case, it is safer to have a c-section. You Have More Than One Baby If you are giving birth to twins or triplets, a c-section might be safer. The Baby Is Upside-Down In some cases, the baby can be upside down, meaning the head is on top and the feet or butt is facing down. There are ways to turn your baby around, but in some cases, it is safer for your baby to be delivered via a c-section. There Are Complications While You Deliver Sometimes complications occur during labor. It can happen that the labor doesn’t move fast enough or stops entirely, and the doctor might change to a c-section. There are also cases where the baby doesn’t get enough oxygen. The medical personnel detects an irregular heartbeat or if your baby has a congenital disability such as a very large brain due to fluid build-ups and the baby needs to be delivered via c-section. Placenta There can be problems occurring with the placenta, responsible for your baby to have oxygen and food. It can cause bleeding during vaginal birth, which happens when the baby's placenta is right above your cervix, called placenta previa. Medical Conditions Diabetes or high blood pressure can make a vaginal birth risky; a c-section will help reduce the risks. Cost of a C-Section Not surprisingly, the cost of having a c-section in the U.S is very high but varies depending on what state you live in as well as what insurance policy you have. If you have no insurance at all, the costs can sky-rocket from $30,000 for a vaginal birth to $50,000 for a c-section. If you have insurance, the costs are still high and can run you around $20,000 if you are insured with Medicaid and $24,000 with any other insurance for the c-section. Be sure to check with your insurance provider as some may not cover a c-section due to the risk that it can have on yourself as well as your child. What Happens After a C-Section It usually takes 2-3 days to be released from the hospital after a c-section. You should get plenty of rest and take care of the wound. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to handle your wound in the following days after delivery: Generally, if your wound is stitched or glued together, you can take showers. Be aware not to scrub or use heavily chemical body wash. Choose a natural soap instead. Look out for signs of infection, fever, heavy pain, heavy bleeding, chest pain, difficulty breathing, redness, or lots of fluids running out of your wound. In that case, check with your doctor. You can expect vaginal bleeding right after surgery as well as pain and swelling. You can also have breast swelling, and as your hormones change, your hair and skin can change. Many women also see red or purple stretch marks on their bellies and breasts. Unfortunately, they won’t disappear entirely, but they will fade with time. Don’t lift anything too heavy in the first couple of days, and support your stomach by holding it while you sneeze, cough, or laugh as it can hurt otherwise. It’s okay if the pain is too overwhelming, and you can use pain relief such as Advil, ibuprofen, etc. Also, don’t forget to drink enough water and stay hydrated. You might also have to take mediation during the first few days after your surgery, but you can still breastfeed, and it won’t have a significant effect on your baby. There are ways to breastfeed your baby without putting too much weight on your belly, such as the side laying down position or the football hold. Focus on nourishing your body with good food. Vegetables make your breast milk have more flavor, and your child might be more likely to eat vegetables when growing up. Be aware that you might also feel tired and not have much energy due to all your body's stress. Give yourself time and care. If you keep feeling blue after a couple of days, you might have postpartum depression. Call a doctor or a therapist to help you cope. When you start to feel better, you can try returning to doing physical activities. Start with deep breaths, shoulder circles, and light stretches to stretch your belly. However, it’s generally advised to speak to a doctor first before returning to activities such as sports, driving, or lifting anything heavier than your child. Give your body time to recover, and don’t rush.

Preparing for a baby means preparing for a lot of change in your life. One of the many changes you may experience is a change in your wardrobe. Many women don’t think about what to wear after giving birth. This is because they are so focused on all that leads up to it. It’s important to be prepared for life postpartum as well as during your pregnancy. In this article, we will explore all the different types of clothing changes you will need to consider after giving birth. Your Body After Birth Whether this is your first child or you are expanding your family, your body is going to react differently with each pregnancy. There are, however, a few things you can expect after you have given birth. With both C-section and natural deliveries women can expect to bleed after their labor for a few days. This means you will need underwear and pads. Your body will also begin to produce milk. Even if you are not planning on breastfeeding you can expect to leak milk from your breasts. This means you will need a bra and some sort of cloth to catch the milk. In addition, your body will be in a state of healing. You just formed a baby and gave birth, there is going to be some pain and discomfort in your abdomen. Many women will want a set of comfortable clothing to get cozy in. For the first 6-10 weeks after you give birth your uterus will be shrinking back to its normal size. During this time frame compression over your uterus can help ease pain and allow you to heal faster. A mix of comfort and compression is the key to an easy postpartum recovery journey. Keeping this in mind can help you choose what to wear after giving birth. What to wear after giving birth (clothes) Part of your birth plan should include packing a hospital bag. You should fill your hospital bag with all of the things you will need for your new little one and for yourself. Included in this bag should be an outfit that you will wear home from the hospital. Choosing this outfit will help determine your comfort level after you have given birth. The main thing you need to consider when choosing these clothes is comfort. If you had a C-section, you will most likely want a pair of postpartum compression leggings that are made of breathable and soft fabric. Postpartum compression leggings, like those sold by Bellefit, are ideal to provide support and compression to your new incision. The waistband of these compression leggings should go over the incision to protect it from snagging on anything, but it should also be breathable so that moisture isn’t trapped in the incision area. Women who had a natural birth will most likely want something a little looser in the vaginal area. A pair of loose cotton pants, flowing culottes, or even pajama pants will be your best bet. A pair of postpartum leggings are also acceptable as long as they are made of breathable fabric that doesn’t create too much moisture in your vaginal area. For both C-section and natural birth mothers a loose top with breast access is a good option. Pajama tops with buttons down the front are particularly popular with many women. Maxi dresses are also a popular option but women who have C-section incisions may want a high-waisted undergarment to protect against any snagging material. What to wear after giving birth (under clothing) There are a variety of options available to women when it comes to postpartum undergarments. Each option is based on personal preference and every option is viable for women who have had a C-section or a natural delivery. Postpartum Underwear After labor and delivery, your uterus will begin to shed its lining. This causes you to bleed for multiple days and experience spotting for weeks. You will likely not want to ruin your nice underwear with all of the blood, so investing in some postpartum underwear is a great idea. This underwear should be comfortable, high waisted (particularly if you had a C-section), breathable, and full-coverage (to accommodate the large pads you will need to wear). Bellefit has a line of postpartum underwear that is perfect for you to wear after giving birth. Nursing Bra/Sleeping Bra After your delivery, your body releases hormones that cause your breasts to engorge and feel tender. Even if you are not planning on breastfeeding you will want to offer your breasts some support so that you can ease the discomfort you experience. Sleeping bras or nursing tank tops are a great option. They provide support, are comfortable, and will catch your leaking milk. If you are breastfeeding you will need to invest in a good nursing bra. The bra should be supportive and also have easy access for your baby. Bellefit has a sleeping/nursing bra that is perfect for anyone. Sleeping/nursing bras provide support, are soft and comfortable, and are easy to clip down when you need to get up for a midnight feeding. Belly Band/Abdominal Binder If you decide to have a baby at the hospital they will probably give you an abdominal binder after you have given birth. This medical garment offers compression to your stomach area and provides relief from abdominal pain. This abdominal binder is often only good for a day or two before it begins to give out at the edges. Today, more and more women are turning to belly bands or postpartum binders. They help ease postpartum pain. These garments offer support that provides relief from discomfort and makes it easier to get around. This can help your uterus shrink back to its normal state and prevent diastasis recti. There are so many of these garments available on the market that it can be hard to choose one that is best suited to your needs. Bellefit offers a variety of sizes and styles that are suitable for anyone--including those who have had a C-section or natural birth. What to wear after giving birth--takeaways Depending on if you had a C-section or a natural birth your clothing options will likely be different. C-section mothers will probably want to have a pair of compression leggings and a loose top to wear. While natural birth mothers might be more comfortable with a pair of loose pants and a loose top. No matter what type of delivery you had in the end what you wear after giving birth is all up to what you would feel the most comfortable in.

Recovering from childbirth is a long and painful journey - particularly if you are recovering from a cesarean section. In this article we will discuss what to expect with your C-section recovery, the struggles you may experience along the way, and some tips for healing faster. What is a C-section? A C-section, also known as a cesarean section, is a type of abdominal surgery designed to extract the baby from the uterus. According to a study by the Center for Disease Control, approximately 30% of pregnant women end up having a cesarean section. A doctor will perform a C-section for a number of reasons. They can be scheduled, or happen in an emergency - depending on the circumstances. In addition, during a cesarean section the surgeon will make an incision on the mother’s abdomen and open up the uterus. They will then take the baby out of the uterus and then close everything back up. Recovery after a major abdominal surgery, such as a C-section, can be a painful and long process. Many women struggle with their C-section recovery on top of their new duties as a mother. C-Section Recovery Struggles - What to Expect What can you expect with your C-section recovery process? After giving birth a mother will experience a wide variety of struggles. Some of these struggles include: adjusting to parenthood, learning to breastfeed, and taking care of yourself. These are not unique to a mother who went through a cesarean section, however there are some struggles unique to women who had a C-section. First Couple of Days If you have a C-section you will likely be kept in the hospital for 2-4 days for observation. Doctors will observe you and make sure you know how to properly care for your incision. In addition to this you will experience vaginal bleeding and cramps. These occur as the uterus sheds its lining and shrinks back to its original size. On top of this, your doctor will want to monitor you to watch for infection at the incision site and signs of blood clots in the leg. First Few Weeks In the first few weeks of your C-section recovery struggles you will need to monitor your incision and check it for infection. Infection is most likely to occur in the first few weeks after a C-section delivery. Similarly, you will need to monitor your blood loss. It is possible to hemorrhage in the first few weeks. As your uterus shrinks and your incision heals you will probably experience some pain. Talk to your doctor about what pain management options are available to you and if you have any concerns bring them up at your check-ups. You should not be driving, exercising, performing labor-intensive tasks for the first 6 weeks of your recovery. Long Term Recovery Recovering fully from a cesarean section can take years. You may experience some sensitivity or pain at the incision site for a while after your surgery. In addition, your C-section scar may not heal for a while after your surgery and can leave you feeling frustrated and insecure. You may even struggle with urinary incontinence due to your weakened pelvic muscles. Make sure you discuss any concerns with a physician. C-Section Recovery Struggles There are many struggles for a new mom, but there are some unique struggles women who gave birth via C-section may experience. These can include: Difficulty getting out of bed. In the hospital there are beds that raise and lower to help you maneuver out of bed easier - at home you may not have this luxury. It can be difficult to get out of bed, and this can cause problems. Particularly as you run back and forth to your newborn to breastfeed them at night. The best way to overcome this struggle is by rolling onto your side, swinging your legs over to the floor and then pushing yourself up into a sitting position. This prevents you from using your healing abdominal muscles. Pain Relief. Just like with any surgery you skin, your tissue, and your muscle all have to heal from the trauma they endured. Your incision site can be sensitive and bruised for a few weeks so make sure you have some pain relief medication. If you are breastfeeding, make sure you talk to your physician first as a small amount of the medication can make it into the baby’s breastmilk. C-section Scarring. Your body will naturally heal and your scar should be mostly healed by six weeks postpartum, but that doesn’t mean it is fully healed. Some women lose feeling in the area for months after their surgery. Similarly, it will take a while for your scar to fade. There are multiple C-section scar healing techniques designed to reduce your scarring. You can check those out here. Blood Clot Prevention. Women who went through a cesarean section are at an increased risk of blood clots. Oftentimes by the time you leave the hospital you shouldn’t have to worry about clotting, but if you are at an increased risk your doctor may send you home with blood thinning medication. When to Contact a Doctor You will have to check your C-section incision for infection every day. If you experience any of these symptoms you should seek medical attention. The incision is red, swollen or leaking discharge You have a fever You have heavy bleeding Your pain gets worse C-Section Recovery Tips - For a Faster Recovery Your body will not be physically fully healed for about 6 weeks after a C-section. After the six weeks it can be tempting to jump right back into your pre-pregnancy routine, but this is usually not wise. Your body is still recovering. You may feel physically fine, but your body may still be healing from the entire pregnancy and labor experience. In order to get back to your pre-pregnancy routine quicker, we have a little list of C-section recovery tips. Seek Help for Long-Term Problems During your C-section recovery struggles you may discover minor inconveniences. Therefore, you can later turn into long-term problems. This can include long term pain, muscle weakness, incontinence, and even depression. Don’t suffer alone and don’t put up with it. There are often underlying causes that can affect you even after you have healed. Seek help for those problems as soon as you can. Take Regular Walks You are not recommended to participate in intense aerobic exercise and strength training immediately after giving birth, however you should still get your body moving as much as possible. Walking helps to prevent blood clots. It is great for your mental health, and it can get you out and about with friends. Use a Postpartum Girdle A postpartum girdle is a great solution to many of your C-section recovery struggles. Postpartum girdles - designed to stabilize your core and provide medical-grade compression that promotes healing. Bellefit designed postpartum garments for women who have experienced a cesarean section. Postpartum girdles ensure you don’t get your stitches caught on any fabric, help prevent diastasis recti, and help you feel less pain. It’s easy to see why so many of our customers love this product. We hope this has been an informative and helpful article and that you have everything you need for a health C-section recovery.

If you have read up on labor and delivery, you may have come across the term “breech baby”. What is a breech baby? It is when the baby is positioned with its feet down near the cervix instead of the head. This can occur throughout the entire pregnancy, but as you move closer to your delivery date this can pose problems. In this article we want to give you all the information you need to know in order to be prepared. What is a Breech Baby? As your baby grows, they will constantly be moving around in your uterus. And most of the time this isn’t a problem, we all need to adjust ourselves and get comfortable. But as you move closer to your due date, their moving around can cause them to get into some interesting positions. This can be a cause for concern in some cases, particularly when your baby’s head is not near the birthing canal. Between the 32nd and 37th weeks of your pregnancy your baby should be moving into a position to prepare for birth. Their head should move towards the birthing canal, and their feet should be in the opposite direction towards the top of your uterus. If a baby doesn’t properly move into place, they can be born feet-first. And this can cause harm to the baby. Possible Complications with a Breech Baby Due to the nature of labor, the best position for a baby to be in for vaginal birth is with the head towards the cervix. The head is the baby’s largest part of their body, and is the most difficult to get out of the birthing canal. If the feet come out first, it becomes more difficult for the baby’s head to come out, because the birthing canal has not opened up wide enough. Another potential problem occurs when the umbilical cord prolapses. This means that the umbilical cord is being squeezed, cutting off the baby’s oxygen and blood supply. This can cause birth defects. Babies are more likely to be breech if: They are premature There is more than one baby (twins, etc.) There is an abnormal level of amniotic fluid The mother’s uterus is shaped abnormally While these complications are serious, there are many ways you can try to move them into the correct position. Can you change a Breech Baby position? As you attend your check-ups and doctors appointments, your doctor will be checking to make sure your baby isn’t breeched. In the early stages of your pregnancy, a breech baby is not a problem. The closer you come to your due date the more likely your doctor is to suggest measures to change the baby’s position. Non-Medical methods to change position Acupuncture – This form of Chinese medicine involves placing tiny needles at several pressure points on the body. When stimulated this can relax the uterus, causing the baby to shift position. Chiropractic Care – A chiropractor adjusts your posture and alignment to ensure that your hips and pelvis are aligned. This will relieve pressure off of the uterus, which can promote the baby to turn. Child’s Pose – Another technique uses gravity as a way to persuade the baby to turn. One option is to rest in the yoga pose known as child’s pose for 10-15 minutes a day. Pelvic tilt – Another option that uses gravity is known as a pelvic tilt. The mother rests on her back with her knees up and her feet on the ground. Then she lifts her hips up off the ground into a bridge position. The mother is supposed to maintain this pose for 15-20 minutes. Some women find this pose difficult to maintain and use an ironing board and a couch for some extra stability. They lean the ironing board against the couch and lie on it with their feet on the couch. Music – Some babies are very fond of music. If you have noticed your baby move in the past when you play music, this might be a good option for you. Play music in the area when you want their head, and some babies will move their head to hear the music better. Temperature – Similarly, some babies are very sensitive to temperature. By placing a warm cloth at the bottom of your stomach and a cold cloth at the top, your baby may be enticed to move toward the warmth. Medical methods to change position If these non-medical methods are not working for you, your doctor may suggest the use of a procedure known as External Cephalic Version (ECV). An ECV is typically had at around 37 weeks of pregnancy. It is a non-invasive procedure where the physician will apply pressure to your stomach in various areas to push the baby into the proper position. Some doctors choose to use an ultrasound also to make sure they can see the baby move into the correct position, while also monitoring their heart rate. This procedure is non-invasive, but it can be painful. Some doctors choose to administer some medication before the procedure to relax your muscles and reduce discomfort. C-Section for Breech Baby Sometimes, no matter what you or your doctor do, your baby will not move out of the breech position. In these cases most physicians will recommend a c-section delivery. While some breech babies are ok to be delivered through a vaginal birth, a c-section is the safer option. A clinical study conducted and published in Lancet found that a “Planned caesarean section is better than planned vaginal birth for the term fetus in the breech presentation.” C-Section Recovery If this happens to be the case, the baby will be safely delivered, but your recovery time may be much longer. A c-section involves a large incision across your abdomen that takes a while to heal. Movement becomes difficult and the stress of caring for your newborn is only added on top of that. Thankfully, Bellefit has developed a line of postpartum girdles that help you heal faster and help you feel more confident. These postpartum girdles were designed with all women in mind. They come in many different sizes, shades, and types. Buy one online today and find out how so many women have healed faster and with less pain.

Historically, women who become pregnant over the age of 35 were considered to have a “geriatric pregnancy.” This term has become outdated in recent years, due to the increase in education, technology, and pregnancy knowledge. Still, women are often concerned when it comes to pregnancy as you age. In this article, we want to break down some misconceptions and ease your worries a little about “geriatric pregnancies.” What is a Geriatric Pregnancy? According to Healthline, “In the medical world, a geriatric pregnancy is one that occurs anytime a woman is over the age of 35.” This phrase has fallen out of popularity among medical professionals, and a new one has taken its place. Today, the term “geriatric pregnancy” has become “advanced maternal age.” Studies have demonstrated that more women than ever before are having their first child between the ages of 35 and 39. And according to a study by the NCHS, first-time pregnancies in women over 40 have actually doubled in the last 40 years. This shift towards later pregnancies is likely due to the shift in social beliefs within the last 40 years. In recent years it has become more socially acceptable to wait to have children until you feel you are financially stable. In addition, many women choose to focus on their careers and wait to have children. The recent increase in technological abilities and knowledge of baby development has also helped women have safe and healthy pregnancies in their later years. Why is it considered a geriatric pregnancy? Fun fact about fertility, you are born with your entire lifetime supply of eggs. According to the Rogel Cancer Center, “Females are not capable of making new eggs, and in fact, there is a continuous decline in the total number of eggs each month.” It is because of this reason that women over the age of 35 have increased difficulty conceiving. According to a study published in Hum Reprod, women between the ages of 19-26 are at their highest fertility levels. Between the ages of 27 and 34 the likelihood of conceiving drops to 40%. Between the ages of 35-39 it drops to 30%. And by the time you reach 40-45 your fertility decreases by up to 95%. Don’t worry though, many healthcare professionals still believe that a healthy and safe pregnancy is possible. According to an article in Parents, “A woman who maintains a healthy weight, takes a prenatal vitamin with folic acid, manages medical conditions, doesn’t smoke, and keeps vaccinations up to date, has a better chance of conceiving a healthy baby, and having a healthy pregnancy.” Risks with a Geriatric Pregnancy As with any pregnancy, there are risks involved with having a child after age 35. This includes an increased risk of: Pre-eclampsia Gestational diabetes Cesearean Section Labor Complications Loss of Pregnancy Premature birth Low birth weight chromosomal defects in the baby (particularly Down Syndrome) Having multiples (twins) How to Combat the Risks In order to ensure you have a safe and healthy pregnancy it is essential that you speak with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to evaluate your individual condition and help you form a plan for a safe pregnancy. In general there are a few lifestyle changes that can help ensure you have a healthy pregnancy – no matter your age. Preconception/Fertility Appointment: This appointment helps you and your doctor evaluate and understand the risks involved in your pregnancy. In addition, you can formulate a plan to increase your risks of pregnancy, and other options in case those don’t work. Prenatal Care: Be sure to go to any and all doctor’s appointments that are scheduled. These frequent check-ups can help to catch any problems that might occur throughout your pregnancy. In addition, try to regularly take a prenatal vitamin to make sure your baby is getting the proper nutrition it needs. Eat Healthy: A well-rounded diet is essential during pregnancy. This ensures that you and your baby are getting all the necessary nutrients you need. Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps your body stay healthy and improves your overall health. No Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drugs: Avoid all risky substances during your pregnancy. And talk to your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. Recovering from an Advanced Maternal Age Pregnancy Postpartum recovery can be a long and hard journey for any woman. Due to many of the increased risk factors associated with a geriatric pregnancy, recovery can be even more difficult. Fully recovering from pregnancy and childbirth can take months, and this is on top of caring for a newborn. It can be frustrating to feel as though you are not recovering as fast as you want, but give your body a chance to rest. It just spent 40 weeks creating a new life, it will take more than a few days to recover. Even if all you can do is sleep, eat, and take care of your baby that is enough. Later when you begin to feel better it can be tempting to try and workout and shed the baby weight. Be patient. You may feel prepared, but sometimes it is not the best decision to jump right back in. Focus on eating healthy and drinking lots of water. Diet is just as important as exercise, and diet won’t accidentally hurt you in the process. For a faster recovery after a geriatric pregnancy, consider using a postpartum girdle. They are designed to support your abdomen after giving birth so that you can get back to feeling and looking your best. Bellefit postpartum girdles are perfect for any mom who wants to speed up her recovery time. For whatever pregnancy, labor, or postpartum journey you are on, Bellefit’s postpartum girdles are here to support you.

Almost every mother has some type of souvenir from their pregnancy; whether that be stretch marks, loose skin, or in some cases c-section scarring. Cesarean sections are more common than you may think, nearly one third of pregnant women will have to get a c-section. Here’s a little guide on what to expect after having a c-section, and how to minimize scars. What is a C-Section? A cesarean section is a type of surgery that is performed on pregnant women. The surgeon will create a small 4-6 inch incision and then reach into your stomach to remove the baby. Types of Incisions There are typically two types of incisions that a surgeon may use to open up your uterus. A vertical incision and a horizontal incision. Vertical Incision - Usually used in an emergency c-section delivery. This incision runs from the belly button area to the top of the pubic bone. Typically these incisions are more painful and more noticeable. Horizontal Incision - Also known as the bikini line incision, runs from one side of your abdomen to the other. It is usually around the top of the pubic bone and is generally considered less painful and less noticeable. How they are Closed There are two incisions the surgeon has to close, the one in your uterus and the one in your skin/muscle. The incision in your uterus is always closed with dissolvable stitches, but the one in your skin can be closed in a few different ways. Just like in all surgeries your surgeon may choose from a couple different options when closing the incision. There are usually three different methods for your doctor to choose from. Staples - considered the fastest way to close an incision and the easiest. The staples will need to be taken out by the doctor about a week after the surgery. Stiches - takes a longer time to close the incision, usually about 30 minutes, but is widely considered to be the least likely to cause complications. They also will have to be taken out by the doctor about a week after the surgery. Glue - surgical glue is applied to the skin and brings the two sections of skin together. It dissolves by itself and does not wash away. Some believe that this method leads to the least visible scar. If you have a specific preference of how you would like the wound to be closed, please speak with your doctor before your surgery. Sometimes you may not have an option, but it never hurts to ask. How to Heal to Reduce C-Section Scarring The most effective way to reduce scarring is by making sure your incision heals properly. The best way to heal your incision effectively is to follow your doctor’s instructions. But in case you need some help, we put together a little guide. Cleaning Make sure you are cleaning the incision daily. You do not have to scrub or put soap directly onto the area, just letting soapy water run over the incision should do the job. Apply Ointment You can also apply some light antibiotic or a thin coat of petroleum jelly, but some women may not need ointment. Talk to your doctor for your specific regimen. Air it Out Make sure you are letting your incision breathe. You don’t need to walk around with it hanging out all day, but be sure to wear loose clothing and allow air flow to the area. Move Around You don’t want to be performing rigorous exercise or stretching in any way, but make sure you are moving around. Keeping your blood pumping and moving in the affected area helps to stimulate healing. To help you move around without fear of stretching your incision, try wearing an abdominal binder. An abdominal binder holds the area together and makes it so that you aren’t able to do too much activity. So go ahead and take a walk, but make sure you talk to your doctor for when you can resume activity as normal. Keep Out of the Sun During the main healing period (first six weeks) you will want to avoid having any sort of sun exposure on your incision. If you are unable to avoid it for some reason wear an SPF so you reduce the amount of UV exposure. Reduce C-Section Scarring (Non-Invasive) If you are really worried about the appearance of your scars there are ways to reduce them. There are two ways that you can reduce your scars with non-invasive procedures and with invasive procedures. You will want to try all non-invasive ways before you try any of the invasive options. Time No matter what type of scar it is, the best way to reduce the appearance is time. Yes, it sucks, but you really won’t know how well it heals until it has been a while. C-section scar in particular can take a while. And any sort of discoloration or raised areas will most likely take a year to completely disappear and heal. Silicone Treatments If you really want to be proactive about treating your scars, you can try using silicone treatments such as silicone gel or silicone sheets. According to one study published in the Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery “Topical silicon gel is safe and effective treatment for hypertrophic and keloidal scars.” Check with your doctor to see if this could be an effective treatment for you. Scar Massage According to one article in Parents, a scar massage is an effective way to help your scar heal. “Beginning four to six weeks post-surgery (get your doctor's clearance first), massage the scar, working it with a rubbing motion—first side to side, then up and down; then diagonal. ‘You can also lift and roll the scar between your thumb and forefinger,’ says. Doing this two to three times a day for five to 10 minutes at a time can keep the scar pliable, soft, and cosmetically appealing.” Problem Scarring Most people do not have any problems with their incisions healing properly. However, there are a couple different types of scarring that are incredibly difficult to heal on your own. These types of scars are keloid and hypertrophic scars. Both of these types of scars occur when the body goes into an “overdrive” healing mode and heals skin. Keloid Scarring - is characterized by Everyday Health as a “thick, irregular scar that rises above the skin level and extends beyond the original wound boundaries.” Hypertrophic Scarring - is characterized in a Clinics study as “visible and elevated scars that do not spread into surrounding tissues and that often regress spontaneously.” The main difference between the two is that hypertrophic scarring will not extend outside of the incision area while keloid scarring will. Both keloids and hypertrophic scarring typically have to be reduced using more invasive procedures. Reduce C-Section Scarring (Semi-Invasive/Invasive) If you have run out of no-invasive options or you are dealing with problem scarring you may want to speak with your doctor about invasive procedure options. Laser Therapy Laser therapy treats discoloration and abnormal texture. The laser promotes healing and can help reduce the appearance of scars. According to an article on What to Expect, “You can begin once any stitches are removed from your C-section (and your doctor clears you) — and you’ll likely have a better outcome if you get laser therapy sooner rather than later.” Steroid Injections Another option to reduce your scars and promote healing is with steroid injections. The injections will reduce inflammation allowing your scar to flatten and become less painful. They are typically required monthly until the problem has subsided. Surgery - Scar Revision If your scars are significant and not decreasing you may want to talk to your doctor about scar revision surgery. As described by a Parents article, a scar-revision surgery “takes place under local anesthetic or sedation, involves opening the scar (but not the underlying muscle) and re-closing it.” No matter what type of scar reducing techniques you want to use, talk to your doctor to make sure it is the right choice for you. Takeaways on C-Section Scarring The best way to make sure you don’t form a scar is by following your doctor's healing instructions. If you are looking for more proactive ways to reduce scarring, there are a variety of options available to you. One way you can reduce c-section scarring is by limiting your stretching and protecting your scar while it is healing. A great way to do this is by using a postpartum girdle. We make our Bellefit postpartum girdles specifically with c-section incisions in mind. The light breathable fabric allows air flow, which is essential in the healing process. The light compression reduces the amount of pain in the incision area. The structure supports your abdomen and helps you heal faster. And finally, our postpartum girdles make sure to hold you in place so you can’t stretch your scars by accident. We hope that you have found some helpful tips to reduce your c-section scarring. Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2918339/ https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/cesarean/c-section-scar-care/ https://www.everydayhealth.com/keloids/guide/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4129552/ https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/c-section-scars#closed https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/cesarean/c-section-scar-care/

This is your brief guide to hormones after pregnancy. Refer to it often for answers and advice.

Learning more about the procedure may make it feel less daunting, so you're better prepared for your delivery date. Moreover, it also gives you the opportunity to ask your doctor the right questions to understand what you can do to support your postpartum recovery.

Understanding the Benefits and Risks Vaginal births following C-Sections or VBACs are much more common than many people realize. Mothers who didn’t get to deliver their first or second children naturally may opt to do so for many reasons. They want to know what it feels like to have the baby travel down the birth canal which is an experience like no other a mother has. Table Of Contents Understanding the Benefits and Risks Vertical or T-Shaped C-Section Scars Indicate That Vaginal Birth is Not for You Uterine Rupture Instant Labor Makes Delivering Vaginally Easier Quick Birth Dystocia-Related C-Sections Prompt Doctors to Discourage Vaginal Delivery Obstructed Labor Your Weight Determines Whether a VBAC is Ideal The More the Weight the Higher the Risk Knowing Whether or Not a VBAC is Right for You Talk to Your Doctor Recovery from a VBAC Speed Up Your Recovery! Having a good idea of what is VBAC and its process prior to electing to give birth vaginally is important. It allows women to make informed decisions concerning their baby’s delivery. That’s why we wanted to take a moment to list the pros and cons of a VBAC birth. Vertical or T-Shaped C-Section Scars Indicate That Vaginal Birth is Not for You Vertical scars from a previous C-section could lead to uterine rupture during a VBAC. Uterine Rupture Uterine rupture is more likely to occur in women with these types of scars. Horizontal scars above the bikini line indicate a higher level of safety for a vaginal birth after c section. If you’re not sure what type of scar you have, look closely in a mirror or ask your physician to describe it to you. Instant Labor Makes Delivering Vaginally Easier Follow natural labor-inducing tips to ensure a successful VBAC delivery. Quick Birth Women with uterine scars do not usually get induced. So, if you’re able to go into labor without the assistance of your doctor, you’ll have a better chance of going through a VBAC delivery without complications. Following natural labor-inducing tips helps jumpstart the process and increase the likelihood of you delivering vaginally if that is what you desire to do. Dystocia-Related C-Sections Prompt Doctors to Discourage Vaginal Delivery Your chances of a having a successful VBAC will significantly decrease if you've had a dystocia-related c-section before. Obstructed Labor Your body may be slow at delivering a child. Rather than experience the issue that sparked your original C-Section by trying to give birth to the baby naturally, you’ll likely end up in surgery, having your next baby removed by Caesarean. That way, the risk factors lessen significantly. Your Weight Determines Whether a VBAC is Ideal Loose weight to boost your chances of having a successful VBAC. The More the Weight the Higher the Risk If you have gained a lot of weight during your pregnancy, your chances of having a VBAC labor decrease significantly. You’ll need to note that a gain of 40 pounds or more causes the success rate to lower by 40 percent. If you can’t get a handle on your weight prior to your delivery date, you probably won’t deliver the baby vaginally because of the VBAC risks that could occur. Knowing Whether or Not a VBAC is Right for You Your doctor will help you decide what's best for you and your baby. Talk to Your Doctor Giving birth vaginally after having a C-Section is something that many women do. That’s why it’s important to know the risks and advantages of VBAC prior to attempting to have your child naturally. Discussing your options with your primary care physician is advisable because they possess the medical knowledge and intimate details about your health to help you determine if a VBAC birth is, indeed, right for you. Recovery from a VBAC Bellefit Postpartum Girdles & Corsets – Medical-Grade, FDA-Registered, Recommended Since 2008. Available in 8 Styles & in Plus Sizes. Speed Up Your Recovery! Every labor story has a recovery story as well, make sure yours is as smooth and painless as possible by investing in Bellefit postpartum girdle. These girdles help with swelling, back pain, and through abdomen compression, it alleviates fluid retention and eases discomfort. Whether you are recovering from a vaginal birth, a C-Section, or a VBAC a postpartum girdle is a great option to speed up you recovery and get back to feeling your confident and beautiful self. See for yourself what a corset, girdle or thong can do for you following a VBAC. As always, if you have any questions concerning our products, don’t be afraid to ask. It is our pleasure to assist you in every way that we can. Have you delivered a baby naturally after a C-Section? What was the experience like?