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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.

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.

Women often discuss the pros and cons of an epidural. Labor can be painful, long, and difficult and pain relief is often necessary at some point during labor. There are a wide variety of pain relief options, but one of the most popular and most effective is an epidural. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of an epidural and other pain management options available to you. What is an Epidural? An epidural is a type of anesthesia used for pain relief medication during labor and delivery. This medication injects into the lower spine and prevents your nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. As a result, you have decreased feeling in the bottom half of your body. Contrary to popular belief, an epidural is not supposed to make you completely numb in the bottom half of your body. It relieves the intense pain, but still maintains your ability to feel pressure and movements. This allows you to remain awake and alert throughout your labor so that you can push when the time comes. Types of Epidurals and How They Work There are three types of epidurals. The first is an epidural. This is the most common type for women in labor. A catheter inserts into the bottom part of your spine in an area known as the epidural space. This catheter administers the local anesthetic throughout your labor. The second is the spinal injection. These epidurals are fast-acting and quickly wear off. The injection goes into the epidural space, but unlike the epidural, it does not continue to administer the anesthetic. The spinal injection numbs your lower body for about two hours. Most times this is not used during labor unless they know the entire labor and delivery will take less than two hours. The last type of epidural is a Combined spinal-epidural (CSE). This type of epidural uses both of the above types. A doctor administers a spinal injection to decrease your pain quickly, and then they insert a catheter. The catheter administers the anesthetic throughout your labor. A CSE often uses a lower dose of the anesthetic so that you have a little bit more feeling in the lower half of your body. This allows you to be more aware of your pain and gives you more movement in your lower body. The type of epidural you receive during your labor will differ based on what your doctor and anesthesiologist recommend/use. If you think you may want an epidural during your labor talk to your doctor beforehand so he understands what your preferences are and you can discuss the pros and cons of an epidural. Pros of an Epidural As you are setting up your birth plan one of the steps will be to determine your preferred pain-relief method. An epidural is one of the options that is available to you. Some women, particularly those who want an all-natural birth, may choose to forgo an epidural in favor of breathing methods for pain relief. In order to make an informed decision it is important you understand the pros and cons of an epidural. Epidurals offer pain relief, increased speed of labor, immediate emergency c-section, and the ability to remain awake during labor. Pain Relief Labor is painful. And for some women, this pain can be too much to bear. An epidural offers the pain relief that is needed to continue with labor. It is a safe and effective method for the much-needed relief you may need from your contractions. Increased Speed of Labor This is not a guarantee. Stress hormones slow labor, so you can inadvertently slow your labor when stressed. This hormone can prolong your labor. Once you receive some relief from your pain, your body will begin to calm down and stop producing the stress hormone. This can cause your labor to begin to progress again. Immediate Emergency C-Section In the case of an emergency C-section, you will be able to remain awake and alert throughout it. During the C-section, you will be put to sleep if you did not have an epidural. In addition, you may not be able to see your baby immediately after giving birth. With an epidural, your lower body is numb and your doctor can perform any necessary surgery without putting you to sleep beforehand. Remain Alert During Labor Whether you are giving birth via vaginal delivery or C-section an epidural allows you to be alert and present during your delivery. The pain does not overtake your thoughts, and you can enjoy your baby as soon as they are born. Cons of an Epidural As with any medical procedure, an epidural does come with some risks. It is up to you to decide if the pros outweigh the cons of an epidural. The cons of an epidural include decreased movement, headaches, urinary catheter, lowered blood pressure, and infection. Decreased Movement: Due to the nature of an epidural any movement of the lower body will be limited. While you will still have some sensation in your legs and lower body you will not be able to get up and walk around after you receive an epidural. Headaches: Although rare, some women report getting severe headaches after insertion of an epidural. Urinary Catheter: Because your lower body is numb you will not have control over your bladder. A urinary catheter will collect your urine due to this decreased control. The urinary catheter is removed, once your labor is complete, and your epidural has worn off. After it is removed you may still feel stinging and soreness. Lowered Blood Pressure: For some women who are prone to hypertension this may actually be a pro, as an epidural can decrease your blood pressure. For some women, this is a problem as their blood pressure can drop too low and doctors will have to help increase it again. Infection: In very rare cases the catheter or needle, used for the epidural, causes infection. This is if they are not properly sterilized. There are other mild side effects that can occur from an epidural including itchiness, drowsiness, breathing problems, and muscle weakness. If you experience any of these side effects alert your physician right away so they can remedy the problem. Other Pain Management Options For some women, the pros are not enough to overcome the cons of an epidural. In these cases, there are other pain management options available to them. This includes opioids, pudendal block, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and other natural remedies. If you are attempting to have an all-natural birth with no medical intervention these natural remedies may work for you. Natural remedies include: applying heat or cold to the lower back Massaging the lower back taking warm baths or showers finding comfortable positions, such as crouching, standing, or walking using a labor ball Long Term Side Effects Thankfully after labor is complete and the epidural has worn off there are rarely any long term side effects. In some cases, the epidural can cause permanent nerve damage but these are very rare. In general, you may continue to feel numb after delivery for a few hours. Overall you should be back to normal once the epidural wears off. Unlike other medical pain management options, an epidural will not have any effects on the baby during or after labor. Thankfully after it is all said and done, you will have a baby to enjoy and a long journey ahead of you. Make sure you take care of yourself after labor so you can recover and enjoy all these new moments. Bellefit has everything you need to stay healthy and happy after your delivery. Check out our postpartum garments. We have nursing bras, compression leggings, and postpartum underwear so you can recover comfortably and quickly. We hope this has been an informative article that has helped you reach a decision on your pain relief options.

Now that you’ve just spent the last nine months pregnant, you’re probably wondering what will happen to your body within the first twenty-four hours after delivering. How will your post baby body look?

Bringing home a new baby is an unforgettable experience — which is why our mission at Bellefit is to support women through their recovery, so they can cherish this time. Our postpartum girdles are designed to provide women abdominal support and pain relief with the broadest selection of sleek, medical-grade postpartum shape wear. C-section deliveries require major abdominal surgery. As a result, the recovery from c-sections will be very different from a vaginal birth experience. One way to speed your healing and added comfort is to wear a postpartum girdle or corset. We want to share the experiences of real c-section mommies who loved wearing their Bellefit girdles as they transition back into their pre-baby clothes. We'll also cover some common questions about wearing a Bellefit girdle after a c-section, and discuss the unique features of c-section-friendly compression garments, so you can choose the best girdle that suits your needs. Table Of Contents How Soon Can I Start Wearing A Girdle After Having A C-Section Delivery? How Does A Girdle Help With C-Section Recovery? Provides Abdominal and Back Support Decreases Pain With Medical-Grade Compression Allows For Deep Breathing To Reduce Stress Kim's C-Section Recovery With Bellefit Chelsea Experienced Pain Relief With Her Postpartum Girdle First Time Mom, Malva Recovers with Abdominal Binder After C-Section Bellefit Results Bellefit Makes You Feel Stronger Bellefit Makes You Feel Confident The Best Bellefit Girdles For C-Section Recovery How Soon Can I Start Wearing A Girdle After Having A C-Section Delivery? You can wear your postpartum girdle hours after giving birth. In fact, many doctors and nurses recommend it for c-section recovery. For the best results, you should wear your girdle day and night in the first few weeks of healing. You'll be able to adjust and tighten your girdle as your body changes in the months following childbirth. How Does A Girdle Help With C-Section Recovery? Provides Abdominal and Back Support The first few days with your new baby is an extraordinary experience, and it's the best time to begin bonding. Your abdominal wall is a lot weaker now after having surgery, so wearing a girdle around your midsection will give you support to your lower back and core muscles, allowing you to move around more comfortably and hold your baby. As you recover in the hospital for the next couple of days, nurses will encourage you to move around and increase circulation in the legs. The trouble is, the foundation of all movements begins at the abdominal muscles, and it's now at its weakest. A high-quality postpartum binder will help you feel secure and supported through your movements. Decreases Pain With Medical-Grade Compression Especially after the first 24 hours after c-section labor, you should support your wound with pressure. A compression garment designed for post-pregnancy provides constant pressure to the incision to assist you with hands-free compression for when you laugh with your baby and loved ones, sneeze, or use the washroom. Those actions can unexpectedly cause the abdomen to strain, which can accidentally rip your incision. Allows For Deep Breathing To Reduce Stress Breathwork is one of the best, natural pain-relieving strategies. Pain triggers the fight-or-flight response, which creates a surge of the stress hormone, cortisol. Improving your oxygen supply to your muscles activates the parasympathetic system (rest-and-digest mode) to ease anxiety, tension, and manage your pain. Wearing a post-pregnancy girdle improves your back posture to open up space for your diaphragm to expand, allowing you to take full, deep breaths. Now, let's get to the stories of our incredible Bellefit moms who experienced c-section deliveries. Kim's C-Section Recovery With Bellefit Kim during her third trimester. Kim began wearing her Dual-Closure Girdle on the third day postpartum. She also has the Bellefit Corset, which she wore a week after as she transitioned down in size. As a military wife, Kim needs every bit of energy she has to care for her new baby and her own needs, while her husband is away on duty. She loved how secure she felt in her movements while wearing her corset. "Bellefit Girdles helped me have an awesome recovery from my c-section! It gave me back support and the tightness I needed to tighten my belly! I love love love the Bellefit girdle and the results it has given me so far!” Kim holding her baby (5 weeks postpartum) Kim completed her postpartum recovery with Bellefit 8 weeks after her c-section — However, every woman and postpartum recovery is unique. Chelsea Experienced Pain Relief With Her Postpartum Girdle With Chelsea's first pregnancy, she had undergone an emergency c-section that caused her to suffer unbearable pain. She recounts even walking around the grocery was difficult, and she needed a wheelchair. She didn't know about Bellefit after her first c-section. When she was pregnant with her second child, she was determined to find the right products that would help her in her postpartum recovery. Chelsea came home three days after delivering her second child and immediately wore her Bellefit Abdominal Binder, designed for c-section births. This time her recovery experience was much more bearable. “I just felt so much better <...> I felt like I was able to walk around, get up and down the stairs a lot easier – even laughing, I didn’t feel like my stitches were gonna come out when I was wearing my girdle." First Time Mom, Malva Recovers with Abdominal Binder After C-Section Malva was amazed at how quickly her stomach bounced back to its pre-pregnancy size after wearing her girdle in just one week. “Not only that, the muscles in my belly were starting to feel hard again, <...> It was so comfy that I forgot I was wearing it, and another very big plus is that it improved my confidence. I was able to sit, bend over, lay down and I slept wearing it, too." Malva shows her photo at the peak of her pregnancy, just postpartum, and after wearing a Bellefit Abdominal Binder Bellefit Results Women who wear Bellefit typically experience two types of results which can happen within 1 – 12 weeks postpartum. Bellefit Makes You Feel Stronger The moment you put on your girdle, you’ll immediately feel the difference. Bellefit tightens your abdomen, providing relief to your weakened midsection. Being able to keep up with your baby and get back to exercising sooner is a liberating experience, which is why others are saying such great things about waist training post pregnancy. Abdominal Binder After C-Section alleviates pain Bellefit Makes You Feel Confident These garments are more than your typical shape-wear underwear, in that they provide medical-grade compression. But you can't deny how good you'll look in your Bellefit corset. The garments are sleek under clothing and are designed to trim your waistline and smooth the belly. Over time, women notice their abdomen is reducing in size as their postpartum swelling diminishes. Wearing Bellefit within the first year after giving birth will give you the best results. Now, let's briefly outline some features of the best post c-section garments. The Best Bellefit Girdles For C-Section Recovery Bellefit has the widest selection of FDA-registered postpartum girdles with 8 styles in sizes XS – 3XL. We'll go over the 7 best styles women love specifically for c-section recovery. Garment Style Features Corset • This is best for when swelling is at its peak• 3 row adjustable front hooks• Full rear coverage• Accessible crotch opening Dual-Closure Girdle • Excellent for swelling • 3 row adjustable hooks• Convenient padded zipper with anti-pinch• Full rear coverage• Medical-grade protection for c-section incision area• Accessible crotch opening for flow pads Bodysuit Corset • Best for long torsos• Full rear coverage• Open bust body suit• Adjustable and removable straps • 3 row adjustable front hooks Cheekster Corset • No-panty line cheekster-style panty• 3 adjustable front hook closures• Medical-grade protection for c-section incision area• Accessible crotch opening for flow pads Corset Thong • Thong-style panty• Adjustable and removable shoulder straps• Can be worn classic, cross-back, or strapless• Accessible crotch opening for flow pads Girdle with Front Zipper • Easy-to-fasten front padded zipper• Full rear coverage panty• Accessible crotch opening to accomodate heavy flow pads Girdle With Side Zipper • Seamless front, discrete under clothing• Padded side zipper • Accessible, adjustable crotch opening Bellefit Postpartum Girdles, Corsets & Abdominal Binders If you're looking for panty-less option waist trainers and abdominal binders, people also love Bellefit's selection in sizes XS – 4XL. Ultimately, shopping for the best c-section girdles for you will depend on your personal recovery needs and style preferences — You can rest assured that Bellefit has your needs in mind when designing these garments.

The immediate elation of having a precious new baby lying on your chest all squirmy and beautiful may quickly give way to exhaustion. For first-time deliveries, the average time in labor is about 14 hours. On average, three of those hours are devoted to pushing for a typical vaginal delivery. That’s a lot of hard work with very little sleep over a 24-hour period. 1.Postpartum Exhaustion As you near you due date, clear your schedule. Limit anything other than packing a hospital bag and personal primping. This is not the time to be painting a nursery or entertaining family. In hindsight, I should have watched soap operas and napped instead of doing five loads of laundry the day I went into labor. Save your strength. You’ll need it. 2. It Hurts After The Baby Comes Too You’ll hear plenty about the process leading up to and through that final push. Or for a C-Section, the “pull”. This includes, but isn’t limited to cramps, contractions, nausea, and an epidural. If you are pregnant for the first time, you’ll likely get an earful from older relatives, well-meaning friends and co-workers. But what about the after? I had some tearing and an episiotomy with my first baby. That means stitches in a place where, well, let’s just say it’s tender. C-section moms have even greater wounds to deal with. Even without stitches, something relatively big just came out of something relatively small. Where there is trauma, there is pain. I received one dose of “the good stuff” following delivery as a reward for a job well done. After that, it was over-the-counter pain relievers and warm soaks for the aching lady parts. I also felt a lot of pain in my back, shoulders, ribcage and abdomen from the ordeal. It was like being roughed up in a fender bender. And bowel movements? Ouch. Labor also often brings on hemorrhoids.. So laxatives, stool softeners and lots of fluid are a must. Fortunately, most of the pain and discomfort is gone in about two weeks. But be prepared to hurt all over for a little while. If you have a C-section, you won’t deal with an episiotomy or vaginal pain and swelling. However, your stitches may sting and itch. Healing also takes longer — four to six weeks. You should keep a close watch for any sign of infection. Proper support garments can help with the healing process for both vaginal and CS deliveries. 3. Feelings And Emotions After Giving Birth Are All Over The Map One day I was in love with my baby and the next I wondered who she was. I worried that we wouldn’t bond, that I was doing something wrong. Did I love her enough or too much? Why was my belly still huge? Would I ever sleep again? Why was I crying? How could I be laughing? Why was I sitting there feeling numb? Pregnancy hormones — HCG, estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, oxytocin, relaxin — rise dramatically during the various trimesters as they provide a hospitable womb for your growing child and prepare your body for delivery. And then, kaboom; total hormone dump. Even the most even-tempered new mom will feel the effects. And for many, postpartum depression is a reality. I was always a “pull-up-your-big-girl-panties” kind of gal until the first month after I gave birth. Looking back, I wish I had been gentler with myself and rolled with it. Your emotions will get the better of you on many days. Rest and self-care, along with time, is all that is needed for most new moms. However, an estimated 15-20 percent of pregnant women suffer from postpartum depression in degrees ranging from mild depression to postpartum psychosis. Dealing with the expectations of motherhood coupled with hormonal imbalance can trigger depression and accompanying feelings of shame or guilt. If you’re experiencing PPD symptoms, don’t try to go it alone or tough it out. Reach out to your support system, seek out other new mothers and consult with your doctor for help. It’s not unusual to have feelings of anxiety or being overwhelmed. Ask for help. It’s OK 4. The Worst Period of Your Life I expected some bleeding after giving birth, but I didn’t realize the extent, or the value of super maxi pads jumbo count until then. The medical term for it is lochia, and it’s not a regular period. The uterine lining that thickens over the term of your pregnancy sheds, along with mucus from the healing process. However, the greater part of the bleeding is due to the wound left in your uterus from the placenta pulling away. It usually heals up in two to three weeks, but too much activity can reopen the wound and cause more bleeding For the first few days the flow is heavy, dark and includes clotting. It will slow down and change color to brownish, then yellowish, and toward the end look more like a pale discharge instead of blood. Postpartum bleeding can last up to six weeks. However, this depends on your healing process. During this time you shouldn’t use tampons or a menstrual cup, to minimize infection risks. Breathable granny panties are your friend. How soon your regular period starts back up varies from mom to mom. It also depends on if and how you breastfeed. The earliest you might expect a regular period is around six weeks after giving birth. 5. More Core Exercises Before Pregnancy Is A Great Idea I was young, healthy and thought I was in good shape. Had I known how strenuous the process of pregnancy and childbirth really is, I would have paid more attention to my core and pelvic floor. When planning a pregnancy, consider yourself to be “in training.” Getting your back and stomach muscles in shape, as well as making Kegel-time a part of your daily routine, will help to protect you from postpartum back pain, hernias and a condition known as diastasis recti following your delivery. A strong core will make it easier and faster to heal Mummy Tummy, too. Even if you’re already pregnant, there are exercises you can do to strengthen your core. However, be sure to check with your doctor for safe routines. Crunches and sit-ups can do more harm than good. Finally, a good postpartum compression binder can help with the healing process and boost a new mom’s confidence. Bellefit Featured Products

Do you ever look at celebrity gossip magazines and wonder how these celebrities look so flawless in these form-fitting dresses? Their secret weapon is a body shaper. Shape wear underwear is excellent for a night out — however, one of the downsides is that it often doesn't provide enough support for post-pregnancy bodies. Every mom experiencing anxiety over their post-baby body has wished for something to make the transition back to normal easier. What product offers the best control for the tummy post-pregnancy? A belly bandage is a step in the right direction — You can wear it while pregnant, and some options provide gentle support as you recover from delivery. However, we have another option that takes the best of both worlds. Read on to find the best body shaping garment for post-pregnancy bodies. When should you wear a body shaper? Body shaper undergarments are great for when you want to look flawless beneath form-fitting outfits. Ladies' body shapers are designed to appear seamless under clothing while maintaining light compression around the midsection to give the illusion of a slimmer body. You can think of body shapers, such as the popular Spanx, as a band-aid patch to the extra weight around the belly. They help to smooth and minimize, but it's not going to help you effectively lose weight. The benefits of body shapers include: A comfortable, seamless fit Available in various colors, shapes, and sizes A toned appearance Affordable When should you wear a belly band? Abdominal bands or wraps hug the midsection to provide gentle compression. There are band options to wear while you're pregnant to support the back and abdomen as the baby grows and other varieties designed after delivery. Do postpartum wraps help with post-delivery pain and support? Yes, they do — but they're not always the most comfortable fit. Because these garments only wrap around the midsection, they can easily get displaced. Cheaper belly bandages are often made with bulky, itchy materials, which aren't the most discrete under clothing. The benefits of belly bandages include: Available in different sizes and styles (before and after pregnancy) Comfortable fit Offer shaper compression benefits Gentle compression to reduce severity of the pain post-baby delivery Encourages improved posture very light support abdominal band circular knit band with targeted support zones bulky midsection belts with velcro What's the best post-pregnancy garment? Body shaping underwear empower women's confidence while offering comfort and support — Bellefit Maternity takes this one step further. The Bellefit Postpartum Girdle provides the benefits of both a belly bandage and a body shaper for women who have recently given birth. Wearing a Bellefit C-Section Recovery Corset or Dual-Closure Girdle protects and supports the c-section incision. It simultaneously compresses the abdominal area and uterus to help reduce swelling due to fluid retention. Those suffering from diastasis recti can find comfort with a postpartum girdle. They're made with durable, flexible materials that provide high-grade compression to minimize the pain after delivery and support the back and abdominal muscles, so you can get back to your normal range of motion faster. The best way to lose the extra baby weight is exercise and a healthy diet, so the sooner you get moving again, the sooner you can get shedding the excess weight. Bellefit Postpartum Girdles and Corsets — Medical Grade, FDA-Registered, Recommended since 2008, Available in 8 Styles & in Plus Sizes The benefits of Bellefit girdles and corsets: Offers the same seamless toning benefits as body shapers and belly bands Medical-grade compression to reduce pain and swelling High-quality, comfortable materials Comes in different styles and adjustable sizes (from XS - 3XL) Added padding to protect c-section incisions Excellent to wear during exercises for its abdominal and back support Accessible crotch opening with 3 rows of adjustable hooks to accommodate heavy flow pads How long should you wear your girdle or belly band? You can wear a post-pregnancy girdle or belly bandage 24/7. Many new moms find that wearing their compression garments alleviate pain symptoms, which helps them get a better night's sleep. The Verdict: Bellefit Girdles Are The Way To Go Post Pregnancy Bellefit Mom, Robyn Robyn began wearing her Bellefit Dual Closure Girdle the day she delivered her son. She wore it 24-hours a day for the first six weeks. Not only did the corset keep her posture straight and allow her to carry her son with ease, but it allowed her to sit more comfortably, easing discomfort in her back – and after nine hours of back labor, that was an important feature. She was amazed by the positive comments she received about her appearance post-pregnancy. “I received many compliments on how quickly I was getting my pre-pregnancy body back,” Robyn said. Watch Robyn’s Video Testimonial Robyn has since given birth to her second son, another natural labor that left her with painful cramping as her uterus returned to its natural size. She found that using the Bellefit Postpartum Girdle was the only thing to offer relief: “I was actually able to feed him comfortably, without pain while wearing it, so I wore it 24/7 for the first three months after giving birth.” The extra support even allowed her to help out when the family moved just 20 days after giving birth! The active mom said it was the compression and support that also allowed her to quickly get back into running and playing soccer within a month-and-a-half of giving birth. The benefits are endless when it comes to the support a postpartum girdle can offer but choose the product carefully to ensure not only short-term results but long-term confidence.

C-Section belly bands aid your abdominal muscles while they begin to heal and strengthen, they help prevent or alleviate Diastasis Recti, and they reduce recovery time.

Welcome to new mommy hood! Until you have a baby, you'll probably never experience a love as profound as the one you feel for your newborn and exhaustion as deep as the one you'll feel within. After all, your delivery and recovery involve intense labor on your body and emotions that will leave you longing for a nap (or two). Don't worry, things may be a little hectic (and possibly foreign) at first, but you will achieve a balance and your new life will be just as amazing as you imagine it will be. Lets take a look at what to expect when your baby is born. Love at First Sight? The first time that moms meet their babies face to face differs in emotions from mom to mom. The reason is that every woman and the circumstances of their childbirth delivery are different. There are women who immediately bond with their newborns and seem to know exactly what to do, and there are women who need a little more time to soak it all in and get to that point. Whichever experience you have will be exactly how it should be for you. Moderate Soreness Consider the fact that for almost 40 weeks, your body has made major accommodations for your growing baby. Skin has stretched, organs have shifted and certain parts have grown accordingly. When your baby is born, your body will continue shifting but this time the goal is to help you recover. You may feel bubbling sensations or sudden pressure within your abdomen for the first few days (or weeks), which are normal. Just be patient, it will be over before you know it. Hello Milk One of the most amazing things that we as humans have is the ability to feed our babies with custom-made breast milk. Yes, as soon as your baby is born, the hormones in your body will send a signal to release colostrum, which is the beginning of the breast milk flow for your baby. You will possibly experience leaking from your breasts and some temporary soreness as you get used to this big change. You can keep breast pads handy to ensure that you never have any leaking accidents. Once the colostrum serves it purpose, your mammary glands will go on to produce breast milk which can be your baby's sole source of nutrition for the months to come. Swelling It's very common for women to experience swelling after childbirth. This occurs for a variety of reasons including reactions to medications, water retention or hormonal changes. Whichever the reason may be, be sure to stay hydrated rest when possible and consult with your doctor if you feel any pain or are concerned about the swelling. Soft Belly When your baby is born, the space that he or she filled inside your womb will need some time to shrink back down; this in turn will leave your abdomen softer and more jiggly than you are used to. It is perfectly normal and it will get better. Many women use postpartum compression garments to help themselves feel together and to relieve the pressure of shifting organs inside. This along with breast-feeding, a healthy diet and rest will set you in the right direction to recover your pre-pregnancy shape. The "M" Word Say hello to your long lost feeling of menstruation. For the first week (sometimes weeks) after giving birth, you will experience postpartum bleeding which is normal. Your body will naturally cleanse your uterus of its baby making experience. This will of course be accompanied by the usual cramping. Try to have lots of heavy flow pads ready to go os you don't run out. Also talk to your doctor about options to help with any pain and if you experience a flow that seems heavier than normal. Emotional Roller Coaster Emotions can be a bit challenging to understand and keep under control after you have a baby. Hormones continue to take charge of everything your body is going through and it's perfectly normal to experience emotional highs and lows. Be patient with yourself and know that you are not alone in this and that everything will get easier with each day that you continue to bond with your baby. Zzzzzzzz? Well, it's no secret that the average newborn baby sleeps a maximum of 2-3 hours at a time (if you're lucky). You will of course, be on the same schedule to both feed and change him/her. This intense schedule may take it's toll on your energy levels, so have a plan to make sure that at some point you can get a little more rest. You can work on practicing different breastfeeding positions that allow you to lie down with your baby to nurse. Some women opt to pump their breast milk so that their partner can feed the baby and allow some time for mom to rest. What About a C-Section? Women who give birth via C-section will experience all of the changes mentioned above. In addition, they will be recovering from major abdominal surgery and feel pain and pressure in both their abdomen and uterus. The recovery process after a C-section takes longer than a natural birth especially in the first hours following the surgery. Women will feel intense pressure and pain, as they are encouraged to stand up and move about within hours of surgery. Many women use postpartum compression garments to help themselves feel together, to relieve pressure and to help pain subside. Your doctor will very likely provide you with pain medication and advice you to do no strenuous physical activity for up to six weeks. This means the only weight you will be allowed to carry will be your baby. You Can Do It! It's true that having a baby can be challenging for you and your body at first. Just keep in mind the tips above to be prepared to manage the journey of your body's recovery in a most positive manner. Always be open to asking for help and be sure that the difficulty of the first few weeks will be far outweighed by the love you'll have for your new baby