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Figuring out how to regain your pre-pregnancy body is a common anxiety with new mothers. You've been through a lot. You gained weight, and then you lost it. You lived through soreness, heartburn, and exhaustion. Your body goes through significant changes during pregnancy and again after childbirth. Weight gain is an obvious hurdle to bounce back from. And it's no surprise that cesarean deliveries tend to be more demanding than natural births. The former involves an incision to the abdominal wall and uterus, which is no walk in the park. Because of this, you can expect healing and getting back to your pre-pregnancy weight to take some time, but don't fret. Pregnancy weight loss after a c-section is within reach with the right mindset and these actionable tips. Bellefit Postpartum Girdles and Corsets — Medical Grade, FDA-Registered, Recommended since 2008, Available in 8 Styles & in Plus Sizes Babies take a lot out of us—physically, emotionally and mentally—and although they bring us a huge amount of joy and fulfillment as we adjust to life with them in our arms, the process can be draining at times. It's important that we learn how to take care of ourselves after giving birth so that we have more energy for our babies. While some of these pieces of advice can be implemented before the baby arrives, others will require some time. Let's get into these 10 tips. 10 Best Ways to Lose Weight After a C-Section Photo credit: yourhealthsupport.in #1 Eat Healthy It should come to no surprise that an effective weight loss plan will start with a healthy diet. You must eat wholesome foods that fuel your body, so you can begin losing weight after pregnancy. Now is not the time to restrict your calories — your body needs the energy to recover from c-section surgery and nourish your baby. The basic idea here is to eat a wide variety of healthy foods that fill you up without over-consuming calories (which will depend on many factors). Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, protein, and fats, and avoid overly processed foods. Processed foods tend to lean high in unhealthy fats and sugars, and are difficult for the body to digest. Reach for whole grains, dark leafy greens, eggs, lean meats, low-mercury seafood, and high-fat dairy products with no added sugar to help you with milk production and fuel you with energy for exercise. Here's a shopping tip to making sure you go home with less processed junk — shop outside the grocery isles. The walls of the grocery store tend to stock fresh produce, meats, and dairy, while the isles have foods that require preservatives and extra processing to increase the shelf-life. Need some meal advice to help you plan your day? We've got you covered. Breakfast: Avoid filling up on pastries (croissants, muffins, danishes) or cereals for breakfast. They tend to be high in sugar and carbs, which can spike your insulin levels, leading to an eventual energy crash and can perpetuate sugar cravings. Try to include unprocessed foods from the five food groups. If you're opting for yogurt (a favorite breakfast food), look for brands that don't add any extra sugar. If you need a bit of sweetness, use fresh or frozen fruit or sweeten with a bit of honey. Lunch: Your lunch, like every meal, should be nutritionally balanced. Protein and fats are naturally satiating, meaning it will keep you feeling full for longer to avoid mindless snacking between meals. Dinner: Healthy doesn't mean it needs to take a lot of time. Prepare your own nutritionally balanced freezer meals that are preservative-free — soups, casseroles, quiches, and side vegetables are all freezer-friendly and quick to serve. Salmon is one of the best sources of proteins for breastfeeding moms because it's chock-full of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), a form of omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3 DHA is especially vital for breastfeeding mothers because it's critical for the growth and functional development of the brain and nervous system in infants. While eating right and exercising are two of the most important parts of losing baby weight, they're also two of the hardest. After all, you've probably gained some pounds during your pregnancy and now you have a newborn to care for—and while that adorable little bundle is a great reason to get up early, it's also an excuse to stay up late. Going from the time when you were pregnant and free to eat what you wanted to the time when you have a baby is difficult, because everything has changed. It's not just about what food is available anymore; it's about how much time you have and who might be hungry at any given moment. But there are some things that have remained constant: eating right is essential to losing weight, but it's also one of the hardest parts of the process. And it doesn't help that there are so many conflicting articles about nutrition for new mothers—some say that breastfeeding means you don't need as many calories; others say you can never eat too much protein or fiber again. While this isn't one of those articles, we can all agree that it's hard to figure out what's best when there are so many opinions on the subject. Coincidentally, eating a healthy diet will help with the next "weight loss after baby" tip. Photo credit: stylecraze.com #2 Breastfeed the Baby Did you know breastfeeding helps with weight loss after pregnancy? This is because your body burns around 500 extra calories to produce milk with life-sustaining nutrients — vitamins, fats, proteins — for the baby. How long does it take to lose weight after a c-section? Regardless of whether you've had a natural birth or delivered via c-section, you can expect to lose weight in as little as a couple of months after delivery if you breastfeed. Most healthy newborn babies are ready to breastfeed as early as an hour after birth. Studies have shown that breastfeeding mothers shed more weight quicker than mothers who don't, especially during the first three postpartum months. Breastfeeding also triggers the release of the hormone, oxytocin, which causes the uterus to contract. This contraction helps the uterus shrink back to its pre-baby size, effectively making your belly look and feel smaller. Of course, there are many other benefits of breastfeeding your baby, including strengthening your baby's immune system, aiding in growth and development, and it's easier for your child to digest over formula. To go back to our first tip, make sure you're eating a balanced healthy diet so you can produce the best milk for your baby. Breastfeeding is an amazing way to nourish a child, but it takes some work. Some mothers find it easy and can do it without any discomfort whatsoever, but for others, it can be emotionally and physically draining. One of the biggest factors in how breastfeeding goes for a mother is the diet she follows -- what she eats directly affects the quality of the breast milk she produces. So, in order to give your baby the best start possible, limit your caffeine intake, avoid high-mercury seafood, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol while breastfeeding. Photo credit: kinetic-revolution.com #3 Start Exercising Before we talk about exercising to lose weight after pregnancy, it's advisable to wear postpartum underwear — or, better yet, a supportive post-pregnancy girdle for your workouts. A high-quality post-pregnancy girdle squeezes everything around your belly in tight to support your abdominal and back muscles during your exercises. Now, let's get to the part about why this is the best tip for losing pregnancy weight after a c-section. There's simply nothing better than physical movement and training as far as weight loss is concerned — but be mindful of how your body feels. C-section deliveries require more time to heal. Typically, exercise should be avoided in the first six to eight weeks after giving birth — but it doesn't mean you shouldn't get moving. You can start by going for short walks. You'll start by walking short distances at first, and gradually build up to the point where you're walking at least 30 minutes three times a week. This might mean going for 5 minute walks 4 times each day or walking for 20 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the evening. You'll have to go at your own pace—there's no shame in taking your time getting there! Walking after abdominal surgery prevents blood clots and speeds healing. Before you start your walks, check with your doctor to make sure they're okay with it. After speaking with your doctor, and you no longer have any pain from your c-section incisions, it's safe to start with low-impact exercises such as yoga, low-resistance bands, the elliptical, pilates, swimming, or light jogging. What's the best exercise to lose weight after a c-section? As you gradually rebuild your strength in your body over time, you may increase the intensity of your workouts. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts are excellent for burning calories to lose extra belly fat after a c-section delivery, and HIIT workouts don't take much time out of your day (20 - 45 minutes). After all, you need to make the most out of your time with a new baby in the house. Exercising with Diastasis Recti Diastasis recti, a condition in which the abdominal wall separates and allows the abdominal muscles to move away from each other, is a common pregnancy-related issue that affects many women. Diastasis recti is most commonly seen as a bulge or pouch in your lower abdomen and can sometimes lead to lower back and pelvic pain. Since it occurs due to the stretching of the connective tissue between the left and right side of your rectus abdominis (the abdominal muscle) during pregnancy, it can also be caused by heavy lifting or obesity in non-pregnant adults. Diastasis recti occurs when the abdominal muscles (the 6-pack muscles) separate from the center, weakening your core. The condition also increases your risk of back pain and incontinence, and can make it difficult to lose weight after pregnancy because you're not supporting your midsection properly. Although in many cases a diastasis will correct itself after birth as you regain strength in your core, it could also require surgery to repair. Even if it does self-correct, women sometimes develop bulging or protruding abdomens that need to be repaired surgically through either a tummy tuck or an umbilical hernia repair. If you've experienced severe pain during pregnancy or notice large gaps in your abdominal muscles postpartum, talk to your doctor about whether you should schedule an appointment with a specialist for an evaluation. Getting rid of this extra pouch on your stomach after a c-section can be challenging, since you may be dealing with stitches. Before you get back to exercising, get the green light from your doctor, and start with gentle core exercises. Wearing a c-section corset immediately after surgery and during exercises can help mitigate pain from diastasis recti and help support the surrounding muscles in the core while you regain strength. #4 Limit Unhealthy Eating This may be an obvious tip — but sometimes unhealthy foods are hidden in plain sight and can be disguised as healthy options. The goal is not to stop indulging in delectable desserts. Because that's unachievable and unrealistic. Instead, try to reduce consumption. Candy, ice-cream, cookies, and cake are obvious junk foods that are abundant in calories, sugar, and saturated fat. Fruit juices, flavored yogurt, granola, diet foods are marketed as healthy, but they can contain a lot of hidden calories, extra sugar, carbs while offering minimal nutritional value. Fruit juice, for example, is an excellent source of vitamin C — however, it's packed with sugar and lacks the fiber from the fruit. The fiber balances the fructose (sugar) by helping slow the absorption. Without it, you may as well eat spoonfuls of sugar. When it comes to losing weight, being selective of where your calories come from is a must. You need to maintain a certain number of calories to fuel for your body for both breastfeeding and exercise — overconsumption will lead to weight gain. Unfortunately, processed food and sugar perpetuate a vicious cycle. The more you indulge in unhealthy food, the more often you crave it. To avoid sugar and carb cravings, reach for food high in healthy fats and protein. Fat and protein are naturally satiating, meaning it will keep your body feeling full for longer. When you feel full, you avoid snacking where you're more prone to give in to these unhealthy choices. Photo credit: globalwomenconnected.com #5 Remain Hydrated Regardless of whether you've just given birth or are only looking to lose weight, hydration is key to losing belly fat. Dehydration is often behind the scenes when we feel food cravings emerge. The body often confuses thirst for hunger, making you reach for food over water. This can lead to consuming more calories than you need in a day, delaying your fat loss goals. Hydration becomes so much more critical when you're breastfeeding to nourish the baby. One way to know that you're sufficiently hydrated is to have a peek at your urine when you use the washroom. If your pee is dark, you definitely aren't drinking enough water. Use a water bottle with measurements, so you can track your progress throughout the day. But not everybody likes to drink so much water. In that case, don't hesitate to jazz up your beverage with natural flavors. You can add lemon, lime, or fresh mint to the glass of water — You won't believe how delicious cucumber water tastes! Other options include brewing tea or eating fruits and vegetables high in water like lettuce, celery, cucumber, and watermelon. If you find you're not seeing the results you want with your c-section weight loss goals, try drinking more water and increasing your electrolytes to stay hydrated. Electrolytes are essential salts and minerals that the body needs to maintain the balance of fluids in our system. If you don't replenish your electrolytes via a balanced diet or oral supplements, you can feel dehydrated or experience several other symptoms of electrolyte imbalance. Coconut water, fruits like bananas and avocados, and dairy products contain high amounts of potassium that helps the body retain water and is involved with many other vital bodily functions. # 6 Don't Skip Meals Sometimes, we believe that in order to lose weight we must reduce the amount of meals we eat. This is absolutely false. It is extremely important to eat several meals during the day to keep your metabolism active, which will help you lose weight after delivery. With these small tips you can safely achieve your goals: Don't skip any meals. With a new baby, many new mothers forget to eat. This is very dangerous because if you don't eat your energy will be affected and that instead of helping you lose weight can cause the opposite. Eat 3 to 5 small meals a day. Instead of eating 2 or 3 large heavy meals during the day, divide your meals into small meals. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day; always eat it. Surprisingly, it is one of the most common meals that new mothers tend to skip. Snacks are great for keeping you energized before you get to your next meal. We recommend choosing snacks that have fiber and protein. This will help keep you satiated and energized until your next meal. It is best to have 2 of your 5 meals as snacks. #7 Perform specific exercises After a cesarean section you will probably have to take some time to recover and will not be able to exercise for a while. However, as you recover, you can perform low-impact exercises that will help you burn calories without overexerting yourself like when you go to the gym. When performing these exercises, it is important to remember to start slow and listen to your body. It is also important to stay hydrated by drinking water or other non-caffeinated beverages when doing any type of physical activity. As your body continues to heal, you can then work up to more strenuous exercises like running or taking an aerobics class at the gym. By waiting until your body has recovered at least partially before getting back into intense exercise, you reduce the risk of injuring yourself again and also prevent yourself from putting unnecessary strain on an area of your body that is still healing. Walking A benefit of this exercise is that you can join other moms so that you can motivate each other to do it and support each other in your weight loss after a cesarean section. Walking is one of the best exercises because it is easy on your muscles and joints which makes it great after surgery. Walking is also a good form of exercise because it gets your heart rate up so you can still get the benefits of exercising even if you are just beginning to get back into exercise after delivery. If possible, try walking around the block with your baby in their stroller. You can also walk around indoors with either an exercise machine such as an elliptical or treadmill. Stretching Stretching is one of the most beneficial exercises for health. It will help you with all the muscles in your body. Not only that, but stretching can help you lose weight and have a fit body. One of the reasons why stretching has gained popularity among people is because it can be done at any time of the day and in any place you want. When you stretch, you are making your muscles to become elastic again so it will make your body feel lighter, stronger and more flexible. Also, it will give your muscles extra energy that can burn more fat when you are doing other activities like working out or jogging. Of course, if you are not used to stretching regularly then it is going to be hard for you to commit to doing it daily. However, there are many benefits that could push you to do this every day once you learn about them. Some people say that stretching is just for relaxing or for warming up before exercising but that is not true at all. Stretching is actually an exercise itself and it can help improve your overall health in many ways. For example, if you have overworked your muscles and they are sore, stretching will help reduce the pain while improving your muscle strength at the same time. #8 Avoid Processed Foods Some processed food contains various chemicals and substances that are not entirely healthy for our body. Many times, we are unknowingly consuming extra sugars or even fats. So, how do we make sure that we are eating the healthiest food possible? One way is to look at the ingredients of the food that you consume on a regular basis. If you notice any words or additives that you don't immediately recognize, don't be afraid to look them up. Processed foods are not inherently bad for you! It's just like anything else we consume – moderation is key. Eating too much sugar or fat can lead to weight gain and risk factors for heart disease. The same goes for processed foods – if you eat too much or too often, you may increase your caloric intake without realizing it. This can lead to weight gain over time which can increase your risk of heart disease as well as other health risks such as diabetes. In addition, when breastfeeding your baby, you will be giving him/her better quality milk since our body absorbs everything we consume. The more natural our food is, the more quality nutrients we will have in our body. #9 Find Motivation When we try to improve our habits, it is very common that soon after we start we give up. It is important to stay motivated during the process so that you are able to be consistent and adopt new eating and exercise habits. The first step is to think about why you want to make this change. You may want to lose weight, look better or feel better about yourself. Or maybe you want to be healthier and have more energy. Whatever your reason, write down your goals and keep them somewhere that you will see them everyday. When you reach a goal, celebrate! Reward yourself with something that makes you happy—a massage, a manicure, a night out with friends—it will help reinforce your new habits by making them more fun and enjoyable. After having a baby, it is very easy for your attention and care to be focused on the new baby. However, you should keep in mind that your health and care are also important. Find a motivation like a dress you want to wear or that trip to the beach you want to take later. #10 Be patient One of the reasons why it is difficult to lose weight after a cesarean section is not seeing the results in a short time. As new mothers are recovering from surgery, it is important to remember that losing weight after a C-section takes as much time and effort as it does to gain weight. It is also very important to remember that the body changes during pregnancy and requires some time to get back into shape. After pregnancy, it can be difficult to lose weight because of the excess skin that has grown during pregnancy and the extra fat around your abdomen. While it's great that you're taking control of your eating habits and exercising, please don't put too much pressure on yourself by setting a deadline for weight loss. The key to losing weight is to make healthy changes day-by-day, following a nutritious diet and working out regularly. Take your time and go at your own pace. Enjoy each meal and your exercise routine, and you'll see that before you know it, you'll be on your way to a healthy weight loss. Takeaways: How To Lose Weight After C-Section Delivery Many women struggle to lose weight post-pregnancy, especially if you've had a c-section delivery, which often has a longer recovery period. The best pieces of advice are about building healthier habits to sustain your weight goals, and it involves understanding what your body needs to heal and nurture your new baby. Tips such as eating healthy, limiting junk foods, and staying hydrated are actionable before giving birth and can help you with fat loss success after delivery. However, you'll see the most results once you start exercising again. The key to all of these steps is consistency. C-sections are major abdominal surgeries and should not be taken lightly. It's important to know that a woman who has just given birth should wait at least six weeks before starting any sort of diet or exercise plan. You may have heard that you can start exercising right away postpartum, but doing so could cause further harm to your body and slow down your recovery time from surgery. The best thing for a new mom to do is rest, eat well and take care of her new baby—this will help her lose weight naturally over time. What's the Difference Between a Postpartum Girdle and a Normal Girdle? A postpartum girdle can be worn after you deliver your baby. It supports painful areas such as your abdomen, pelvis and back. The purpose of a postpartum girdle is to help you heal after pregnancy. Some women even wear them for a few months before they give birth, in order to help the abdominal muscles prepare for the stress of childbirth and recovery after birth. After pregnancy, your abdominal muscles have been stretched out from nine months of pregnancy and childbirth. In most cases, it takes nine months to a year to recover from your delivery, depending on how you take care of yourself.

Now that I’m officially a “twin mom”, I decided to start something I like to call Twin Mom Tuesdays were I share my favorite twin mom items!. A lot of new moms/soon-to-be-twin-moms have been asking me to review different products, so I’m excited to start! Today I started wearing something I SO wish I had bought with my first pregnancy, but didn’t— the Bellefit Dual Closure Girdle! mrskyleeaustin This thing is amazing for twin moms because we all KNOW that abs are totally none existent once those babies arrive! I also had a c-section so the girdle gives me the extra support I need right now! I can’t wait to share more about my journey with Bellefit and my transformation! #transformationtuesday The belly is SLOWLY deflating! Haha The bottom right pic is me now at three weeks postpartum with twins! Can you believe my belly was that huge only three weeks ago? With the help of my @bellefit girdle I feel my abs and posture getting stronger and uterus going back into place. Sure, I’ll be left with some crazy sagging skin, but time will tell what my final result will be! Stay tuned! (Can’t wait to add some working out back into the equation!) To learn more about Diastasis Recti, Click Here! She Used:

“I’ve shared before that I had some ab separation after Maya. It’s not the most pleasant experience ever, and it can be a bit frustrating. I’m happy there are companies like @bellefit to support women in postpartum, both figuratively and literally. Get this, the company is headquartered in my hometown of sunny Weston, Florida! I could walk to the main office from my childhood home. So obviously they are really really really cool people! I’ve been trying out the corset model and I have to say I wish I had known about it earlier in postpartum. Those first couple of weeks I felt like all my internal organs were floating around and I was very protective of my belly. Having really solid support, compression and protection would’ve been great.Will it eliminate diastasis recti or make you lose weight? Not exactly, that’s not the intention. It’s geared toward recovery and healing. To help support and strengthen those abdominal muscles as you get used to using them again. They have sizes and models for all kinds of scenarios: from natural birth to c-section. It doesn’t replace healthy nutrition, exercise and mindset, and frankly I don’t think anything does. It’s a great tool to have on your team though. I’m going to be doing a giveaway shortly, so stay tuned for that. In the meantime you can click the link in my profile to learn more, and use the code SARAH20 to get $20 off if you purchase anything!” To learn more about Abdominal Muscle Separation visit our Diastasis Recti page. She Used:

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.

There are many differences between having your baby vaginally and having your baby via c-section childbirth: The method of delivery is the most obvious difference. During a vaginal delivery, a woman births her baby through her vagina, pushing in accordance with her contractions. During a c-section childbirth, a woman births her baby through a surgical opening in her abdomen. Emergency C-Section C-Section Scar C-Section Bandage C-section childbirth deliveries were once reserved for emergency situations or situations in which a mother would not be able to have her baby vaginally. In the past twenty years, the number of Cesarean births has been rising. Graph Credit: http://pattiturner.com/c-section-rates-nurses-play-role/ Regardless of the underlying reasons for such a rise, women must be prepared for a Cesarean delivery more than ever before. C-Section Procedure taking place in the operating room. C-Section is considered major surgery. How does C-Section Childbirth Work? A c-section childbirth delivery occurs in an operating room. The mother is typically awake for the surgery, but she must be anesthetized from the chest down. The obstetrician makes the c section incision right above the woman's pubic bone. The incision is typically four or five inches across. From there, the doctor pulls back the skin, moves the abdominal muscles aside, and makes another low cut across the uterus.Then the amniotic fluid is suctioned out of the uterus, and the baby is delivered. The baby is then suctioned by the nurses in the operating room and cleaned up a bit. The placenta is removed by the doctor as well. Then the new mother gets to see her baby. During this time, the obstetrician is stitching up the uterus, replacing the abdominal muscles, and stitching up the skin. If she desires it, the mother may nurse her baby in the recovery room. The road to recovery after c section begins here. Vaginal Delivery and Recovery Times Vaginal Delivery of Baby A vaginal delivery is more active for the mother. Once she goes through labor and is fully dilated, she will feel an urge to push her baby out. Typically she will push with her contractions, eventually pushing the baby down and out through the vagina, followed by the afterbirth, including the placenta. Depending on the speed of the birth and the size of the baby, the mom may experience some tearing around the perineum. These wounds will need to be stitched up by the doctors. If the mother desires, the baby can be placed directly on her chest after being born, before being whisked away to the warming table to be cleaned and weighed. Though some women who experience vaginal deliveries have major complications, they are usually easier to recover from than c-sections. Because a c-section is major abdominal surgery, new mothers will likely need additional support from their partners, extended family, and friends to accomplish many chores, including driving and household activities, such as lifting laundry baskets. All new mothers, however, need a great deal of support and understanding from their loved ones during the postpartum recovery period. Does wearing a Postpartum Girdle help Women Recovery Faster from a C-Section? After Birth One of the best ways to ease your discomfort after a c-section childbirth is to use an abdominal binder or compression girdle. Some OB/GYNs will recommend a corset or girdle to new moms when a c-section has been scheduled. Compression is a post-operative option for many types of surgery because it speeds the healing process. By increasing circulation to the area under compression, the damaged tissues experience a better immune response and receive more blood, nutrients, and oxygen. According to Bellefit reviews, the abdominal binder speeds healing, it also supports the lower back by holding in the abdominal wall. This improves a woman's posture, which can be very poor during the initial postpartum period. Bellefit offers a medical grade compression garment that is perfect for postpartum recovery after c section. Sometimes the pain associated with recovery can interfere with establishing successful breastfeeding, too. Women Wearing Postpartum Girdles After C-Section Although there are a few situations in which c-sections cannot be avoided, it is best to try to prevent the surgery and allow your body to give birth the way nature intended. Watch Kristen, Mom of 4, Share her Postpartum Recovery Bellefit Postpartum Girdles & Corsets

When will I Fit into my Pre-Pregnancy Clothes Again? What a great question! Most women worry a little bit about this, and the answer is highly individual. How long it takes you to return to your pre-pregnancy clothes depends on several factors, including: How much weight you gained during pregnancy, How active you are, and what body type you have. If you eat healthy foods and get moderate exercise, you should begin to lose your baby weight fairly quickly. Some women who breastfeed lose most of their weight quickly, but then hold on to about ten pounds until they wean their babies. There is no reason why you should not be able to fit into your pre-pregnancy clothes within a year of your baby’s birth. After nine months of pregnancy, you are probably anxious to wear your “real” clothes again. As almost every woman knows, feeling good in your pre-pregnancy clothes can work wonders for your emotional state. Here are some tips: Wear your favorite items as much as possible. When you can, style your hair, and put on a little makeup, too. The early weeks and months of your baby’s life are an intense adjustment period for new mothers. Well-fitting clothes can’t help your baby sleep through the night but they can help you feel a little bit like your old self again! Getting Back to Pre-Pregnancy Shape After nine months of pregnancy, you are probably anxious to wear your “real” clothes again. Pulling out the clothes you packed away while you were pregnant may feel like a shopping spree! But don’t get too excited about your pre-pregnancy clothes too quickly. Most women need several weeks, or even months, before fitting into their pre-pregnancy wardrobe. What to Wear Home from the Hospital After Giving Birth When you are packing your bag for the hospital, make sure to pack something comfortable to wear when you go home. Most women still look about six months pregnant in the first few days after birth, so choose your outfit accordingly. Packing something that you feel comfortable, yet beautiful, in will make your trip home all the more enjoyable. Whose Body is This? A few weeks after having your baby your body will begin to change. Wearing pants or shorts with wide, stretchy waistbands will be most comfortable as your belly begins to shrink. If you’ve had a c-section, this type of clothing will ease some of the discomfort associated with your incision. Wearing underwear that comes up over your incision or rests below it will be more comfortable as well. If you choose to breastfeed your baby, you will want to wear tops that accommodate your larger chest size. You will also need nursing bras during this phase. It is important that you wear bras that fit properly and support your breasts. If you are able to, go to a store where you can be fit for the right size nursing bra. An ill-fitting nursing bra can contribute to blocked ducts or discomfort as your breasts change size throughout the day. Does wearing a Postpartum Girdle help? Woman Wearing Postpartum Girdle One of the best ways to ease your discomfort after a c-section is to use an abdominal binder or compression girdle. Some OB/GYNs will recommend them to new moms when a c-section has been scheduled. Compression is a post-operative option for many types of surgery because it speeds the healing process. By increasing circulation to the area under compression, the damaged tissues experience a better immune response and receive more blood, nutrients, and oxygen. According to Bellefit Reviews, the Abdominal Binder Speeds Healing Bellefit girdles also support the lower back by holding in the abdominal wall. This improves a woman's posture, which can be very poor during the initial postpartum period. Bellefit offers a medical grade compression garment that is perfect for women who have had c-sections. Sometimes the pain associated with childbirth recovery from natural birth or c-section can interfere with establishing successful breastfeeding, too. Although there are a few situations in which c-sections cannot be avoided, it is best to try to prevent the surgery and allow your body to give birth the way nature intended. I wore my Bellefit every day as long as I could, and while taking care of the kids. It was so helpful for me, picking up my son who was 13 months when the twins were born and it not hurting my separated abdominals. Alexandra H. I heard about Bellefit long before I even conceived and knew that I would purchase a corset whenever I did have a child because the before/after pictures showed amazing results. Dana H. Mom Gets Back into Her Pre-Pregnancy Clothes with the Help of Bellefit This Article was brought to you in collaboration with Bellefit, the makers of the best postpartum girdles Founded in 2008 Bellefit® is the most mom-trusted and awarded brand of postpartum girdles & corsets for recovery after c-section or natural childbirth. Bellefit® girdles come in five designs made using proprietary compression fabrics. Their unique design features triple-layered reinforced front and back support panels. As a woman-owned company, Bellefit® is no stranger to the challenges new moms face during and after pregnancy. The company helps women feel supported and confident in their changing bodies. Bellefit Girdles

First off, what is an abdominal binder? Turns out, a whole lot more than immediate waist reduction — as made popular by Kim Kardashian. The abdominal binder is not a new invention. Just as women's bodies come in all shapes and sizes, abdominal binders come in many sizes, designs, and materials. Sometimes called a belly binder or an abdomen belt, they're designed to speed healing from abdominal surgery or after childbirth. An abdominal binder is meant to be quite tight — though not so tight that you can’t breathe or sit comfortably. Some abdominal binders are simple swaths of thick fabric that you wrap around your belly area, securing the wrap with velcro or a series of snaps. Other binders are more like a bodysuit that you step into and pull up around your midsection. Bellefit Postpartum Girdles, Corsets & Abdominal Binders In this article, we'll dive into the benefits of wearing an abdominal binder, answer common questions, and guide you through shopping for the best products on the market. Let's get into it. Table Of Contents Overview: Top Reasons for Wearing an Abdominal Binder Women Wearing Abdominal Binders After Pregnancy Postpartum Abdominal Binder May Increase Blood Flow Provides Abdominal Support During Exercise Abdominal Binder After C-Section Surgery to Relieve Pain If you had a c-section, an abdominal binder after surgery is a must for your healing process. Wear an Abdominal Binder to Readjust to Your Pre-pregnancy Clothing The Benefits of Abdominal Binder After Hysterectomy Common Questions About Abdominal Binders When to start wearing postpartum girdle? Can you sleep in abdominal binders? How long to wear postpartum girdle? Can you wear a belly binder after abdominal surgery? How To Shop And Compare The Best Abdominal Binders In Conclusion Overview: Top Reasons for Wearing an Abdominal Binder Provides abdominal support after childbirth, hernia, tummy tuck, hysterectomy, and other abdominal surgeries for increased range of motion and comfort Compression increases blood flow and reduces swelling to the abdominal region to promote healing Helps you get exercising sooner to recover from diastasis recti Save your abdominals and back muscles from pain A post pregnancy binder tucks in the belly, helping you fit into slimmer clothing to regain confidence in your body Women Wearing Abdominal Binders After Pregnancy Postpartum Abdominal Binder May Increase Blood Flow Your uterus pre-pregnancy is the size and shape of an upside-down pear and can stretch up to 500 times its original size during pregnancy. After your child is born, it takes approximately six weeks for this organ to shrink back to its original size — an abdominal binder can speed this process along by compressing the organ into place and increasing blood flow. Wearing an abdominal corset after delivery — vaginal or c-section — works wonders for your healing process. Compression therapy isn't a new invention. Compression bandages and socks apply even, gentle pressure to the affected area to reduce soreness, inflammation, and increase range of motion. The gentle tension from a high-quality abdominal compression garment increases blood flow to the region, bringing a fresh supply of oxygen and nutrients to the abdominal organs to speed healing. Bellefit® Postpartum Abdominal Binder Provides Abdominal Support During Exercise Hormonal changes and uterine growth causes stretching in the abdominal muscles. Roughly two out of three women will experience a separation of their abdominal muscles during pregnancy, which is undoubtedly painful. Diastasis recti is a condition where the muscles that make up the wall of the abdominals — also known as the "six-pack" — separate from your midline, making you look like you're still pregnant as the intestines and abdominal organs distend into the space. Diastasis can aggravate lower back pain as it has to compensate for the weakness in your core. Treatment can sometimes include surgery, such as a tummy tuck, or you can go a less invasive route with exercise and a strict diet. Wearing a postpartum binder while you exercise may increase your range of motion and ease your comfort in your workouts to regain tone and strength in your abdominals. A 2013 study found that starting your abdominal exercises from the second day after delivery is an effective method for restoring postpartum abdominal efficiency — a binder was worn for immediate waist reduction and to hold the muscles at the right tension to prevent them from sagging and expanding. Helps to Relieve Pain from C-Section Surgery Cesarean delivery is major surgery — an incision is made to the abdomen and into the uterus. It's no wonder why people often report a sore recovery for up to six weeks. Everything can feel loose and out of place — standing for too long is painful, bending over is painful, going to the bathroom is painful. It can make every day tasks a daunting experience, especially with a newborn. An abdominal binder is designed to support your abdominal and back muscles by holding everything together, so you're no longer feeling like everything is hanging and loose. It can even open your airways to improve your breathing, as it naturally straightens your posture, bringing more room into your diaphragm for lungs to fully expand. If you had a c-section, an abdominal binder is a must for your healing process. More than just a luxury item, an abdominal corset can get you back into a routine quickly while feeling comfortable and supported. Wear an Abdominal Binder to Readjust to Your Pre-pregnancy Clothing Sick of people asking when your baby is due after giving birth? One of the fastest benefits of wearing a post-natal binder may be a superficial reason, but it's important for your improving your confidence nonetheless. It's okay to feel different after giving birth, your body has undergone an incredible change — give yourself permission to heal with your new, temporary body. Abdominal binders are elastic, often made from soft, breathable materials that can be worn comfortably under your clothing, so no one will have to know you're wearing one. The binder will reduce the appearance of your tummy, so you can feel confident while you transition from your pre-baby body to post-baby bod. The Benefits of Abdominal Binder After Hysterectomy A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the uterus. An abdominal hysterectomy is much more invasive than a vaginal hysterectomy (where part of the uterus is removed). For some patients, it can take six to eight weeks to recover from an abdominal hysterectomy. The hospital will often provide you with a binder — but don't expect it to be the most comfortable fit. Investing in a high-quality binder will make all the difference for your recovery. Wearing an abdominal binder after surgery can help relieve pain, speed the healing process with compression, and provide back support. Common Questions About Abdominal Binders When to start wearing postpartum girdle? You can use your post-pregnancy binder immediately after delivery, even after surgical c-section. Can you sleep in abdominal binders? Depending on the type of surgery you've had, you can wear your abdominal binder 24 hours a day, and many patients choose to sleep with them to get the maximum benefits of compression. This is why it's important to compare and shop for high-quality garments, so you can feel comfortable in the material throughout the day and even as you sleep. How long to wear postpartum girdle? It's recommended you use your belt for the whole duration of your recovery. As your body changes during the weeks, you may need to size down in your abdominal binder to one that fits snugly. Shop with brands that offer multiple sizes in the style of girdle you like, so you can make each transition between sizing a breeze. The best options are often sold online for competitive pricing. Can you wear a belly binder after abdominal surgery? It depends on the abdominal surgery, but most belly binders are suitable to wear after surgical procedures. How To Shop And Compare The Best Abdominal Binders “Where Can I Purchase an Abdominal Binder?” How To Shop And Compare The Best Abdominal Binders. Before you shop, you should know the difference between the best postpartum belly wrap and postpartum girdles. Let's quickly compare the two. Girdles will offer much more support to your abdominals over a wrap, and it's often are made from stronger material and last longer. Wraps often have bulky velcro closures that don't conform to the natural curves of the body — making them more noticeable beneath clothes and can sometimes rub against the surgical incisions. There are so many options for post postpartum girdles or abdominal binders on the market today. Search for the best garments that offer the following features: A combination of comfort and support — breathable fabric is a must, especially since you will be wearing it for hours at a time. It should feel like a snug second skin. A hook and eye closure on a corset make it easy to use the restroom without taking the entire garment off. Reinforced panels in the front and back of the abdominal binders support the pressure points in your midsection as you heal. A snug fit ensures that the belt will not slip off, even as you care for your new baby and resume your normal daily activities. While you may find a few abdominal binders sold in a baby and pregnancy store, your best option is to purchase online, where you have a wide range of garments to choose from at a better price point than offered in store. Before you purchase your abdominal binder, ask friends for recommendations, read its product review, and compare quality and price on the market. When it comes to your health, you deserve only the best. In Conclusion By now, you should understand why so many women are sold on the abdominal binder pregnancy savior. It's more than just an item for aesthetics. The period after childbirth is a special time to connect with your new baby. Beat the baby blues and get back to feeling like your normal self by making your health and recovery a priority with one, high-quality item. An abdominal belt is a multifaceted tool — it provides stomach support after pregnancy or abdominal surgery and can help you gain confidence in your transition into your post-baby body. You'll quickly see the investment in your body and health is worth every penny.

Each woman's pregnancy, birth, c-section recovery, and motherhood experience is as unique as she is. And recovering from a c-section can be very difficult - with a c-section recovery belt/band, it can be much easier. Table Of Contents "> C-Section Recovery and Discomfort What Happens 24 hours After a C-Section? When to Seek Medical Attention After a C-Section Post C-Section Recovery Symptoms How Soon Can I Exercise and be Active After C-Section? Does wearing a Postpartum Girdle help with my C-Section Recovery? A c-section is a surgical birth; an obstetrician makes an incision in a woman's lower abdomen and removes the baby through this opening. A C-Section is a very different process from a vaginal birth experience. Because a c-section is major abdominal surgery, the recovery is quite different from a woman experiences after a vaginal birth. Women who have unplanned or emergency c-sections following a trial of labor may experience more challenges after their babies' births than those who had scheduled c-sections in advance. We've put together a C-section recovery guide to help you understand what to expect during your C-section recovery and how to make it go as smoothly as possible. C-Section Recovery and Discomfort There are varying degrees of discomfort for women during the c-section recovery period. In general, it takes women a longer time to recover from c-sections than from vaginal births. There are two incisions which need to be closed. Typically the inner incision - the one in your uterus - is closed with stitches that will dissolve away. The outer incision - the one you can see on your skin - is closed with stitches or staples. Stitches will usually dissolve on their own, but staples must be removed by the doctor. What Happens 24 hours After a C-Section? After the first 24 hours, you will be encouraged by your nurses to get up and walk around. Gentle movement like this helps jump start the healing process by increasing your circulation. If you feel up to it, hold your baby as soon as you can to facilitate bonding. The first two hours after your baby is born is a magical time to connect with your newborn! Babies are remarkably alert during this time, so it is a natural opportunity to spend private time with your child and your birth partner. If you plan to breastfeed your baby, ask the nurses to help you get started in the recovery room. Make sure you have support available to you. Lactation consultants and postpartum nurses make wonderful teachers and helpers in those early days of your baby's life. They can show you how to use pillows to ease some of your discomfort as you nurse your baby. Though it can be difficult, if you want to breastfeed after your c-section, you can do it! Chances are good that you had a catheter inserted during surgery to collect your urine. Sometime in the first 24 hours after surgery the catheter will be removed and you will need to practice using the bathroom on your own before you can go home. As crazy as that sounds, using the bathroom can be tough for new moms, no matter what type of birth you had! Because your abdominal wall has been significantly affected by your pregnancy and the surgery, you may find it difficult to move to a sitting position from lying down. Rolling over, laughing, and crying may also be painful for a while, too. When to Seek Medical Attention After a C-Section If you notice anything strange about your incision, call your doctor immediately: The incision feels warm or painful to the touch, If it is getting more red and tender, Or if it is leaking any sort of fluid, These are signs that you could have an infection. Call your doctor immediately. Post C-Section Recovery Symptoms You May Feel Nauseous Immediately following your c-section, you may feel nauseous. In fact, you might even vomit. Nausea is a common side effect to anesthesia, so your nurses will be ready for this reaction. Pain Many women will want or need to take a prescription pain medication to manage the pain associated with the early stages of their c-section recovery. Sometimes women going through a c-section recovery find it hard to breastfeed. This is because it is challenging to position your newborn correctly at the breast when your abdomen hurts! How Soon Can I Exercise and be Active After C-Section? Most of the time, women who have had c-sections should stick to light exercise during the first six to eight weeks after their babies are born. If you've had a C-Section, keep these recommendations in mind: Light walking is fine, as long as you feel up to it. It is important that your doctor check your incision area and clear you for moderate exercise before you resume your workout program. The most important thing to do as you recover from a c-section is to take it easy for a while. Let other people do your housework, and try not to lift anything or anyone heavier than your newborn. Be patient with yourself as you recover, too. The process is sometimes slow, but if you do too much too soon, you will only exhaust yourself. Does wearing a Postpartum Girdle help with my C-Section Recovery? One of the best ways to ease your discomfort after a c-section is to use a postpartum girdle for c-section, an abdominal binder, c section recovery belt/band, or compression girdle. Some OB/GYNs will recommend a post maternity girdle to new moms when a c-section has been scheduled. Compression is a post-operative option for many types of surgery because it speeds the healing process. By increasing circulation to the area under compression, the damaged tissues experience a better immune response and receive more blood, nutrients, and oxygen. Bellefit offers the best medical grade postpartum compression garment that is perfect for women who are going through c-section recovery. Some key features of Bellefit Postpartum Girdles are: The c-section recovery belt/band speeds healing. It also supports the lower back by holding in the abdominal wall. A c-section recovery belt/band improves a woman's posture, which can be very poor during the initial postpartum period. Do your very best to enjoy your brand new baby and just allow yourself to heal! Bellefit Has the Best Postpartum Girdles

What is a Cesarean Section? A Cesarean Section definition according to Miriam and Webster is, “a surgical procedure involving incision of the walls of the abdomen and uterus for delivery of offspring.” This means that the baby is taken out of the mother’s uterus by a surgeon. Why you may need a Cesarean Section Planned C-Sections have been on the rise for many decades. While some women may never have to give birth through Cesarean Section, others may only be able to do it in this way. There are several reasons why a mother may have a Cesarean Section. Some mothers may choose to have a C-section, some may develop medical complications that require a Cesarean Section, and others may be rushed into an Emergency Cesarean Section. Elective Cesarean Section Definition An elective Cesarean Section is when the pregnant woman chooses to have a Cesarean Section, not because of medical need, but because they would prefer it. Some women may not want to go through the pain of a vaginal birth and so they decide they would rather deliver their baby through Cesarean Section. Most doctors advocate for women to give birth vaginally, especially if there is not a medical reason for the Cesarean Section. Doctors vary in their thinking on these issues, but all obstetricians are trained as surgeons, so they tend to be quite comfortable with surgical birth. Planned Cesarean Section Definition A planned Cesarean Section is when a pregnant woman is advised by her physician that a Cesarean Section would be beneficial for the health of the child or herself. Planned Cesarean Sections are actually quite common, and typically are determined a few months before the due date. Sometimes there are complications that could lead to problems with a vaginal birth, and in these cases, your doctor will suggest you consider a Cesarean Section. Some of these problems include: The baby is in an abnormal position The woman is carrying more than one child The baby is too large for vaginal delivery The woman has a medical condition that could lead to problems during vaginal labor. This includes: high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), or herpes in the vaginal area The mother has had a C-section before Emergency Cesarean Section Definition An emergency C-section occurs when a woman was planning on having a vaginal birth but complications occurred. Usually, the physician decides to perform a Cesarean Section. Emergency C-Sections often occur when either the mother or the baby is in distress. Some reasons for an Emergency C-Section include: Labor is not moving as quickly as it should . This usually is if the mother has been in labor for multiple hours and there has been little to no change in dilation. The baby’s heart rate is abnormal. According to Stanford Children’s Health, “the fetal heart rate during labor is a good sign of how well the fetus is handling the contractions of labor. The heart rate is monitored during labor, with the normal range varying between 120 to 160 beats per minute.” Complications involving the placenta Complications involving the umbilical cord Recovery from C-Section Recovery from a C-Section is going to be very similar to recovery from a major surgery. You will need to take it slow and steady. Your body knows what it needs to heal - so listen to it. Many doctors will suggest you: take pain medication - as instructed by your doctor avoid sex - this can lead to rupture in the stitches at the incision site, and can also lead to infection avoid strenuous activity - try not to lift anything other than your baby, and try to avoid any twisting movements A doctor may also suggest you aid your recovery with a postpartum girdle. At Bellefit, we have postpartum girdles designed specifically for women who have had to have a Cesarean Section. These girdles help support your muscles as they strengthen. And they compress the incision site which can relieve pain, and aid your recovery by relieving tension. But don’t just take our word for it! Feel free to read some glowing reviews from mothers just like you. We know you want to get back to feeling your best, and we want to aid you along the way. Invest in a Bellefit postpartum girdle today and get back to doing the things that matter most.