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Why You Should Consider Wearing a Postpartum Belly Wrap
If you have recently given birth, you may be wondering how to get your body back to its pre-pregnancy shape and feel more comfortable in your skin.
While there is no magic solution to losing the baby weight or healing from a C-section, there is one thing that can help you feel more supported and confident during this time: a postpartum belly wrap.
A postpartum belly wrap, also known as a belly band, a postpartum girdle, or an abdominal binder, is a garment that wraps around your abdomen to provide compression and support to your muscles, organs, and incision (if you had a C-section). Many women use a postpartum belly wrap after having a baby for various reasons, such as:
Relieving pain and discomfort
Improving posture and mobility
Increasing blood flow and healing
Reducing swelling and inflammation
Supporting the pelvic floor and diastasis recti
Boosting self-confidence and body image
We will explore the benefits of wearing a postpartum belly wrap, how to choose the right one for you, and how to use it safely and effectively.
Benefits of Wearing a Postpartum Belly Wrap
Postpartum belly wraps have been used for a long time by doctors and patients for various purposes, such as back pain, tummy tucks, and abdominal surgery.
In obstetrics, these wraps can help women recovering from a vaginal delivery or a C-section with their posture, abdominal support, and self-confidence.
Some of the specific benefits of wearing a postpartum belly wrap are:
Helps relieve pain: A postpartum belly wrap can provide gentle compression and support to your lower back, pelvis, hips, and abdomen, which can help ease the pain and discomfort caused by pregnancy and childbirth. This can also help you get moving more easily and comfortably, which can speed up your recovery.
Helps increase blood flow: A postpartum belly wrap can stimulate blood circulation in your abdominal area, which can promote healing and reduce swelling and inflammation. This can also help prevent blood clots and infections, especially if you had a C-section.
Helps muscles and incision heal: A postpartum belly wrap can hold your muscles and organs in place as they move back to their normal position after pregnancy. This can help prevent them from sagging or shifting, which can cause pain and complications. If you had a C-section, a postpartum belly wrap can also protect your incision from rubbing or pulling, which can improve wound healing and scar appearance.
Helps with posture: A postpartum belly wrap can help you maintain good posture by supporting your spine and core muscles. This can help prevent back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other problems caused by poor posture. It can also help you breathe better and deeper, which can improve your oxygen intake and energy levels.
Supports your pelvic floor: A postpartum belly wrap can offer some compression to gently hold your pelvic floor muscles in place as they recover from pregnancy and childbirth. This can help prevent urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and other issues related to pelvic floor weakness.
Supports diastasis recti: A postpartum belly wrap can also help with diastasis recti, which is the separation of the abdominal muscles that occurs during pregnancy. This condition can cause a bulge or gap in your stomach area that may not go away on its own. A postpartum belly wrap can compress and support your muscles as they move back together, which can improve your core strength and stability.
Boosts self-confidence: A postpartum belly wrap can help you feel more secure and confident in your body after giving birth. It can smooth out your silhouette, flatten your tummy, lift your bust, and enhance your curves. It can also help you fit into your pre-pregnancy clothes sooner, which can boost your mood and self-esteem.
How to Choose the Right Postpartum Belly Wrap for You
There are many types of postpartum belly wraps available on the market today, ranging from simple elastic bands to complex corsets with multiple clasps. The best one for you depends on your personal preference, budget, body type, comfort level, and recovery goals.
Some of the factors to consider when choosing a postpartum belly wrap are:
Size: A postpartum belly wrap should fit snugly but not too tightly around your abdomen. It should not cause any pain, discomfort, or difficulty breathing. You may need to measure your waist and hips before buying a wrap or follow the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. You may also need to adjust the size as you lose weight and heal.
Material: A postpartum belly wrap should be made of a breathable, soft, and stretchy fabric that can conform to your body shape and movements. It should not irritate your skin, cause allergies, or trap heat or moisture. Some wraps may have special features, such as charcoal-infused fabric that can absorb odors and bacteria, or bamboo fabric that can regulate temperature and moisture.
Style: A postpartum belly wrap should suit your style and wardrobe. It should not show under your clothes unless you want it to. It should also be easy to put on and take off, and not interfere with your daily activities or nursing. Some wraps may have different designs, such as tank tops, girdles, corsets, or belts. Some may also have different colors, patterns, or prints to match your personality.
Support: A postpartum belly wrap should provide adequate support to your muscles, organs, and incision without restricting your blood flow or movement. It should also be adjustable to fit your changing needs and preferences. Some wraps may have different levels of compression, such as light, medium, or high. Some may also have different features, such as boning, Velcro, hooks, zippers, or straps.
How to Use a Postpartum Belly Wrap Safely and Effectively
A postpartum belly wrap can be a helpful tool for your recovery after giving birth, but it is not a substitute for proper diet, exercise, and medical care. To use a postpartum belly wrap safely and effectively, you should follow these tips:
Consult your doctor: Before using a postpartum belly wrap, you should consult your doctor to make sure it is safe and suitable for you. Your doctor can advise you on when to start wearing it, how long to wear it, and how tight to wear it. Your doctor can also monitor your healing progress and alert you of any potential risks or complications.
Start gradually: You should not wear a postpartum belly wrap immediately after giving birth, as your body needs some time to adjust and heal naturally. You should wait at least a few days or weeks before wearing it, depending on your delivery method and recovery status. You should also start with a low level of compression and increase it gradually as you feel more comfortable.
Wear it correctly: You should wear a postpartum belly wrap according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. You should make sure it fits properly and covers your entire abdomen from below your breasts to above your hips. You should also make sure it does not roll up or down, bunch up or wrinkle, or dig into your skin or incision.
Limit the duration: You should not wear a postpartum belly wrap for too long at a time, as this can cause muscle weakness, skin irritation, nerve damage, blood clots, infections, or other problems. You should limit the duration to two to three hours per day1, or as recommended by your doctor. You should also take breaks throughout the day to let your skin breathe and relax your muscles.
Combine it with other methods: You should not rely on a postpartum belly wrap alone to achieve your recovery goals. You should also combine it with other methods, such as eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, getting enough rest, doing gentle exercises (with your doctor’s approval), massaging your abdomen (with your doctor’s guidance), wearing supportive underwear and bras, and seeking emotional support.
Conclusion:
A postpartum belly wrap can be a useful accessory for new moms who want to feel more supported and confident in their bodies after giving birth. It can offer various benefits, such as relieving pain, improving posture, increasing blood flow, supporting the pelvic floor and diastasis recti, and boosting self-confidence.
However, a postpartum belly wrap is not a magic solution to losing weight or healing from a C-section. It is important to choose the right one for you, use it safely and effectively, and consult your doctor before and during using it.
If you are interested in trying a postpartum belly wrap, here are some of the best ones we recommend:
https://www.bellefit.com/collections/bellefit-girdles
Buy Now, Pay Later Waist Trainer
Bellefit is the best place to find buy now pay later waist trainers. Bellefit makes premium slimming shapewear and corsets. The modern shapewear products are made from high quality fabrics to give you more comfort and support when you wear them. Thousands of happy customers have reviewed Bellefit shapewear and have seen amazing results.
Where can I Buy a good girdle online?
Bellefit has had thousands of five star reviews over the last decade, showing that they are astoundingly comfortable products that are only getting better over time. Bellefit offers a variety of different styles and sizes so that everyone can find something that suits their needs perfectly.
Why You NEED to Buy This After Birth Girdle & How To Use It
There are a lot of different ways to recover from childbirth, but one thing that everyone can agree on is that it's important to get back in shape and feel comfortable again. This is why the Bellefit Postpartum Girdle is such an amazing product for new moms. It helps you recover faster and more comfortably.
Best Rated After Birth Girdle - Buyer’s Guide
Let’s face it, after birth our bellies are not the same as they were before the baby. Some of us have stretch marks and some of us have new curves and some of us have a little of both. No matter what your particular after-baby body situation, you probably have some things you’d like to change about it. You might think about how to get rid of the belly fat that’s been hanging around for months now, or maybe you’re ready to rock some new curves. A good way to do this may be by buying an after birth girdle.
While it’s true that many women would rather not be seen in public while wearing an after birth girdle, there are other options available online that can fulfill your needs without drawing too much attention to your figure while still helping you look your best. The key is knowing where to look, especially when you consider the range in price and quality you can expect when shopping online. At first glance, it can seem daunting to sort through the thousands of maternity stores that offer an array of products and services, but if you know what you’re looking for and how to find it, these stores can actually make shopping online a breeze. Here is a girdle buyer’s guide with some tips on how to find the right one:
Your Guide to Buying an After Birth Girdle Online
What is an After Birth Girdle?
An afterbirth girdle is a garment used to support a woman’s lower abdominal and pelvic area. After she has had a baby, the muscles in her abdomen are less stretchy than before, which can lead to feelings of weakness when doing activities that require this area to stretch or move. A post-birth girdle helps reinforce the muscles by adding firmness, and it can also aid in speeding up healing.
What are the benefits of a postpartum girdle?
A postpartum girdle is a type of garment that helps women who have given birth to regain their shape more quickly. It works by pulling the abdomen and lower back inwards and upwards so that the woman can get back to her normal activities sooner—and with less discomfort.
The two main purposes of the postpartum girdle are to:
Reduce swelling and fluid retention
Provide support to the lower back and abdominal muscles
How Does It Do This?
First, it compresses the abdomen, which causes it to contract. This reduces swelling, as well as a decreased feeling of heaviness in the abdomen. Then, it supports the abdominal muscles and lower back muscles, making them more taut and strong. This helps to prevent any injuries or aches from those areas. The combination of these two things helps to relieve pressure on the abdominal wall, which eases discomfort in that area. The increased muscle strength also allows for more efficient movement of everything from the stomach to the legs.
Here are some other benefits of using a girdle:
A smoother torso will make any outfit you wear look better
You will be able to wear your pre-pregnancy clothes again
Better posture—your back will be straighter and less curved
Postpartum skin can benefit from the compression of a girdle
When can you start wearing a girdle after birth?
After birth, it is best to start wearing your Bellefit Girdle as soon as you get home from the hospital. Typically 3-4 days after giving birth. The Bellefit Girdle can be worn right after giving birth but we recommend once you leave so that when the nurse or doctor comes in to check on you after birth, you won't have to remove the girdle so often. Always check with your doctor before wearing the girdle as each birth is different.
How to Buy an After Birth Girdle Online
Choosing a girdle can be difficult, and these days it’s not always made easier because there are so many options out there. Do you pick an over-the-belly, waist-shaper style? Or maybe you opt for a high-waist model with control panels down the front and back? You could even go with a panty-girdle combination or one that’s designed to slim your thighs at the same time.
These all have their pros and cons, but before you shop for the style that will work for you, there are a couple of things to consider: Do you want your torso to be completely smoothed out or do you want a little more definition? The smooth styles will give you a smoother look overall, but they don’t really define anything which can make your silhouette appear more boxy than it might need to be. Some people like this look because it makes it easier to wear tailored clothing; others feel like it makes them look frumpy. If you want something that will give you a little more definition, then besides outlining your waistline, you’ll want something that also smooths out your midsection. Look at the different options available and consider what type of look you’re interested in.
How do I choose a girdle?
The first thing you’ll have to do when shopping for a girdle is determine your size. For this, look at the sizing charts for each brand. The next thing you need to consider is your level of comfort. You may want to wear a girdle every day, or only occasionally, or just on special occasions like weddings. If you are going to wear it often, you should buy something that is comfortable enough to wear every day. If it’s just for special occasions, choose something that can be worn on those occasions but which can also be easily removed when needed.
You may also have different needs depending on what kind of clothing you plan on wearing while wearing your girdle. For example, if you’re planning on wearing jeans with your girdle, get something that has more flexibility than one designed for formal attire.
How do I know my girdle size?
To choose the best girdle for your waist, you’ll need to consider two things: how tight you want the girdle to fit, and how high or low you want the waistband of the girdle to sit. If you’re wearing a corset-style girdle, you decide how tight it feels based on how many hooks you fasten at the back; if it’s a longline style, there will be no hooks and thus no way to adjust the tightness. The waistband of a corset-style girdle will sit lower than that of a longline style, but both styles slim your waist and flatten your tummy.
If you’re wearing a high-waist style, that means that the band will sit higher than the natural waist (the part where your torso meets your pelvis). A high-waist style is most commonly worn with an overbust corset or longline bra underneath (though some people choose to wear them without another layer underneath).
Knowing your girdle size can be the difference between a smooth, slimming fit and an ill-fitting, uncomfortable nightmare. To accurately measure your waist, you’ll need a soft tape measure and some help from another person.
If you’re doing this solo, you can use a piece of string to trace around your waist. Then use that as a guide to wrap the string around your waist so you can see how many inches there are before it overlaps.
To make sure you’re measuring correctly:
Breathe out, relax your muscles, and make sure the tape is parallel with the floor (not curving in or out). If it’s not parallel with the floor, then it could be too loose or too tight. If you can’t get it parallel with the floor, keep trying until you find your sweet spot.
Measure across where your pants usually sit on your hips; not where they currently sit, since pants stretch over time.
The band measurement should be snug—but not uncomfortably tight—when you’re standing up straight. This measurement will probably be different from your pants size because it’s taken at a different point on your body (not around your hips), but should still be close to that number.
Best Beginner Postpartum Girdle
Supporting a new mommy’s core after birth is important in her recovery. However, a Corset can be uncomfortable and even painful to wear—until now! The Bellefit Corset is here to ease those concerns and make supporting your belly and back easier.
Bellefit Postpartum Girdle Corset
The Bellefit Corset offers the core support a new mother needs while also providing comfort. The elastic material is smooth and stays in place throughout the day. It’s easy to take on and off with a front row of hook-and-eye closures. The material won’t pinch or dig into the skin. The wide back panel helps stabilize your shoulder blades, giving you more control over your abdominal muscles.
The Bellefit Corset is versatile for all body types! It can be adjusted to offer the most comfortable fit with a front row of hook-and-eye closures. Moving around following a C-Section or natural birth is effortless in this undergarment. Wear the Bellefit Corset to support your belly and back 24/7.
Best Girdle That is Invisible Under Clothing
Maternity support girdles help with pelvic and torso support during pregnancy and labor. They can help increase comfort and mobility as you prepare for delivery, reduce back pain and swelling during pregnancy, and help ease the transition from pregnancy to postpartum recovery by providing gentle abdominal compression. In fact, many doctors recommend using one to improve posture during pregnancy, making it easier to relieve back and abdominal pain and help prepare for delivery.
Bellefit Girdle Pull-up
Bellefit’s Girdle Pull-Up is a great girdle that disappears under your clothes to give you a smooth appearance. It has no closures and is only for Natural Birth postpartum support and compression only. This girdle has been designed without hooks and zippers, so it’s easy to put on and pull up over a post-baby belly needing extra TLC. This girdle comfort-fits the body with its compression panels that smooth out belly bulges and back support panels to protect and support the lower back. It also stabilizes the back, making it possible to do daily tasks such as stretching, reaching, and lifting with great ease.
Best Girdle for Firm Compression
Bellefit Postpartum Girdle with Size Zipper
The Bellefit Girdle with Zipper has anti-pinch protection and padded hook-and-eye closures. It helps your swelling go down after delivering a baby. Core support can be a challenge, but not with this undergarment. The Bellefit Girdle with Zipper improves posture while compressing swollen areas of the body in need of fast healing. Invest in a girdle that delivers measurable results by reducing your waistline postpartum.
Best Rated Girdles Available to Buy at Bellefit
The good news is that there are plenty of great girdles at Bellefit. We specialize in girdles of all sizes and shapes. The first step in finding the best one for you is knowing what kind of shape you’re looking for—there are different shapes and styles (and different names) for both the shaper and the top half, which can make it hard to know what exactly you want. That’s why we found some great examples to help you decide.
Bellefit is a company that stands out from many others because of the way they approach their product. They don’t just want to make a girdle; they want to make the best girdle possible. They’re designed in a way that not only helps you look better but also feel better while wearing it. This is because it has been specially designed to be breathable. This means that you won’t have to worry about sweating too much or feeling uncomfortable while wearing it. To make for an overall comfortable fit that doesn’t pinch or dig into your skin.
Bellefit.com is a company that is dedicated to making women healthy and comfortable in their own skin. They have a wide range of products, from girdles to waist trainers. The primary goal of Bellefit is to help women get back in shape after pregnancy or a weight loss program. Some of the many things that make them special are:
They carry the highest quality products
They offer free shipping on all postpartum products
Their customer service is top-notch and they are always here to help customers with any issues that arise.
Postpartum Waist Cinchers and Waist Trainers: Benefits, Differences, and Why You Should Use Them
During pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes. And after delivery, the recovery process can take a while. For many women, labor and delivery can also result in a C-section or other complications that slow down recovery time. Fortunately, there are some options that provide excellent support and promote faster healing and relief from pain.
The different brands and types of postpartum girdles can be confusing. Let’s examine the benefits of postpartum waist cinchers and trainers, the differences, and which type might work best for you.
The Benefits of Postpartum Waist Supports
There are many types and styles of postpartum waist supports, but many doctors agree that these garments can offer many benefits, including:
Pain reduction and relief
Helping you be more active safely and comfortably
Promoting incision or scar healing
Support for diastasis recti
Improved blood flow
Better posture
While many garments can offer some or all of these benefits, not all are created equal. In addition, there are many terms for similar items, which can add to the confusion. For example, you may have heard of a faja shaper or a faja waist trainer. In Spanish, faja originally referred to a sash worn around the waist. However, for many, the terms ‘faja’ or ‘fajas post parto’ have come to mean girdle, or specifically a postpartum girdle.
Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of a waist cincher.
The Benefits of a Waist Cincher
Waist cinchers can be beneficial for women who are postpartum as well as women who are looking for an immediate cinching silhouette. These garments apply gentle compression to the abdominal area, reducing your waist size. Many cinchers are designed to be worn under clothing to provide a smoother, cinched waist.
The Benefits of a Waist Trainer
Like a waist cincher, waist trainers support the abdomen with compression. These garments are often similar in design to waist cinchers and can make it easier to get active during your postpartum recovery. In addition to this support, waist trainers can have long-term effects on the appearance of your waist if you wear your waist trainer or faja consistently. And finally, many women love faja waist training or even opt for a waist trainer vest for the posture benefits. Whether you’re recovering from pregnancy or want to correct a slouch, a waist trainer can help straighten the spine and support the abdominal muscles as you learn to sit and stand straighter.
The Differences Between a Waist Cincher and Waist Trainer
While many use the terms interchangeably, there are some key differences between waist trainers and cinchers. For example, cinchers provide immediate cinching but generally aren’t worn for long-term changes—once you take a cincher off, the slimming effect is gone.
Another important difference is in the type of material. Waist trainers often use a material called Powernet instead of or in addition to latex. Cinchers are often primarily latex. And waist trainers usually incorporate more boning than cinchers.
Other design differences may influence your decision to go with a cincher or a trainer. Waist cinchers can be easier to put on and take off and may even be a single piece with no closures. However, waist trainers tend to have zippers, Velcro, or multiple rows of hooks that allow you to adjust the tightness of the garment. And if you’re looking for a plus-size waist trainer, having the ability to adjust the trainer as you make progress can make your trainer a more effective tool.
Can Wearing Waist Trainers and Waist Cinchers Help You Lose Postpartum Weight?
For many women, both garments are valuable tools that can help promote weight loss. In addition, trainers and cinchers can help improve self-confidence and self-image. After delivery or even abdominal surgery, your body may look very different from what you’re used to seeing. Many struggle with this difference, and it can affect their self-esteem. A waist cincher can give an immediate slimming effect under clothes and may also feel uncomfortable when you eat past fullness. Similarly, trainers can feel uncomfortable when too tight and help remind you of your goals.
Waist trainers are also great at improving circulation and warming the abdomen, which can help reduce water retention. And by supporting the muscles and organs during your recovery, you can move and eventually exercise with less pain and discomfort.
Anyone Can Benefit from Waist Support
Whether you are searching for a waist trainer for plus-size women or a simple cincher that is invisible under your favorite outfit, there are tons of options, colors, and materials at Bellefit. You can find a waist support garment that fits your body type, lifestyle, and goals. And as your goals and needs change, you’ll find a garment at Bellefit that’ll support you no matter where you are on your journey.
5 Exercises to Gradually Re-Strengthen Your Core after Giving Birth
Pregnancy demands a lot from your body. It's not uncommon for many women to experience a significant loss of core strength post-pregnancy.
The physiology of growing a baby is not kind to your midsection. Your muscles and connective tissue stretch to accommodate your baby, compromising the tone and strength in your torso.
When most people think of their core muscles, they picture the six-pack abs (rectus abdominis), but your core includes multiple muscles that wrap around your torso from the top of your ribs cage and include your pelvic floor.
These muscles work together to protect your internal organs, stabilize the spine and pelvis, and powers your mobility. Your core muscles are also what connects your upper body and lower body, and it's activated in all exercises.
In this article, we'll talk about common signs of a weak core and 5 safe exercises for the postpartum body that help you rebuild your strength to relieve pain.
Table Of Contents
Signs Of A Weak Core
Back Pain
Poor Posture With A Tendency To Slouch
Anterior Pelvic Tilt
You Need Assistance Standing Up
You Find It Difficult To Balance
Is It Safe To Do Ab Exercises After Giving Birth?
5 Gentle Postpartum Exercises To Increase Core Strength
1. Deep Belly Breathing
2. Pelvic Bridge
3. Bent Leg Raises
4. Horizontal Forearm Plank
5. Side Plank
Video Guide Of The Five Exercises Plus Two Bonus Exercises
Bonus Exercise Tip: Wear An Abdominal Binder
Signs Of A Weak Core
Back Pain
One of the functions of the core is to support the spine. If these muscles aren't strong enough to support your spine, you risk straining and overworking other muscle groups. Lower back aches can flare up while you're sitting or standing for a prolonged time.
Poor Posture With A Tendency To Slouch
Is it challenging to maintain good posture when you're sitting or standing?
While a weakened core isn't the only contributing factor to poor posture, having a strong core can significantly improve your posture. Bad posture can have negative impacts on the rest of your body over time by messing up its natural alignment leading to pain and injury.
Anterior Pelvic Tilt
Pregnancy weakens the core, especially the pelvic floor and the abdominal muscles, which can affect the posture of the lower spine. Because of these muscle groups quickly become compromised during pregnancy, it's common to see an anterior pelvic tilt in women post-pregnancy, where your pelvis tilts forward, causing a c-curve dip in your lower back.
If the anterior pelvic tilt is not corrected, it can lead to lower back and hip pain or injury.
You Need Assistance Standing Up
Because our core is foundational to our trunk movements, everyday tasks like getting out of bed or getting up from your chair can be a challenge if you lack the core strength.
If you find yourself always reaching for a brace to hold on to when you go to stand up, strengthening your core is the answer.
You Find It Difficult To Balance
Balance and core strength are intimately linked because your core's job is to stabilize the body. If you find it challenging to balance on one foot or uneven terrain, this may be a result of a weak core.
By toning the core, you can significantly improve your balance and increase your athletic performance over time. After all, the foundation of all movements stems from your trunk.
Do all these signs sound familiar after giving birth? To new moms, this may seem very overwhelming. Luckily, you can regain your core strength back gradually with gentle yet effective, targeted exercises.
Is It Safe To Do Ab Exercises After Giving Birth?
Before you get started on ab workouts, be sure to get the green light from your doctor. The last thing you want to do is cause an injury that slows down your postpartum recovery, especially if you have diastasis recti or had a c-section delivery.
Diastasis Recti
While c-section deliveries are common, it's still major abdominal surgery that will require a more extended recovery period than vaginal birth. The last thing you want to do is compromise your incision by straining your body before its ready to exercise.
Toning your core is a lot more than focusing on your abdominal muscles — you want to approach your stabilizer muscles as a whole to strengthen the connective tissue and increase your range of motion.
The following post-pregnancy workouts are an excellent introduction to restrengthening your postpartum belly.
Start with short sets of 1 or 2 and 10 reps of each exercise and work your way to 3 or 4 sets as you regain strength.
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5 Gentle Postpartum Exercises To Increase Core Strength
1. Deep Belly Breathing
Deep Belly Breathing
This exercise targets your diaphragm, which sits at the base of the chest and is mainly responsible for expanding the chest cavity for breathing.
The diaphragm works with your abdominal muscles and pelvic floor to provide stability to the trunk of your body.
Let's walk you through this exercise:
Lie comfortably on your back on a yoga mat or towel, with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor
Take a long slow breath through your nose to fill up your lungs
Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly button to feel the chest and belly expand with air
With control, exhale through your mouth and feel your stomach and chest sink closer to your spine as you expel all that air
Start with a count of four for your inhales, pause at the top of your breath, and exhale for four breaths — You can slowly build on the lengths of your breaths with practice
This exercise is gentle on the postpartum body and offers many benefits to your overall health, including:
Reduces stress and anxiety levels by lowering cortisol levels
Improves lung capacity
Strengthens abdominal and pelvic floor function
Lowers heart rate
Lowers blood pressure
2. Pelvic Bridge
Pelvic Bridge
The pelvic bridge and the deep belly breathing exercise will be familiar to you if you've done yoga before.
The bridge or setu banda Sarvangasana is a foundational backbend yoga posture that strengthens the lower back and hip muscles and lengthens the abdominals.
We'll walk you through how to activate the targeted muscles correctly:
On a yoga mat, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor (you should be able to graze the heels of your foot with your fingertips)
With your arms extended at your side and your palms flat on the floor, lift your pelvis towards the ceiling and peel your lower spine off the floor
Your shoulders neck and head should remain grounded on the floor and keep your chin close to your chest
Avoid having your knees splay out in this position, dry to draw them in together — if you have a yoga block, you can place it between your legs and squeeze to activate your glutes and hip flexors to lift your pelvis higher
If you have the flexibility in your shoulders, you can bring your hands to a bind behind you and inch your shoulders closer to the midline of your body
Hold this position for three full breaths, and with an exhale, gently roll your body back to the floor and repeat
The bridge pose is a gentle exercise to lengthen and strengthen the muscles that support the spine. It's an excellent exercise to start the day because activating the spine feels energizing and rejuvenating.
3. Bent Leg Raises
Bent Leg Raises
Bent leg raises can start to feel spicy for your lower abdominals and hip flexors, so only start this exercise with the approval of your doctor.
By targeting the lower abdominals and hip flexors, you'll alleviate lower back pain that tends to compensate when these muscles aren't strong enough to support you.
The straight leg raise variation of this exercise demands a lot from your lower abdominal muscles, so this modification is an excellent way to build up to the full movement to avoid injury.
On a mat, lay on your back with your arms by your sides and your knees bent and feet flat on the floor
Engage your core by drawing your belly button in towards your spine and raise one leg towards your chest
Bring your leg back to the original position and switch legs
Don't rush this movement. You'll get more benefits by slowing down raising and lowering the legs to engage the stabilizing muscles
When you're ready to progress in this exercise, try lifting and lowering both legs at the same time
As you tone these muscles, you'll eventually work your way to straight-leg raises for a killer ab-exercise
4. Horizontal Forearm Plank
Horizontal Plank
This exercise is one of the most effective exercises for building full-body strength and toning the upper back and shoulders. It's the ultimate total body-weight exercise to build strength.
Don't be discouraged if you find this posture challenging to hold — We'll walk you through a modification to start that you can build up to the full progression.
Start in a tabletop position — your shoulders directly over your wrists and your hips in line with your knees
Now, come onto parallel forearms for more stability
Next, walk your knees back to form a straight line from your knees to your neck
Keep your belly button pulling towards your spine and avoid your butt sticking up towards the ceiling — you want to keep that straight line from your knees to your neck
You should feel your shoulders, abdominal muscles, and pelvic floor engaged in this exercise
Hold for 30 seconds and don't forget to breathe
Challenge yourself by coming off your knees for three breaths, you can always return to the knees bent position its too straining on your body
When you're comfortable staying in the full posture off your knees, try holding this posture for 1 minute
If you have diastasis recti, you should avoid this exercise as it can increase the visible coning of your abdominals. You should reach out to a physiotherapist who specializes in treating postpartum diastasis recti for a more personalized exercises.
5. Side Plank
Side Planks
The side plank is another effective full-body exercise and an excellent complement to the forearm plank. This posture tones your obliques (love handles) and shoulders.
We'll get into the modification and the progressions of this exercise.
Lie on your side with your legs fully extended and your forearm supporting your upper body (make sure your shoulder is in line with your elbow)
Raise your hips off the floor until your body forms a straight line from your shoulders to your ankles
Imagine your body is between two panes of glass — avoid hunching over your shoulders and expand through your chest
If you're feeling strong enough, lift one leg towards the ceiling
Hold the side plank position for 30 seconds
The next progression is coming off your forearm and balancing on your hand
This is a tricky pose for balance, so our tip is to focus your gaze on an unmoving object and to remember to breathe evenly
Video Guide Of The Five Exercises Plus Two Bonus Exercises
Bonus Exercise Tip: Wear An Abdominal Binder
Binding your abdomen reminds your abdominal muscles how to behave and positions your spine in proper alignment.
Choose an abdominal binder designed for women's postpartum recovery. Your waist trainer or postpartum girdle should be made from comfortable, breathable fabric and provide high-grade medical compression.
It should fit snugly to squeeze in your belly and straighten your spine for good posture, but make sure it's not too tight that it restricts your breathing.
Wearing an abdominal binder provides your core with extra stability and eases strain off of your back and pelvis. Moms find that they were able to get to their abdominal exercises sooner wearing a postpartum girdle, and it made their workouts much more comfortable.
Bellefit girdles are FDA-approved and come in eight styles from sizes XS – 3XL
Post-pregnant moms swear by their Bellefit abdominal binders for helping them regain their pre-pregnancy bodies. Our postpartum garments are FDA-approved and doctor recommended to help women speed their post-pregnancy comfort in style.
If you want to get toned abs after having a baby, get to these abdominal exercises as soon as you get the green light from your doctor with the help of a high-quality postpartum girdle. Training, along with a nutrient-dense diet, and stress management, will get you back to your pre-pregnancy body.
View Girdles
Easing Back into Fitness After Giving Birth
Easing your way back into fitness can look different from another person’s journey. Many mamas active before their pregnancy and even during, assume that after a short break, they’ll be able to get back into the gym or their routine without any significant changes.
Postpartum Belly Binding: Why Belly Wraps and Postpartum Girdles are Not the Same
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!”
You're Doing Just Fine, Mama: Mental Health Tips for New Parents
Becoming a new parent is one of the most rewarding and challenging things ever. And many people worry that they're making mistakes or that other people are handling it better than them.
New Mothers in California: Postpartum Recovery After Birth + Resources
After 40-ish long weeks of pregnancy, you’re officially a mommy! But your postpartum journey is just beginning… and can last up to eight months. Between your new baby and your postpartum recovery, you’ve got a lot on your plate!
We understand how impossible daily life can feel for new moms like you. We’ve put together this guide to help new mothers in California have the easiest postpartum recovery possible.
Important Statistics for New Mothers in California
Are you feeling huge pressure to stay up on relevant statistics? Most new moms feel this way… but don’t panic! We’ve gathered the most recent data new mothers in California should know.
In 2020, 30.5% of live births in California were cesarean deliveries. It’s much more common than most people think!
Since 2018, new moms have had widespread access to maternity care across California. Modoc, Glenn, Colusa, Sierra, Alpine, and Madera counties are the only counties with poor maternity care. If you’re in one of these areas, plan to travel farther for care.
The most common cause of infant deaths in California is birth defects, making up just .09% of all infant deaths. Luckily, most birth defects are detected during ultrasounds early on.
What is the safest age to have a baby?
A recent study from the University of Seoul found 25 is the safest age to have your first baby. But every woman’s body is unique, and the safest age for you may be different. Consult your doctor for more information.
How many weeks do you get for baby bonding in California?
Eligible new parents get 12 weeks for baby bonding in California, under the FMLA and CFRA. Contact your employer or read this document from the California government for more details.
Postpartum and After Birth Recovery Guide
As you heal after birth, you can expect to have some discomfort. No matter what kind of a birth experience you’ve had, you should spend at least the first six weeks resting after giving birth.
Your body has spent many long months being stretched, strained, and stressed! Giving yourself this time to recover is absolutely crucial. Following your doctor’s postpartum recovery instructions is necessary, too.
You’re probably wondering “How can I improve my recovery after birth?” The absolute best way to support a quick and healthy postpartum recovery is to be prepared! Squaring away your must-haves in advance makes the post-birth experience far more enjoyable for you and your baby.
For your postpartum girdle, you have lots of options. Our Bodysuit Corset has maximum adjustability thanks to adjustable front hooks, no boning, plus removable/adjustable shoulder straps!
Or maybe you’re really looking forward to getting back into exercise after your body heals. New moms like you love our High-Waisted Postpartum Support Leggings. These offer graduated compression and won’t leave any seam marks on your skin. Plus they’re chafe-resistant and made of cool-touch fabric. The best part? Deep pockets!
Do you need more than 1 of the must-haves mentioned above? Save some money when you bundle, like with our abdominal binder and activewear leggings combo deal.
Did you know Bellefit supportive postpartum girdles and waist trainers are FDA-approved postpartum support products? They’re the easiest, safest, and most comfortable way to fast-track your postpartum recovery!
Click here to use our Girdle Style Finder to find the perfect postpartum girdle for you.
By purchasing your necessities in advance, you’ll save yourself the added stress. Bringing your baby home and accepting your need to recover will take up a lot of your mental capacity early on. Do your shopping now so you can be even more present during those precious early days with your new bundle of joy.
What should you not do after giving birth?
Don’t strain yourself physically. Don’t hide your struggles with returning to daily life, otherwise, you may exacerbate your baby blues. Don’t neglect your nutrition or hydration, as your body needs food and water to heal.
Most importantly, don’t do it alone! See our list of resources for new mothers in California and related articles below.
The Best Resources for New California Moms
There’s no doubt about it… being a new mom is intense. And you’re expected to juggle so many things! But you don’t have to do it alone. Below is a list of the most helpful resources for new moms in California.
Join a California postpartum support group:
Find your local chapter of Postpartum Support International
Find local services from Postpartum Support Center
Find an online community for postpartum recovery:
Join the Private Warrior Mom forum to discreetly discuss after birth experiences
Check out the Help for Moms community and helpline
Read about postpartum experiences from real moms like you
Get government-funded support during your postpartum journey:
Postpartum and after birth support guide from the Office on Women’s Health
Maternal mental health resources from the California Department of Public Health
How Do Waist Trainers Work? Learn How to Instantly Shape Your Waist
Starting the moment you announce your pregnancy, just about everyone you meet will have strong opinions about everything you do. From your diet to your birth plan to your postpartum recovery, you have lots of questions… and lots of people trying to convince you of their opinion.
Undoubtedly, one of those questions is “How do waist trainers work?” quickly followed by “And are postpartum waist training corsets painful to use?”
While you’ve probably heard many different answers to these questions, today we’re using science, research, and real testimonials to teach you all about postpartum waist trainers… and how they instantly shape your waist with minimal effort.
How Do Waist Trainers Work According to Research and Science?
There’s no doubt about it—pregnancy takes a toll on your body. Even if you deliver naturally and don’t have an incision that needs healing, birthing your baby (or babies!) commonly results in a few health conditions.
Your body doesn’t just change during pregnancy… it changes after you give birth, too. To learn more about these postpartum changes and what to expect, click here.
The most common is abdominal muscle separation, known as Diastasis Recti. While daily abdominal exercises can help mend the separation, adding a postpartum waist trainer will give you far more support in your daily life.
If you want to comfortably carry your child and lift objects after birth, a Bellefit postpartum girdle will help you the most. Bellefit is an FDA-registered medical device brand for maternity and postpartum support products. We’ve always got your back… and your belly.
Scientifically speaking, wearing a waist trainer puts constant and direct—yet comfortable and supportive—pressure on your diaphragm and pelvic floor. Wearing one daily can help your uterus return to its normal size faster than it would without. This allows you to wear your regular clothes and feel like yourself again very quickly.
Bellefit waist trainers give moms like you the core support needed to heal quickly--and prevent new injuries—so you can get back to your life faster. The best part? You’ll shape your waist while you heal!
But how do they work if you’ve had a c-section? Fortunately, a postpartum girdle or corset waist trainer is perfect for supporting your c-section recovery. Wearing a waist trainer will keep your sutures from breaking, help prevent evisceration while you heal, and stop your incision from getting irritated—or worse, infected.
And you’ll notice the instant shape in your waist once you start waist training.
Whether you deliver your baby naturally or deliver via c-section, you can rest assured knowing this incredible undergarment has promoted safe, efficient, and effective postpartum recovery for decades.
Waist Trainers are just the beginning of your shopping process. To learn more about the benefits of wearing a postpartum waist trainer, click here.
What Moms are Saying about Their Bellefit Waist Trainers?
Bellefit waist trainers have given moms everywhere a speedy and safe postpartum journey.
Gaelle M. said her Bellefit waist trainer was the biggest help during her postpartum recovery. “I have been wearing it since I got home from the hospital… It really helped me reshape my body and it’s actually really comfortable!” She wears it every day under her regular clothes.
Kezia G. told us it was important to her to be gentle on her postpartum body. After her first child, she rushed her recovery—before she knew about Bellefit. But after the birth of this baby, she opted to focus on a gentle recovery with a Bellefit waist trainer.
Kezia’s final verdict? “I have noticed that I have less back pain and swelling,” in addition to the instant shaping of her waist!
Tamika R. talked with us about the stigma surrounding waist trainers… “As if needing one means you’re inadequate because you weren’t able to get back [to a] flat stomach overnight!” It’s true, many women feel ashamed of purchasing a postpartum girdle. But it’s completely normal and even helps you heal faster.
Tamika also told us “I’m so grateful for convenient and effective little helpers like the Bellefit.”
Postpartum is hard enough. Ice packs, breast pumps, and nipple cream are just a few of the options that can make your journey easier and safer. We strongly believe you don’t need every product under the sun to prepare for your postpartum recovery. Check out the 8 must-haves we recommend for an easy healing process.
How To Pick the Best Waist Trainer for Your Postpartum Body
Now you know exactly how waist training works, but you still need to find the best one. The perfect waist trainer for you depends on your personal needs, preferences, and size. Bellefit waist trainers and postpartum girdles come in a wide range of sizes, closure styles, and specific benefits.
Our abdominal binders are all designed to maximize comfort and offer bathroom accessibility without you needing to remove them. Some of our waist trainers are designed specifically for c-section recoveries, while others are right for any woman’s postpartum journey.
And don’t forget… all Bellefit products are FDA-registered medical devices, so you can shop safely and confidently every time.
No matter your situation, Bellefit wants you to feel comfortable about how waist trainers work while feeling confident about the postpartum girdle you choose. Click here to view our waist trainer collection and find your perfect fit!