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

Twins occur when a woman becomes pregnant with two children from one conception. Twins are carried in the womb together and delivered at the same time. Irish twins occur when a woman has a baby within 12 months of having another child. As you can tell twins and Irish twins are very different, but that still doesn’t explain everything. Why are they called “Irish twins” if they aren’t twins? Where did the term come from? Are women even able to have children so soon after birth? What does it look like for your health and well-being to have two children so close together? In this article, we will explore the answer to those questions and more. What does the phrase Irish Twins Mean? “Irish” twins is a phrase that refers to when two children are born within 12 months of one another to the same mother. These siblings are born so close together that they are practically twins. Is it Offensive? Many people use the phrase as a way to describe the small age gap between siblings. Some people who are “Irish twins” may even use the phrase to describe themselves. However, the phrase originated as derogatory slang towards Irish Catholic people, so it is in its essence offensive. History of the term “Irish Twins” During the early 19th century when many Europeans were emigrating to the United States, the term Irish Twins became a popular derogatory slang against Irish Catholic people. The Catholic faith is the dominant faith of Ireland and therefore many people who immigrated to the U.S. from Ireland were practicing Catholics. In the Catholic faith, birth control is thought to be sinful and against the will of God. Therefore, many practicing Catholics are taught to avoid birth control. This avoidance causes many women to become pregnant soon after they give birth. Because of this, many Irish Catholic families are quite large with many children. With a large family and few work opportunities in the U.S., many of the Irish immigrants were poor. Therefore, “Irish twins” was a slur that was used to imply that a family had more children than they could support. Today, there is not a negative stigma against Irish people in the United States so many people do not think of the term as offensive. However, based on its history, it is probably wise not to use the term. Instead, you can just refer to them as siblings who are close-in-age or as closely spaced siblings. Risks of Having "Irish Twins" Recent research has discovered that becoming pregnant within six months of giving birth does lead to increased risks on the fetus. These risks include Higher chance of a premature birth Placental abruption Low birth weight Congenital disorders Maternal/Gestational anemia The precise reason for these risks is still unknown. However, researchers believe it has to do with the mother’s inability to heal properly between pregnancies. Pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding all deplete a woman’s nutrients--particularly folate. These nutrients are essential when a baby is growing, so if there are not enough of these nutrients it can lead to problems. Waiting an extended period of time between pregnancies, preferably 18-24 months after giving birth, allows your body to heal fully. Pregnancy with Irish Twins Depending on how quickly your body begins its ovulation cycle after giving birth it is possible for a woman to have two children 9.5-10 months apart. While this is possible, it is not likely. For the majority of women, their first ovulation cycle does not occur until about one month after they have given birth. In addition, the majority of healthcare workers will suggest you wait 6 weeks after birth before having intercourse. So while pregnancy with close-in-age siblings is still viable, it is becoming less popular. Spacing between your pregnancies is ultimately a choice you and your family need to make on your own. There are many reasons that a woman may choose to space her children close together. And you should not feel any shame if you want to do the same. It's ultimately up to you and your family, but there are a lot of different things that might affect the decision. Some people prefer a short time between each child because they enjoy having their children close in age and are excited to see them grow up together. Other people prefer a longer time between each because they want the first child to have more attention. The spacing between births is also affected by many different factors—such as if you have had a Cesarean section, if you have a history of miscarriage or infertility. Postpartum Recovery with Irish Twins Due to the limited amount of healing time between pregnancies, many women have a very different labor experience the second time around. With a closely spaced pregnancy, there is an increased risk that your labor will be premature and fast. While a fast labor sounds great, there are some complications that you can experience from it as well. If the contractions are coming too quickly, it can be difficult to manage the pain. Similarly, fast contractions can lead you to want to push which can cause lacerations and tears to your vagina and cervix. In addition, pregnancy hormones and breastfeeding hormones can be at odds with one another and cause problems. Some of these include Braxton-Hicks contractions and your milk drying up. Not only will your physical recovery take a toll, but your mental health may take a toll as well. Postpartum depression is common among mothers who have had closely spaced siblings. Postpartum depression is a pretty common experience for women who have given birth, but many new mothers are unaware that it can also be experienced by those who have recently had a baby after having had a previous one who was born less than two years ago. Is Raising Two Children Close In Age Considered Irish Twins? Postpartum recovery is a struggle in general and raising a toddler at the same time can be difficult. You will have to deal with twice the number of diapers, twice the amount of supplies, navigate two separate schedules, and deal with different developmental struggles. That being said, raising "Irish twins" is a great journey and a wonderful experience. They will have a friend for life and as they grow older the journey will continue to change. Raising two children close in age will come with its struggles but it is all worth it. Postpartum Recovery of Irish Twins As you know, having a baby requires special care for the recovery of the mother's body. Having Irish twins is no exception. Having two babies within a short time of each other, whether that's less than a year or even just a few months, puts a lot of strain on the body. After giving birth to your first baby, you're still experiencing all the hormonal changes and physical recovery from labor and delivery, but now you have another being growing inside you. The result is that the body goes through the typical changes of pregnancy without having fully recovered from the birth of the previous pregnancy. The most common issues are fatigue and nausea. With one baby, it may not be a problem for you to go about your daily routine and keep up with your usual activities. But when there's another baby inside you, everything is harder: work, playtime with your first child, even sitting up in bed. You can expect to feel exhausted much more often than before—not tired while you're taking care of one child but tired all day long because your body has to work hard to take care of two children at once. Here are some tips for recovery after giving birth to 2 babies born less than 12 months apart. Food Tips for Mothers of Irish Twins Women, and the nature of their bodies, are designed to ensure the survival of children. When a mother has another baby a short time after having her first, she has not had a sufficient period of time to recover the essential vitamins, minerals and fats lost during pregnancy. This means that in pregnancy while the first baby is receiving optimal nutrients for development during breastfeeding, the fetus may not be receiving adequate nutrition. Likewise, when the second baby is born, nutrients may not be sufficient to nourish both babies. To avoid this, it is important for the mother to eat a nutrient-rich diet in order to feed both babies well. A nutrient-rich diet will help ensure that you are providing your body with all of the vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients it needs to boost your fertility and increase your chances of delivering healthy babies. But what exactly does a nutrient-rich diet look like? And how can you make sure you're providing your body with everything it needs? While the placenta is working hard to supply the baby with nutrients, it is important for the mother to eat a nutrient-rich diet in order to feed both babies well. She may need to eat a special diet and eat more but always controlling portions and especially the nutrients contained in each food. High protein foods can be good choices as they contain amino acids which help build muscle and tissue. Calcium is also essential for bone health and should be included in the diet as much as possible. Dairy products, dark leafy greens, tomatoes, beans, fish, nuts, seeds and fruits all contain calcium. Proper nutrition will help the mother regain all the nutrients she has lost during the pregnancies and births and help her stay strong and healthy to care for her Irish twins. Mental Health Care for Mothers of Irish Twins It can take several years for a woman to recover from a pregnancy. A lot of women find themselves struggling with physical, emotional and financial changes that last for a long time after the birth. There are steps you can take to minimize the effects of pregnancy on your life, though. Take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. It's important for you to recognize what symptoms are normal and what ones might be signs of a problem, like needing medical attention. And it's also important to try to stay as healthy as possible while pregnant and while breastfeeding so that you can get back up on your feet faster after the baby arrives. Also, it's really important to stay in touch with those who matter most in your life—your partner and family members—throughout this time so you don't feel isolated or alone during your recovery. The physical exhaustion that comes with having a baby, from birth to care such as feeding, carrying and diapering is unavoidable. Having Irish twins means even more fatigue as these activities must be done with two babies. Physically, the mother's body is undergoing wear and tear. However, it should be noted that emotional exhaustion can also be a complication if not properly treated. Postpartum depression is a condition that requires professional help. One really important recommendation is for the mother of Irish twins to see a mental health professional to help her through the process of caring for one baby while she is expecting the next. Or, once she has had both children. Creating Routines In order for a mother to have a proper recovery after giving birth twice in a short period of time, she needs to get a good night's sleep. Although it sounds a bit complicated with two babies in your care, it can help if you create strict routines for performing day-to-day activities. Having children so close together requires a military-style schedule. The parents' activities should have scheduling rules that will benefit the babies' development. Parents who want to do more than just survive their children's infancy and toddlerhood can make their lives easier by establishing a schedule for sleep. By keeping it consistent, parents can get both children to sleep at the same time and use that time for other household activities—whether it's doing housework, going out with friends or even starting a new hobby. A healthy amount of sleep is important for everyone in the house, but as parents know, getting a young child to sleep is not always easy. They're easily distracted by noises in the house—a ticking clock, a refrigerator running, even a conversation between adults or siblings. But if parents establish a set time and place for sleep, they can help their children be less distracted and get the rest they need. It might seem counterintuitive to have all the children in the house sleeping at the same time, but actually having everyone in bed at 8 p.m. will give your family its own time away from everyday activities. This is an opportunity to relax on the couch, get some chores done or have an adult conversation with your spouse or family members. Children who have a greater age difference between them, have different schedules and habits. In theory it is more complicated to align the schedules of both children. On the other hand, having Irish twins can be easier when it comes to instilling schedules in them. With this, the mother will be able to have time to rest and dedicate it to her personal care. Exercise Tips for Irish Twin Mothers Having two births within such a short time of each other is comparable to a multiple birth whether it is vaginal or cesarean. It will take much longer for a mother's body to return to its original size and shape. We are talking about your body not having recovered from one pregnancy when you have already entered another. You must be patient with yourself and your body and follow all medical indications. You have probably gained more weight after going through two continuous pregnancies. Your back, knees and hips are not in the best condition so you must take it one step at a time. When the doctor says so, you may be able to start some exercises in order to gradually regain your body's mobility. Walking is a good physical activity to start with. The advantage of this exercise is that you can do it with your family and your beautiful Irish twins. @carakuulei Baby 3 due Nov 2022! 3 babies under 2, all 11 months apart…LET’S FREAKING GOOOOOOO!!! 👶🏽👶🏼👶🏻#babiesoftiktok #christiantiktok #irishtwins #irishtriplets #irishtwinmama #irishtripletmom #foryou #foryoupage #fyp ♬ original sound - Cara Postpartum Products for Irish Twin Mothers It is very likely that the belly and breasts of a woman who has gone through two pregnancies and two continuous breast feedings are sagging. This can affect the mother's self-esteem and she may become unmotivated or depressed. Initially, you may not be able to do an exercise routine that will allow you to tone your body. However, we can recommend that you look for recommended postpartum garments. Some people might be surprised to learn that what they're wearing on their body could have an effect on their mental state. A postpartum girdle is a type of undergarment made with medical-grade materials to help the wearer recover from pregnancy and the effects of childbirth. A postpartum girdle is a tool used to help your body return to its original shape after pregnancy. It helps you get back in shape by providing compression, helping your postpartum body return to its original size as it recovers from childbirth. Postpartum girdles are available in many different styles, from undergarments that flatten the stomach and provide back support to full-body garments that look like tights. In addition to getting the body back into its original pre-pregnancy form (or getting close), girdles can also help with other postpartum concerns. Some are breathable, which is helpful for women who experience swelling in their legs and feet from retaining fluid. Since they fit like a second skin, many women report feeling less soreness in their abdominal muscles thanks to the support they provide. The corset-like garment also helps with postpartum recovery by providing abdominal support during activities such as breast feeding and walking. If you decide to purchase one, it is important to select one that will fit your body type and be comfortable enough for everyday wear. Most importantly, when purchasing one of these postpartum girdles, it is important to read reviews from others who have already used these garments to ensure that you purchase the best option for your needs. Be sure to purchase one that will provide you with ample support, as well as comfort. There are also bras that are designed for new moms so they can regain their firmness. On the other hand, the use of firming creams is also a good option to help your skin recover from having Irish twins. Takeaways Irish twins refer to siblings who are under 12 months apart in age. The phrase is an outdated slang term that can be offensive to some people, so it is best to refer to them as something else. If you've given birth to two children close in age, chances are you've got a few physical challenges to overcome. Between the demands of caring for a newborn and your already-tired body, it can be tough to get back into shape after childbirth—but that doesn't mean it's impossible! By investing in a good postpartum girdle (and other postpartum shapewear) you can feel better equipped to make it through your second pregnancy and come out the other side in good health. A postpartum girdle is worn under clothes and applies gentle pressure around the waist, abdomen, hips and buttocks in order to provide support and help to realign the body after pregnancy. Most are made of firm fabric with fastening mechanisms on the sides or at the back (or even both). These medical garments provide you some much-needed relief from pain by compressing the abdomen. Make parenting your two bundles of joy much easier by investing in a Bellefit postpartum girdle today. A postpartum girdle is much more comfortable than it looks—it is made out of soft material that works with your body to give it support. It's important that you use one that is adjustable, so that you can adjust it as your body changes. A lot of women don't know what size they should buy, but check out our sizing guides and instructions on how to measure yourself. Sources https://www.dictionary.com/e/slang/irish-twins/ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2708196 https://www.babygaga.com/10-dangers-of-having-irish-twins-and-5-ways-to-survive-it/ https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/twins-and-multiples/giving-birth/your-recovery.aspx

Postpartum difficulties are not often discussed. As wonderful as welcoming a new baby into the world is, it is also a very hard transition for a mother both mentally and physically. Of course, there are many more life demands that come with taking care of a newborn, but also, there are many demands and pressures that are put on your body after giving birth. After giving birth, there are different parts of a woman's body that have gone through an extreme amount of stress and change. You want to make sure that you have all the necessities ready after childbirth to ensure the most comfortable postpartum recovery. We have put together a list of some of the top must-have products to help new moms feel good, heal quickly, and get their body’s back to how they were before having a child. Must-Have Products to Ease Recovery These are eight different products we recommend using postpartum that are sure to help you with a successful recovery. 1. Maternity Maxi Pads It is extremely common for both vaginal bleeding and vaginal discharge to occur after giving birth. Typically, your body will continue to expel this discharge for several weeks after giving birth, and using Maxi pads will help ensure you stay comfortable and dry. There are several brands of Maxi Pads that are designed especially for postpartum use. Using a Maxi pad will help with any bleeding or discharge that occurs after giving birth. Using tampons or menstrual cups after giving birth is not recommended and can actually cause more damage to your healing uterus. Ensuring that you are stocked up on plenty of Maxi Pads for your return home after giving birth will help make you more comfortable and stop any unneeded embarrassing accidents. 2. Mesh Underwear In addition to having maternity pads, it is also a good idea to have several pairs of disposable underwear too. Often, especially right after childbirth, menstrual bleeding or discharge can be very heavy and may even leak through to your underwear. So the easiest thing to do is to wear disposable mesh underwear so you can throw them away after wearing them. Mesh underwear is very stretchy and breathable; they can easily fit the large maxi pad and give you at least a little more comfort. 3. Peri Rinse Bottle Using a peri rinse bottle will help you go to the bathroom more easily after giving birth. After childbirth, and more specifically if you gave birth vaginally, there are many changes that occur to the vaginal opening. Generally, your vagina will be swollen and stretched after a natural birth and will likely be very tender. The peri bottle is used to skirt warm water to the area before, during, and after urinating. Since it may be a little harder to start the process, squirting warm water in the vagina area will help you relax and start peeing. While you are peeing, if you continue to squirt the water, it will help relieve the stinging sensation some mothers experience while urinating. And then, after you are finished, you can use the rinse bottle to clean the area instead of wiping with toilet paper which may be sore. 4. Ice Pack Another ideal piece of equipment to ease your postpartum comfort is an ice pack. After childbirth, there will be a lot of swelling in your vagina, and an ice pack will help reduce some of this swelling. You can simply place the ice pack over the region, which should also help give you some pain relief as well. Applying ice to the area is extremely effective, especially within the first 24 hours after giving birth. 5. Pain Medicine After giving birth, you will likely be sore in all different places. Using an oral pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with both reducing swelling and easing your pain so that you can move around more easily. In general, both these pain relief products are safe to use after giving birth and while breastfeeding, but we recommend you talk to a doctor first before taking them. 6. Epsom Salts Having an Epsom salt bath is a great way to soothe different types of pain and popular for women healing from childbirth. You can either soak in a bath with Epsom salt or use a sitz bath that rests over the top of the toilet bowl and used to soak the perineum area for around 15 minutes. The Epsom salts should help with any aches and discomfort in that area. 7. A Postpartum Girdle After childbirth, your body has gone through many changes, and using a girdle to help recover and ease the pain is a very helpful tool. Bellefit has multiple different girls styles to choose from that may help with lower back pain and posture after giving birth. Also, wearing a girdle can help with stabilizing your pelvic floor and giving your abdominal muscles more support. 8. Donut Pillow A donut-shaped pillow is specially designed for postpartum use. They will help you sleep and rest more easily and allow you to be more comfortable after giving birth. You can use the donut pillow to sit on while propping yourself up and easing the pressure on your perineum. Also, you can use it to prop up your baby while you are holding them or breastfeeding them so they are not putting too much pressure on your abdomen. Be Prepared For the past 9 months, you and your family have been awaiting the birth of your child and it is all very exciting to get things ready for the baby’s arrival. However, equally as important is being ready for your recovery as a mother after carrying and giving birth to your baby. Make sure that you have all the essentials you need ready at home for when your baby arrives. Being prepared with the products we mentioned above can relieve a lot of the stress and discomfort that will occur after giving birth.

As a new mom, all the attention is, of course, on your newborn baby, and for a good reason. However, if you help yourself and take care of yourself too, this will, in turn, be beneficial for your baby and new family too. Being a new parent is filled with new surprises and ever-changing responsibilities. Still, it is also a time to enjoy and remember everyone is different, so don’t worry too much about doing anything wrong. One important thing to remember is to take time for yourself, and here are just a few simple ways to give yourself some well-deserved self-care. 1. Eat Well Remember that as a new mother, you want to make sure you are taking care of your new baby as well as your own body. Make sure that you are making time for yourself to eat properly and drink lots of water. Specifically, if you are breastfeeding, you are giving away much of your nutrients to your new baby so that they can grow and develop, so you, too, need to do the same. A woman who is breastfeeding will be burning more calories than normal, so you want to ensure that you are getting enough calorie intake. More than ever, you do want to make sure that you are eating nutritious foods, especially if you will be passing it on through breastmilk. Making food does not have to be complex or take too much time since, of course, you will be busy. Eat foods that are high in fiber, like whole grains. Also, make sure that you are incorporating fruits and vegetables, and proteins. Boil an egg or have a bowl of fruit for an easy but sturdy meal. Another great idea is to prepare your meals ahead of time; when you do have a bit of time, you can put together some easy pre-cooked meals for the week to save you some time. On top of great food, make sure you are staying hydrated so that both your baby and yourself are getting enough liquid. 2. Prioritize your Comfort As a new mother, you will now be in charge of a small human and you will inevitably do anything to keep them healthy and comfortable. However, you need to make sure you are not ignoring your own needs. Take some time even if it is for a short period every day to pamper yourself, relax, and splurge on your own wants and needs. Even getting up in the morning and giving yourself time to do your hair or spend a few extra minutes in the shower will help improve your mood. When you leave the house, put on some clothing that makes you feel confident. Try our girdle from Bellefit to help you with your body confidence when you step out as a new mom. It might be something as simple as watching your favorite show, spending money on a new outfit, or a cozy blanket. If you put in just a little effort for yourself then it can make a big difference to both you and your baby’s well-being. 3. Movement Moving or exercising may sound like a daunting task. A new mom might feel a little uncomfortable in their new skin and feel drained from all the new mom's duties. Moving your body is excellent to help slowly get your body back to what it used to be. For the first few weeks after giving birth, you do not want to do any intense workouts but some slow movements will help begin the process. Maybe you will get out for a short walk or try some simple yoga moves. If you take a few minutes to move your muscles and get the blood flow going, this can help you feel good and begin to reclaim your body as you remember it. Everybody is different and it may take you a little more time after giving birth to feel comfortable moving, but take your time and listen to your body. Move if you want and rest when you need it. 4. Be Okay with Saying No Having a new baby is an exciting experience but also a very personal and intimate one. Of course, you may want to share this experience with close family and friends but it is okay to say no sometimes, even to those who are close. Be sure to draw a line when it comes to visitors, the last thing you want is to be over-stressed when you don’t need to be. Having visitors with a new baby can be great and helpful, but it can also be overwhelming especially for a new mother that is trying to adjust to new things and spend time with their new baby. One tip is to really listen to your feelings when it comes to scheduling people coming to visit or that want to meet your new baby. It is okay to say no. Your new mother's experience is uniquely yours and you may find yourself changing your thoughts about how little or how much you want to see other people and have extra bodies in your house. Listen to yourself and decide on what you feel comfortable with, be okay with saying no. Take Care of Yourself Taking care of yourself as a new mom is important, for not only yourself but also for your new family as well. Just because you are spending a lot more attention on someone else does not mean you should ignore your own wants and needs. In fact, all the more reason to make sure you are being taken care of as well which will further benefit your new baby. Hopefully, these simple tips will give you a few ideas of where you can turn your attention to your own needs, even if only briefly. Take care of your physical body as well as your peace of mind. Take time for you.

Having a massage anytime is both relaxing and helps with tension release. Who doesn’t love a good massage? Getting a postpartum massage is equally as relaxing and very beneficial for relaxation, pampering, and healing alike. After giving birth, a new mother definitely deserves a soothing massage that will also lend to many benefits as well. Within the first twelve weeks postpartum, a massage has shown to be an excellent way for some much-needed healing for the women, and here is why. What are the Benefits? First and foremost, like any great massage, a postpartum massage will help ease the muscles that have been worked and overworked both during pregnancy and childbirth. In addition, a postpartum massage will also alleviate tension and lift your mood. Like any body massage, having a massage postpartum will relax and destress your body and mind and will release pain in your muscles. If a new mother is looking to get a massage, you will need to make sure the masseuse knows that you have given birth. There are some reasons, like having a cesarean delivery, then a postpartum massage may not be safe, so make sure to consult your doctor as well. On top of all these incredible benefits, and why so many love a good massage, there are some more specific benefits, especially for postpartum massage. Hormone Regulation Body massages and physical touch may help regulate hormone imbalances. A woman who has just given birth will still have extreme shifts in her hormone levels which in turn makes her body do a bunch of odd things. A body massage can help return balance to your hormones. Plus, essential oils and scented lotions can also help increase your mood. Reduce Swelling A massage can also help reduce swelling in the body that generally occurs when a woman is pregnant and even increasingly so after labor. Having a massage can help with circulating fluids that cause swelling within the body. This will, in turn, allow a new mother to be more comfortable in their body, especially after some significant physical changes. Reduce Depression and Anxiety Muscle massages and essential oils also are beneficial in helping to reduce both depression and anxiety. For a new mother, these emotions may also be heightened, and a massage is an excellent way to help keep these stressors at bay. Increase Milk Production It has been shown that having a massage can also help increase milk production for new mothers. This may also have to do with improved hormone imbalances. Some mothers have trouble with milk production, and added stress may also hinder this process. A massage could help improve milk supply for a variety of reasons. Increase Sleep Quality A massage will also allow your body to relax and, in turn, help you get a better night's sleep. A new mother will likely struggle with getting efficient sleep, a reality of parenting, but if a massage can help you have better sleep, that is definitely a great reason to try. Uterus Contraction Getting a specific uterus massage has also shown some benefits in helping to reduce the size of a woman's uterus after giving birth. This process, however, should only be performed by professionals and should be discussed with your doctor beforehand. When do I get a Postpartum Massage? If you receive a specific postpartum massage, it is generally within the first twelve weeks after a mother has given birth. Some mothers feel more ready after a few weeks, and others will enjoy a light massage the day after childbirth; it all depends on how you and your body are feeling. There is no exact time recommended, and both can be highly beneficial. There are, however, some exceptions; if a new mom gave birth via cesarean, then there are a few more things to consider. Generally, after having a c-section, you will want to wait a short period for your scars to heal, so we advise you to speak to a doctor prior to getting a massage. Many new moms will get a massage numerous times following their pregnancy. The frequency of getting your massages is also a personal preference, some like to have massages consistently, and others enjoy a few sporadic massage sessions. No matter how often, you are likely to enjoy some of the benefits of getting a postpartum massage. What should I expect with my Postpartum Massage? A massage is an experience set up for the client, and so it should be set up to how you are going to enjoy the occasion best. Like other massages, you may want to have a massage in the comfort of your home, mainly to keep your newborn baby close by, or you may wish for the time to get out of the house and have some alone time. After carrying a baby and giving birth, your body will feel different, and maybe specific areas will need more or less attention. All these details and preferences can be discussed with your massage therapist so that you are sure to have the best possible experience. There are different styles of massage that are appropriate for postpartum massage; both deep tissue or a lighter relaxing massage will be helpful, and all depends on a mother's preference. There are also some women who enjoy foot reflexology as well, especially after having a lot of weight and pressure on their feet and back throughout the nine-month pregnancy. A postpartum massage, similar to any other massage experience, should be calming and therapeutic, so it is up to you to find a peaceful space and type of massage that you like best. Satisfaction of Postpartum Massages Postpartum massages are an excellent way for new mothers to unwind, reduce tension in their bodies, and help to slowly get back to normal. For new moms, getting a massage can help with physical benefits as well as getting back to feeling more like you. Another way to help boost your confidence and get used to your new body after giving birth is to try wearing one of our girdles. There are many different styles to choose from that help shape your body after birth and are explicitly designed for new mothers. Giving birth is challenging and puts a lot of pressure on a woman's body. A new mother deserves to relax and to look and feel her best, especially after carrying a baby.

Puffiness and swelling are a perfectly normal part of the post-delivery experience. Let’s dive in and get informed. Where does swelling occur? After you deliver, many women notice puffiness on some part of their body which is called postpartum swelling. Typically, legs, arms, feet, and hands swell during pregnancy and it’s commonly worse at night and in later stages of the pregnancy as well as right after you deliver. Why does swelling occur? Swollen legs and feet are common during and after pregnancy. During pregnancy, it is partly caused by the weight of the baby pressing on veins that return blood from your legs to your upper body so your heart. Also, as hormones go crazy during pregnancy, they can cause the body to produce and retain more blood. After pregnancy, many women still notice swelling which can be caused by pushing during labor, when fluids can move to your hands, feet, and face while you are pressing. Also if you receive IV fluids during labor the extra fluids might make you puffy and take a while to disappear. In addition, you cannot move around as much right after you deliver which makes it harder for your body to get rid of fluids cause your body still has water that is retained to support the baby. Is it normal? Having puffiness in your face, feet, legs, and arms is totally normal after pregnancy. No need to worry. Be patient, your body has just gone through a lot of stress and change in the last months. It does usually disappear within two or three weeks after delivery through sweating and urinating, yet there are ways to speed up the process. How to Speed Up The Process Drink lots of water Dehydration usually makes the body save water which can lead to swelling. Even though it sounds weird, drink 2-3 liters of water a day to reduce swelling in the legs, feet, and hands. You can also drink herbal tea as herbs have many great advantages to your health. Keep your feet elevated Many women experience swelling in their feet. To get the circulation moving, elevating the feet helps and makes fluids flow. Don’t cross your feet as this can cut off blood flow and make the swelling worse. Try to keep your legs elevated or apart when you sit. Don’t eat too much salt The more salt you eat the more water your kidneys save which can lead to swelling in your arms, legs, feet, and hands. High sodium foods are not ideal and can make the swelling worse. Exercise regularly Light exercise like walking will help the body get rid of fluids by activating the sympathetic nervous system. Use compression stockings Compression stockings increase blood flow and will assist in moving fluids from your legs to your kidneys. Be aware of your caffeine consumption Caffeine is making your body lose water which might lead to dehydration. Being hydrated tells your body to save water which then leads to swelling. Be aware of heat It’s also important to stay cool. Heat can worsen swelling so keeping your body at a steady temperature and staying hydrated will help solve this issue. Wear a Postpartum Girdle This form-fitting shapewear ensures support and shapes your body. It reduces swelling by compressing your tissue which helps your body retain fluids. As it is tightly fitting it also helps your circulation and can reduce blood clots. Another benefit of wearing girdles is the fast transition back into normal activities by giving your body enough support. Foam rollers Foam rollers are another great way to improve circulation. They are usually used for muscle tension and pain but help move blood and water through the body at a quicker pace. Massage Try a massage to get your body’s circulation going. There are many spas and massage therapists that offer mother massages. Foods that Fight Postpartum Swelling You are what you eat. Chances are you have heard this quote before and it shows to hold truth. That’s why you should eat potassium-rich foods to help your body with postpartum swelling. What is potassium? It’s a mineral that works together with sodium, helps your nerves to function properly, regulates the fluids, and also keeps your heartbeat regular. It can lower the sodium levels in your body if you eat enough of it. There are many choices when you want to eat more of the mineral, such as bananas, apricots, yogurt, lentils, prunes, raisins, avocado, mushrooms, kale, yams, oranges. Cooked spinach and broccoli also have a high potassium content as well as cucumbers, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, and peas. You should also add vitamin-rich foods. For example, Vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruits which include oranges and lemons, strawberries and tomatoes, etc. Vitamin E is also very important. Foods that include this vitamin are almonds and sunflower seeds, wheat germ oil, peanuts, spinach, etc. In addition, add foods that are high in protein and complex carbohydrates. Choose whole wheat instead of regular wheat flour. And don’t forget to drink water. How To Identify Non-Normal Swelling In some cases, swelling could mean different things and should be looked at by a doctor. Get checked if you notice the swelling starts to increase instead of decrease, if you feel pain or discomfort, or if you press your swollen skin the mark stays there for more than a few minutes. Please consult a doctor if any of these occur if one foot or arm is more swollen than the other, or if the swelling is accompanied by other symptoms like headaches, blurred vision or you have difficulty breathing. Even though you are busy looking after your newborn, your health is just as important. Be patient with your body and take the rest that you need. If your swelling becomes to much to handle, a postpartum girdle will help manage your symptoms and discomfort, providing you with the support you need.

As a normal part of the postpartum process, sweating is common during sleep. Although this uncomfortable period might affect your sleep and make you cranky, it is totally normal and has some very common causes. But, Why? Pregnancy hormone is responsible for this phenomenon. During pregnancy, your body was taking on and holding more fluid to nourish your baby. This was great for keeping you and your baby hydrated, but now your body doesn’t need to keep all those extra fluids. Postpartum night sweats are getting rid of them through sweating, usually at night. How long? This is a natural process that will eventually taper off, so there’s nothing to worry about. Eventually, the extra fluids from your pregnancy will be gone and the hormone will settle down. It can take a little while for this process to finish, but there’s nothing to worry about as it is completely normal and should be expected. Is there anything I can do? If you want to make yourself a little more comfortable or manage the night sweats you're experiencing, there are a few things that can help, and more that are pretty important for your overall health during this period. Lower The Heat Make sure the area you are sleeping in is cool and comfortable for you. Although you will continue sweating, a cool environment will help the sweat to dry and it will be less uncomfortable. Drink Up Remember that you are expelling excess fluid by sweating, and that means you are losing hydration. Being dehydrated can be dangerous, and it isn’t healthy. Track your drinking habits and try to drink immediately after you wake up if you have been sweating during the night to start your day off right. Keep drinking plenty of fluids, especially if you’re breastfeeding, as this is important for breast milk production. Soften The Experience Putting a soft towel or a pad on your pillow or under your sheets can help absorb some of the moisture leaving your body. Additionally, this will lessen the effect of the sweating on your bedsheets and you won’t need to change them as often during this period. Keep an Eye Out While night sweats are totally normal, if they become abnormal you should seek some help from your doctor. You’re feeling the heat, but you shouldn’t be feeling it so much that your temperature is over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Night sweats are a sign that something is going fine, but a fever might mean that you are sick. This Too Shall Pass While it can be uncomfortable for a while, this is a normal part of the postpartum process and will eventually pass. There is nothing to be worried about, and when it is over you will have the relief of getting back to normal (except for that demanding baby!). Any other discomfort you might be experiencing could be the result of something else, and you should ask your doctor about that, but if your night sweats are the only problem, that’s great. The Long Haul Try to remember that this is one stage in a long haul process while nursing your baby that will eventually finish. You’re now in the middle of an incredible moment for your baby and you; enjoy it! If you’d like more information about night sweats or other topics related to nursing and postpartum recovery, take a look at our site.

Your body drastically changes when you become pregnant, but those changes don’t stop after you give birth. After giving birth, your body has to adjust back to a new state of normal. This may result in a new postpartum body that doesn’t look quite the same as before you gave birth. In this article, we will go over what to expect after you have given birth and how your postpartum body changes. What to Expect After Giving Birth For nine months your body went through a drastic change. Now, after labor and delivery, your body has to adjust back to a new state of normal. This process can last anywhere from six weeks to one year. The first six weeks of your postpartum journey are the most physically grueling and mentally taxing. Between recovery from labor, breastfeeding, and the hormonal changes it can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, we were able to put together a list of some milestones and basic knowledge to expect during the postpartum period. How Your Postpartum Body Changes (First Six Weeks) The first six weeks after giving birth are the most crucial and intense. Directly after giving birth there are a variety of things that your body goes through. First, your body needs to recover from the delivery process. For women who had a vaginal delivery, this can include bleeding, and vaginal pain. For women who had a C-section delivery, this can include incision pain and vaginal bleeding. During this time your body is also adjusting to the decrease in hormones which can cause severe mood swings, crying, and an overwhelming sense of exhaustion. In addition, your uterus is shrinking back down and your body is getting rid of any retained fluid. This means that you will likely have to pee frequently, sweat, and that your tummy will start to shrink back down. After this, your body should start to slowly heal from the delivery. About two weeks after your labor and delivery you should start to see your vaginal bleeding decrease. As your vagina heals from any tearing you may start to feel itchy or your C-section scar may start to itch as it heals. Mentally, many women go through a period of “baby blues.” The rapid change in your hormones, coupled with the new duties as a mother can be overwhelming and lead to periods of sadness and anxiety. This is completely normal, but if you are having intrusive thoughts of hurting yourself or the baby you may want to talk to your doctor. Due to your rapidly changing hormones, you may also experience some hair loss after giving birth and even some acne or dry patches. In addition, your abdominal muscles and pelvic floor may be weak. This can lead to decreased bladder control and constipation. Similarly, your abdominal muscles may have separated during your pregnancy, this is a condition called diastasis recti. This condition can cause pain, weak abdominal muscles, and can be long-lasting if not properly taken care of. How Your Postpartum Body Changes (After Six Weeks) Six weeks after your labor and delivery, you should be cleared by a doctor to start more vigorous activities such as sex and exercise. It’s up to you to decide if you feel up to doing these things yet. Every woman is different so it’s up to you to determine when you are ready. Your abdominal muscles and pelvic floor should strengthen. This can help you get back your bladder control and lead to less pain when moving around. Make sure you are doing some abdominal and pelvic floor exercises to regain strength. Your period typically will start to come back around the six-eight week mark. Your breastmilk may begin to dry up around six months after giving birth and your hair should stop falling out. If you had a c-section delivery you can also expect to be a little tired around the six-month mark. Overall you should start to feel better mentally and physically. If you have any lingering pain or depression, reach out to a doctor. Long-Lasting Body Changes After Pregnancy and Birth It can be difficult to accept, but after pregnancy and delivery, your body can change completely. The rapid increase and decrease of weight and the act of labor can cause long-lasting and permanent changes to your body. This is completely normal and expected. You had to grow a life inside of you and give birth! These changes can include stretch marks, a change in weight distribution, wider hips, a few extra pounds on your stomach, varicose veins, and C-section scarring. All of the long-lasting changes are just reminders of how powerful and beautiful your body is. Don’t look at them as negatives, but think of them as landmarks on the map of your life. When to Talk to a Doctor The first six week period after giving birth is the most crucial when it comes to possible complications. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. They should be able to diagnose and treat any problems that come about after giving birth. Chills or fever Heavy bleeding (soaking an entire pad in a short amount of time) Foul-smelling discharge Severe pain/redness/swelling/discharge from C-section incision Fainting, nausea, vomiting Constipation (lasting more than three days) Swelling/redness in your breasts Headaches/vision changes Swelling/redness in your legs Persistent and Intense feelings of sadness Key Takeaways Your body goes through a lot during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Afterward, your body will continue to go through physical and mental changes. This can result in permanent and long-lasting changes to your postpartum body. The first six weeks are the most crucial period to help you have the most pain-free and successful postpartum journey. With a postpartum girdle, you can help shrink your uterus back to its original position, strengthen your abdominal muscles, prevent diastasis recti, and experience less pain. Don’t suffer through a painful postpartum journey when there are helpful tools at your disposal. Purchase a Bellefit postpartum girdle today to feel and look your best.

After reading all the books, attending all the classes, and consulting with all your family and friends you probably feel ready to take on pregnancy, labor, and delivery. But what about what happens after giving birth. Unlike most classes, books, and friends we are here to tell you about what they don’t talk about. In this article, we will get into the nitty-gritty, gross, dirty details of what happens after giving birth. What Happens After Giving Birth? You have finished the labor and delivery portion of your pregnancy and now you are officially a mother. Now what? Even with all the research in the world, you are still probably going to find yourself unprepared for the next portion of your journey. That’s okay, if no one else wants to talk about it, we will. So let’s get into the details of what to expect in the hospital and once you leave. What Happens After Giving Birth? In the Hospital Directly after the birth of your baby, you may be thinking you have the worst of it over with. I mean you did just deliver a child. Unfortunately for some women, the delivery of their child is not the worst of the delivery process. The Afterbirth Many women don’t talk about it, but the afterbirth can be one of the most painful portions of your labor and delivery. After the baby comes, your body still needs to get rid of the placenta. The placenta is the membrane/tissue that your baby developed in, in your uterus. So, not only do you have to give birth to your baby, but you also have to give birth to the placenta too. After the baby is born it typically takes about 30 minutes for the placenta to be delivered. This can be the most painful part of a woman’s labor (particularly if the placenta has to be manually extracted) or it can be super easy. The Tummy Massage In order to make sure that your uterus is contracting correctly and to make sure you deliver the placenta, you may be given a tummy massage. While the name may sound delightful--it is anything but. The nurse has to press down on your fatigued, sensitive stomach and push in all different directions. This is meant to stimulate contractions and help the uterus shrink back down after birth. It can be painful and uncomfortable. No Privacy After giving birth, you have probably gotten a little used to being on display for the whole world to see, but you’re not done yet. Every bodily function and every inch of you is being monitored and explored. There is no privacy--even your bathroom habits are monitored. The Shakes With all the medicine, hormones, stress, anxiety, and emotions your body can start to uncontrollably shake. For some women, this doesn’t happen, but for many, it can be a surprising after-effect of their labor and delivery. Can’t Shower So, you have delivered a baby, pushed out the afterbirth, possibly had to get stitches and everything. You are likely covered in blood, tissue, and discharge, but you can’t take a shower. Yep, after all that, you probably feel disgusting and self-conscious, but you can’t take a shower yet. You have to wait until you can be unhooked from all the machines and not under constant moderation. That can be hours after you have given birth. Can’t Walk In general, you won’t be permitted to walk for about 12 hours after your labor. Not only are your muscles fatigued, but all the medicine can prevent you from being able to walk in the first place. Farting Before you are released from the hospital there is a list of things that you and your baby have to complete. One of the things that you have to do before they release you, is fart. The nurses will constantly be asking “have you farted yet?” And you have to answer, again, no privacy. You Aren’t Ready You may think and believe that you are ready to have a child, but you most likely aren’t. No matter how many books you read, classes you take, and how prepared you feel, nothing compares to the real thing. Once you and your baby are released from the hospital you can suddenly feel like a deer in the headlights. Do I have to take care of this? By myself? I don’t know what I’m doing? Is there an instruction manual? Don’t worry, every mother has been there. You will get through it. Just take it one day, one hour at a time. What Happens After Giving Birth? At Home Once you get home, it is a whole other ordeal. Not only do you have to take care of your baby, but you have to take care of yourself too. Your body is still healing and so many changes occur in such a short amount of time--it can be overwhelming. Here are some of the things you can expect. You Will Bleed A Lot You’re not done with the blood yet. After birth, your vagina and uterus are going to take a while to completely heal. Mesh underwear and pads are going to be your best friend for a while. This blood and tissue, known as the lochia, will continue for up to six weeks after giving birth. Make sure you stock up on the pads and granny panties. All The Postpartum Cleanup In addition to the bleeding, your vagina will be akin to a crime scene. You may have sutures from tearing, your vagina will be sore and swollen, and you may have some gross discharge. It sucks dealing with that but in order to make sure you don’t develop an infection you will have to take care of it. This can include spraying it with a perineum bottle, changing out your pad every time you go to the bathroom, and even popping a little cold witch hazel into your underwear. A cold witch hazel-soaked pad can help reduce swelling and prevent itchiness. Pre-soaked pads such as those created for hemorrhoids are perfect! Your Boobs Will Get Huge Even if you don’t plan on breastfeeding your boobs will start to have a mind of their own. Between milk production and your hormones, your boobs will become huge. Not only this, but they will leak afterward too. Night Sweats As your body adjusts to not being pregnant anymore, it will begin to expel any excess fluids it was holding on to. This means frequent peeing and sweating. And just because you’re sleeping doesn’t mean they stop. You may wake up in the morning, covered in sweat, and with your pillow soaked through. Cute right? You Will Never Sleep Again Ok, that is a little bit of an exaggeration, but it’s not far from the truth for the first year or so. Your sleep schedule and your baby’s sleep schedule can be wildly different. They may be waking up every two hours, and then you may be waking up every hour in between to adjust yourself or go to the bathroom. This can result in restless nights and overly-tired days. Cramping While your uterus is still shrinking back to its normal size, you may experience some cramping and abdominal pain. This is normal and not anything to worry about--unless it becomes severe, then seek out your doctor’s opinion. Peeing Burns Of course, we had to leave the best ones for last, bodily functions are going to hurt. Because your pee is acidic, and because your vagina is still healing, this can cause some serious burning sensations when you pee. The best way to combat this is to use a perineum bottle and spray your vagina while you pee. This will keep the pee from burning and causing an infection. Constipation And Pooping At last, we have come to the number one thing people don’t talk about after giving birth--bowel movements. For real, this is one of the weirdest things about the postpartum period. Your first poop after giving birth is going to be difficult. Not only does pushing hurt, but so does your downstairs region. The best way to combat this is to take some stool softeners. You may be constipated for a few days after giving birth, but make sure you reach out to a doctor if you go past three days. Some hospitals may not even discharge you until you have gone poop. Key Takeaways There are a lot of things that women won’t tell you after giving birth. Either because they are taboo, or because they are embarrassed to talk about it. Hopefully, you feel a little more prepared after reading this for the journey ahead. While there are many things women don’t talk about, one thing is for sure--it is all worth it. Holding your newborn in your arms and watching them grow is one of the most rewarding experiences in the whole world. Don’t let the process prevent you from enjoying the reward. Make sure you have the best postpartum experience by investing in a postpartum girdle. Bellefit’s postpartum girdles are designed to ease movement and provide medical-grade compression to your abdomen. This helps you move around, feel less pain, and enjoy your time with your newborn. Get yours today!

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

Shopping for an after pregnancy girdle takes skills. It requires product knowledge as well as reviews and testimonials particularly if the item in question is sold strictly through online retailers.