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As your baby ages, newborn sleep patterns vary. Knowing these sleep patterns and how much sleep they should be getting helps you plan naps and bedtimes accordingly.

Preparing for a water break in pregnancy helps eliminate fears and gives you the confidence you need for delivering your baby.

If you’ve ever experienced mood swings while menstruating, you understand that a change in hormones causes them. The same can be expected while pregnant. It’s not unusual for you to feel emotional throughout your pregnancy. In fact, knowing what is causing feelings of discomfort can help you refocus your energy on something positive and productive. Table Of Contents 1. You’re not alone in how you’re feeling 2. There is a silver lining to every cloud 3. They’re called your support system for a reason 4. Hunger can cause you to be hangry during pregnancy 5. Laughter lifts your mood fast Fight Mood Swings After Pregnancy Wondering when do mood swings start during pregnancy? The first trimester proves to be the most volatile. After that period of time, you can count on things getting better. Knowing how to handle your moods helps the not-so-pretty ones pass quickly. Here is a list of things you should know about mood swings and pregnancy. 1. You’re not alone in how you’re feeling It is important to remember that mood swings are a common part of pregnancy and you are not alone in this journey. Most women feel changes in their body and mood while pregnant. Know that you’re in good company. Join an online community for new moms so you can share your experiences with other women who understand what you’re going through. You will also be able to find numerous tips and tricks on how to manage mood swings during pregnancy. If you do suspect you’re depressed, it’s important to share your feelings with a mental health professional. 2. There is a silver lining to every cloud Remember, after every storm a beautiful rainbow awaits. Enjoy the beautiful period while it lasts! When your mood hits rock bottom, it’s important to know that it will eventually pass. One of the fastest ways to shift your mood is to focus on something positive. Even if you’re unable to do an activity that focuses on the thing that you’re thinking about, the thought of it will help bring a smile to your face. Remember fond memories and plans for the future. Allow these things to help you reframe your current situation. You’ll feel in control of your feelings better once you’ve practiced the technique of reframing a couple of times. 3. They’re called your support system for a reason You do not have to fight the battle alone. Let your loved ones know so they can support you throughout the journey. Rely on your spouse, family, and friends in times of need. Talk to them about how you’re feeling. They may be able to give you advice and help you through the mood that you’re experiencing. After all, they know you very well and can distract you with funny stories or an impromptu shopping trip so that you forget how mad or sad you were when you first spoke to them. Knowing what helps with mood swings during pregnancy can go a long way in helping you ease your emotions. 4. Hunger can cause you to be hangry during pregnancy Keep nutritious snacks in hand to keep those hunger pangs at bay. Keep a supply of nutritious, filling snacks on hand to see you through the day. That way, you don’t confuse hunger for an emotion. You may be feeling tired and irritable because you haven’t consumed enough calories. Hunger can aggravate your mood swings during pregnancy. Look for nutrient-dense options that fill you up and help you sustain blood sugar levels. That way, you’re not crashing fast after loading up on carbs. 5. Laughter lifts your mood fast Fun Fact: Laughter can help alleviate mood swings and boost your mood significantly! Go on and laugh your way to a good mood. Turn on a funny video or listen to a comedy podcast. Call your funniest friend and ask them to speak to you in a ridiculous accent. It may sound crazy but it works! These seemingly peculiar tips will make coping with mood swings during pregnancy easier. Fight Mood Swings After Pregnancy Mood swings and irritability during pregnancy are to be expected, especially considering the weight a woman puts on while carrying a child as well as physical symptoms such as swelling and nausea. But many women don't realize that you can have mood swings after pregnancy too! After pregnancy, your hormones have to adjust back to their normal level. This leaves many women emotional, and many women have to adjust to their new post-pregnancy body. Not only do you have to care for a new baby but you also have to take care of your own body, especially right after you give birth. A lot of discomfort that comes after giving birth can be relieved with a comfortable postpartum girdle. In fact Bellefit has some girdles that are specifically formulated to offer firm support to your back and lower abdomen. These girdles, help take the pressure off your back, relieve back pain, combat diastasis recti, and help you feel comfortable in your body again. Being able to recognize what triggers your mood is important as it will allow you to determine the best way to cope with the way that you’re feeling. It could be as simple as deep breathing or eating a protein-rich snack when you’re hungry. Don't worry about the excess calories! Once your beautiful pregnancy journey comes to an end, you can also use Bellefit's postpartum corsets to bounce back in shape! Bellefit Postpartum Girdles & Corsets - Medical-Grade, FDA-Registered, Recommended Since 2008. Available in 8 Styles as well as Plus Sizes. Do you think a healthy diet - coupled with a few lifestyle changes – are enough to effectively manage those crazy mood swings during pregnancy?

Among one of the greatest skills you’ll master as a new mother is bathing your baby. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of adjusting to make the experience pleasant for both you and your little one. Table Of Contents 1. Baby-Proof the Bathroom 2. Keep Your Supplies Nearby When You Bath Your Baby 3. Turn on Water and Test the Temperature with Your Wrist Before Baby Bath 4. Wash your Baby’s Upper Body First 5. Dry The Baby Off and Give Their Body a Rub Down with Baby-Friendly Lotion As your child gets bigger, it will be easier to get them situated in the tub but keeping them from getting into things becomes harder. With each stage of assisted bathing you take part in, you learn valuable lessons that helps you deal kindly with your kid. Use this list to help yourself get prepared to Bathe Your Baby. 1. Baby-Proof the Bathroom Baby proof your bathroom so the baby doesn't gets hurt. Many dangers exist in the home, especially in the bathroom. Invest in spout covers to prevent your baby from scalding themselves if they try to turn the hot water handle or knob. You’ll also want to invest in a non-slip mat for the bottom of the tub to keep a build-up of soap from causing accidents. Removing objects that the baby could knock over, put in their mouth or hurt themselves on is advisable. 2. Keep Your Supplies Nearby When You Bath Your Baby Make pre preparations keeping everything close by while bathing your baby. Gather everything you’ll need to bathe baby. Make sure they are within reach so you don’t turn your back on your child or leave them unattended for even a second. You’ll likely want to have tear-free, baby shampoo, a shampoo visor which prevents suds from getting into the child’s face, washcloths, toys, a hooded bath towel, diapers, diaper cream, moisturizer, and clothing available so you can wash, dry, and dress your little one with greater ease. 3. Turn on Water and Test the Temperature with Your Wrist Before Baby Bath Test the water temperature before it falls on your baby. That way, you know it's not too hot for your baby’s skin. You can also change the settings on your hot water heater. Temps should not be above 120 degrees Fahrenheit because anything above that cause damage to sensitive skin by scalding it. 4. Wash your Baby’s Upper Body First Start your baby bath with upper body first. Prop your baby up using a special bath board and start washing their upper body. Then, work on their lower extremities before putting on the shampoo visor and washing their hair. Make sure all signs of soap are gone from the baby’s body before removing them from the tub by rinsing them well. 5. Dry The Baby Off and Give Their Body a Rub Down with Baby-Friendly Lotion Dry your baby gently with soft tender towel rub. Take the hooded towel and start gently rubbing the baby’s skin until its dry. Keep them warm by cuddling them inside the towel as you dab at the wet parts of them. Once they’re warm and completely dry, apply lotion to their body You can then diaper and dress them and get them ready for bed or for the day, whatever time it is after their bath. Infant tubs are valuable tools to have on hand for the first few months of bathing your child. Then, they can graduate to the sink or regular bathtub once you’re more comfortable with washing them. Bathing your baby is something you’ll do often after giving birth. It becomes habitual after a short period of time. Once you’ve passed the learning curve that comes with all new babies, you’ll come up a routine that works well for you and your little one. That means less resistance, fewer tears, and cleaner bottoms! Bathing your baby requires you to engage your lower back muscles and your core. It is important for you to be able to hold your baby properly and safely. Many women experience that jelly belly feeling, core weakness, and back pain. Wearing a postpartum girdle shortly after giving birth will help new moms feel more secure and stable; physically and emotionally. It can be very frustrating and depressing for women not to feeling put together and not being able to care for your baby the way you expect you should. Bellefit® Postpartum Girdles & Corsets - Medical-Grade, FDA-Registered, Doctor-Recommended since 2008. Did you as a mother faced any other challenge while bathing your baby? Believe us, we would love to hear you story!

If you go past your due date, should you be concerned? The answer is no, unless your doctor states otherwise, it’s very common for a woman to experience going past due date which serves as an approximation for delivery.

It turns out that our grandmothers were right all along: Postpartum girdles are an important part of the recovery process. They can help you to stave off back problems, poor posture, and diminished muscle tone in the core region. However, they are not a miracle cure. Postpartum girdles will not restore your pre-baby figure in a week, and they are not a substitute for exercise. What they can do is give you an instant confidence boost and make it easier to get back to your daily life, including caring for your new bundle of joy. The History Of Girdles You may think that wearing girdles is a relatively new phenomenon, but the concept has been around for thousands of years. Girdles have been used by many ancient cultures worldwide, and were typically linked with fertility and childbearing. In fact, Ishtar – the Egyptian goddess of fertility – was illustrated wearing a girdle. The Difference Between a Girdle and A Corset Girdles and corsets have a similar purpose, to helps slim and support your core. In terms of their differences, the boning used in corsets makes them stiff enough to remain in place on your body. Because they lace up, corsets can be pulled extremely tight to temporarily or permanently reduce waist size and elevate the breasts. If used incorrectly, they can cause damage to vital organs, result in broken ribs, and can create breathing difficulties. Comprised of firm but stretchy material, girdles do not contain boning. The design allows them to provide compression and support without being so tight as to risk damage to your organs. What Can a Girdle Do For You? Following delivery, a girdle can help you to: Recovery faster Relieve diastasis recti (abdominal separation) Shrink the uterus Boost confidence Reduce pain Help protect C-Section incision Wearing a postpartum girdle can help you walk farther after delivery – getting you back to your normal activities faster. Postpartum Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP) Postpartum Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP) affects up to 25% of mothers after delivery. Although PPGP often resolves within 4 months, 20% of women may experience symptoms even 2-3 years later. Abdominal support, like a postpartum girdle provides, is one of the standard treatments for PPGP. It is believed to reduce intensity and duration of pain. Incidence of Postpartum Pelvic Girdle Pain (PPGP) 25% of women experience PPGP after delivery. In most cases, PPGP resolves within 4 months. 20% of women still have symptoms and pain 2-3 years postpartum Choosing the Right Girdle For You There are several things you should take into consideration when you are choosing the right girdle for you. What’s Your Area of Concern? Some girdles are designed to give you lots of tummy support, but not a lot of back support. Others may give you firm compression in both areas. Most girdles will have compression panels, so you can easily see where they offer support. This is important not just for aesthetic purposes, but to help relieve pain. If you have pain in your abdomen, back, or both, you will want to choose a girdle that supports those areas. Hook and Eye Closure vs Zipper There are many different styles of girdle on the market. Some offer 3 rows of button-up closures in the front so that you can adjust their tightness according to your needs. These are a great option if you want to avoid having to purchase more than one girdle as your abdomen starts to return to its normal size. Some girdles come with a zipper on the side. Although these are convenient (easy to put on or take off) they are not adjustable. Other designs offer the best of both worlds, featuring an adjustable button closure and a zipper on the side. Alternatively, some girdles have no closures and are simply one piece. These can be more difficult to get into, but they stay in place and you won’t have to worry about the closures being seen under your clothes. Bathroom Consideration You’ll want a girdle that allows for easy bathroom access, especially considering how frequent your bathroom trips will be following delivery. Many girdles have snaps or buttons on the crotch, called a gusset, so that you can use the bathroom without removing the girdle. I highly recommend selecting a girdle with this feature. Bra or No Bra A majority of girdles will hit directly below your bust line. However, some are designed with shoulder straps for maximum support and to help with your posture. They can also prevent the girdle from moving out of place. Some girdles also have a built-in corset that functions as a bra. I do not recommend this type of girdle for postpartum wear, because your breasts will change sizes and likely much sooner than your waistline. In other words, finding a girdle that fits your breasts now and a few weeks down the road can be a difficult task. A better option is to choose a girdle that allows you to wear your own bra. This ensures the proper fit and support in all areas. This is also great if you are nursing, because it allows you to combine a nursing bra with your girdle. Full Rear? Are you feeling cheeky? If you enjoy wearing thongs or high cut underwear, you can find girdles with the same design. You can choose full rear coverage, or “cheeky” minimal coverage. Girdles are also available in thong, so you can choose the rear cut that fits your needs best. If your butt needs firming and shaping after your delivery, a full rear offers the lift and support that makes you look great. However, if your butt is already on the smaller side, a full rear can make it look flat. If you want to show off your natural curves, choose a cheeky cut or thong. Registered Medical Device Some postpartum girdles are registered medical devices. A registered medical device is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to diagnose, prevent, or treat a disease or other condition. When selecting a postpartum girdle, choosing one that is registered as a medical device to ensure that you get the support and quality that you need. Quality When you purchase a girdle, you will likely be wearing it up to six months after pregnancy. In fact, many women choose to continue wearing girdles long after they give birth. Simply put, you will want a girdle that can stand up to everyday wear. Some less expensive brands sacrifice quality for price. Bear in mind that it may fit well at first, but will likely become looser and less supportive over time. In addition to choosing a girdle with support panels (that is a registered medical device), there are a few other factors to consider. First, the best girdles have 3 different layers. It is unlikely that you will be able to see these layers, but the information will be contained in the manufacturer’s listing. Second, when shopping for a girdle, check the quality of the fasteners. Velcro is cheaper than other methods, and may indicate a lower overall quality. Hook and eye closures or a well-made zipper are better options, though a little more expensive to manufacture. Lastly, check the product reviews. A quality girdle will have honest testimonials attesting to its benefits, as well as how well it holds up over time. A postpartum girdle can bring you many benefits. They can relieve PPGP pain, diastasis recti, shrink your uterus, reduce postpartum bleeding, and protect C-section incisions. They can also help you to be more active and experience less pain following childbirth. Not Just Physical Benefits In addition to the physical benefits, wearing a postpartum girdle can give you a confidence boost. Your body performs a miracle throughout pregnancy and during childbirth, but all the changes your body goes through can be difficult to handle. After you give birth, you may experience frustration when your body doesn’t return to its pre- pregnancy state as quickly as you would like it to. No one wants to be asked “When is the baby due?” after giving birth. A postpartum girdle can instantly make you look slimmer and more shapely, which can give you the confidence to enjoy your postpartum life and focus on building a bond with your new bundle of joy. 8 Best Postpartum Girdles by Bellefit

Congratulations on the arrival of your new bundle of joy! No doubt you are eager to share your happiness with your family, friends, and social media followers, but are also hesitant for them to see photos of you so early into your recovery process. It is challenging to accept the postpartum stage – psychologically, emotionally, and physically. Well, what if I told you that you can have it both ways? Not only can you savor the joys of motherhood, you can get your body back. Although there are a variety of methods and products on the market that you can use to achieve this, I want to draw your attention to the postpartum girdle. It is cheap, easy to use, and it works. What is a Postpartum Girdle? Postpartum girdles are worn around the abdominal region to help the abdomen, hips, and bum regain their former shape. Not to be confused with waist trainers, girdles fall into the “shapewear” category. Tight yet breathable, they are made of medical-grade fabric, nylon, and spandex They have recently gained popularity after celebrities, like Jessica Alba, announced that she wore one following her delivery and that she achieved incredible results. Beyond celebrities, women worldwide are writing raving reviews about the benefits of Bellefit’s postpartum girdles: A Better and Immediate Alternative to Plastic Surgery Plastic surgery is expensive, often requiring a 5-figure budget for the (non-insured) procedure. In New York City, $9000-$12000 is the minimum budget required. A cheaper and comparable alternative is a $72 postpartum girdle from Bellefit. That same $10000 that had to be saved and set aside for plastic surgery can now be put into a college savings account for your new little bundle. The last thing you should do following childbirth is subject your body to an arduous surgery and a prolonged recovery process. It typically takes between 2-4 weeks to recover from plastic surgery, and it can take months before you start feeling like your usual self. Plastic surgery also comes with a number of side effects, including pain, numbness, and bruising that can last several weeks. Like any surgery, it also carries risks and complications. Your likelihood of experiencing complications increases if you have a history of poor circulation, liver disease, lung cancer, diabetes, or if you smoke. Complications can range from scarring, slow healing, altered pigmentation, infection, and bleeding to fluid build-up. One of the best parts of the postpartum girdle is that you can start wearing it the day you are discharged from the hospital. By contrast, doctors are skeptical about recommending a tummy tuck after a C-section, and even ideal candidates have to wait 6 months to undertake the invasive procedure. Why wait when you can benefit from your postpartum girdle? Our custom C-section girdle removes pressure from your incision, speeding up the healing process. According to the latest evidence, the postpartum girdle helps women experience less bleeding, pain, and to get back up on their feet quicker after a C-section. Speed Up Your Body's Healing Process If you experience diastasis recti, the girdle’s design helps to realign your over-extended abdominal muscles. Generally speaking, it allows women to quickly regain their natural body shape, relieves postpartum cramps, reduces pain, conditions you to become more agile, and steadies your pelvic floor. Some nursing mothers have also described how the girdle helped them to lose weight. However, there is no medical evidence to support this claim. In any case, one of your goals as a nursing mother should be to recover your core strength quickly and connect with your bundle of joy, and a postpartum girdle helps you to achieve this. Postpartum Girdles Support Well-Being A mother's mental stability and recovery after childbirth is just as important as her physical recovery. Although a newborn often brings unbridled joy, one of the most significant challenges today’s mothers face is accepting the incredible changes that happen to their bodies. Unfortunately, we live in a world where slim is the barometer for what is socially acceptable and sexy. Add social media to the mix, and a new mother’s self-esteem can take a considerable bashing. When you are regularly exposed to images of slim, sexy women, you are more likely to compare yourself to them and worry. A postpartum girdle gives new moms hope, confidence, and an effective tool they can use to get their body back to its former state. When you wear Bellefit underneath your clothes, you look slim and it provides you with an hourglass shape. That feeling of confidence and having a plan can give you a sense of achievement and a continued source of inspiration. It also helps you to accept the current state of your body and chart a course for recovery. After all, the postpartum period is a time to bond with your baby, regain your core strength, adapt to motherhood, and get back to your pre-pregnancy activities. Constantly staring at your abdomen in the mirror is not part of the list. Instead of worrying, focus on your goals and have something to look forward to by wearing Bellefit. How to Wear a Postpartum Girdle A postpartum girdle should be worn immediately after childbirth, as soon as your doctor allows. How NOT to Wear Your Postpartum Girdle Do not wear it while pregnant Avoid direct contact with the skin by wearing your girdle over an undershirt Do not wear it in the shower To avoid distress, ensure the girdle is loose enough and adjust it regularly to support healing and comfort Suitability for a Postpartum Girdle Women who have amnionitis, infections, or wounds from a C-section cannot wear postpartum girdles (or postpartum wraps). A postpartum wrap should be worn immediately; if your doctor permits you to proceed. Waist Trainers Should Not Be Confused With Postpartum Wrap What makes a postpartum wrap so effective is that it offers gentle compression and support to aid the healing and recovery process. The waist trainers you see some celebrities wearing on social media are made from dense materials, such as metal and latex, creating heavy compression. They are worn to reduce the size of your waist and are not medically advisable. We know that the postpartum period is never easy. That’s why we have created Bellefit’s postpartum girdle to help you through this process. With exercise and a balanced diet, your body should return to its normal shape in no time. Take it slow, and enjoy this blissful moment with your child.

As a new mother, you likely have questions about what you can and cannot do after giving birth. There will be a period of rest and recovery following the birthing process that you’ll be recommended to take. You’ll also want to be very careful with your physical body while bathing and dressing, particularly if you have sutures due to the surgical procedure you’ve just undergone. So, how do you know if a postpartum girdle is right for you or not? Do a lot of women find it necessary to wear such an undergarment? Are there risks involved in using a post-pregnancy corset for lower back and abdomen support? These questions may come to mind after you’ve delivered your child. Legitimate in every way, we’re here to help you come to the conclusion that girdles are, indeed, safe to wear after giving birth. That way, you’re able to decide which style best meets your needs physically and fashionably. Not for the Faint-Hearted According to an A-List Celebrity Take it from actress and entrepreneur Jessica Alba that wearing a corset after having a baby isn’t for the faint-hearted. She wore a double-corset day and night to get back to her original pre-pregnancy shape. Her biggest complaint was how incredibly sweaty she was but then explained that it was doable for some women. Weighing the pros with the cons helps you determine whether wearing a girdle after birth is right for you. To better understand what you’re up against, let’s look at both sides in greater detail. The Pros of Wearing a Postpartum Girdle Among the many benefits that comes with wearing a postpartum girdle is how well it keeps things in place. With pregnancy weight being an issue for many women who have just given birth, a postpartum girdle helps compress the abdomen, giving you a seamless look that can be worn under dresses, skinny jeans, and even sweatpants. Next, it provides extra support for the lower back which has a tendency to hurt whenever weight is gained. Having a garment that keeps everything in place makes it easier for you to exhibit good posture and prevent muscle strain. That means that you won’t risk injuring yourself while you work to lose the extra weight you gained while pregnant. Corset-Wearing Cons Some of the negatives that come with wearing a corset include cost and restriction. Investing in a girdle can set you back quite a bit of money depending on the brand and style that you choose. It’s more expensive than any bra or pair of underwear that you’ve purchased but does offer durability which leads to its long-term use. The other thing you’ll want to be aware of is how binding a corset can be. It compresses the abdomen and back. Although there are many styles available making it easier to put on and take off a corset, it’s still very form-fitting and restrictive. Choose Bellefit for the Ultimate Comfort and Support Bellefit products are designed to maximize comfort while providing support in all the right places. We offer a variety of styles of girdles to choose from, too, making it easy to find one that you love wearing. See for yourself what selections await you by checking out our inventory today.

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

Now that you know what to expect from a C Section, you’ll have an easier time preparing for and healing from the surgical procedure.

Table Of Contents 5 Steps to Tell if Your Abs are Separated After Pregnancy Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 How to Fix Diastasis Recti and Get a Flat Stomach A Bellefit Postpartum Girdle Exercises Safe for Postpartum If you’ve had your baby and are having trouble losing your pregnancy weight or still look pregnant, it could be because you have diastasis recti. Pronounced dī-ăs′tə-sĭs rec-tie, this is where the connective tissue between your abdominal wall, called the linea alba, is overstretched and your ab muscles are separated. A little stretching is normal during pregnancy. A diastasis recti is considered harmful when the linea alba is stretched too far to heal on its own, usually greater than two finger-widths apart. This is often accompanied by: Pelvic, hip, or back pain Incontinence Intestinal issues An inability to contract or stabilize your core “Mummy tummy” – still looking pregnant after having your baby Here’s how to tell if you have this condition, and how to bring your abs back together! 5 Steps to Tell if Your Abs are Separated After Pregnancy Assessing for DR from Allison Lambert on Vimeo. You can watch the video or follow the steps below! Step 1 Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Take a few deep breaths while completely relaxing your body, especially your abs and your butt. Step 2 Use your index, middle, and ring fingers to feel the firmness of your linea alba. Keeping fingers close together, knuckles pointing at your legs, start just below your sternum and firmly press fingers along your connective tissue. Stop about 1-2 inches below the belly button. Notice any soft or squishy areas. Pay attention to how deep you can go in some areas if noticeable. Step 3 Repeat with your chin tucked and your head lifted off the floor: You can put one hand behind your neck, but do not pull your neck. Make sure your shoulders stay on the ground and only your head comes off of floor. Feel for the left and right sides of your ab muscles coming together and record any gap in finger widths. If you don’t feel anything, add a finger until you do (some may need 1-2 hands). Repeat as needed until you feel you’re getting an accurate assessment. Step 4 Record your results at the following areas: Halfway between your sternum and belly button- about 3 fingers below your sternum (chest bone) Halfway between your belly button and pubic bone- about 3 fingers below your belly button At your belly button A small separation can be normal and heal in the first few weeks postpartum. If the finger width is two or more, special exercises, binding, and precautions need to be taken. Step 5 To determine if your abs can still contract despite a separation, repeat Step 3 again. This time take a big belly breath in and as you’re forcing all the air out, perform a small kegel. Notice how this changes the gap. If there’s no tension or narrowing, it demonstrates a dysfunctional diastasis recti If you noticed a large gap but it narrows, it means your diastasis is “functional” meaning your abs can still contract Note: if you feel anything out of the ordinary, like a painful bulge in the abdomen, contact your OBGYN or doctor A mixture of safe postpartum exercises and a Bellefit Postpartum Girdle are the perfect remedy for diastasis recti. How to Fix Diastasis Recti and Get a Flat Stomach There are two tried and true ways to help close diastasis recti. A Bellefit Postpartum Girdle Helps your body to heal with the support it needs. Also stimulates your Lymphatic system to help remove toxins and decrease swelling and bring your abs back together safely. Exercises Safe for Postpartum Many exercises can make your separation and incontinence worse, so choosing only safe workouts is key. A program designed for diastasis recti will help you gain your strength back and stabilize your core without any harmful exercises. Discovering if you have this condition is the first step to bringing your abs back together and feeling strong and healthy again! About the author: Allison Lambert is the personal trainer behind The Fit Tutor, a site dedicated to making workouts and healthy eating attainable for all women, no matter their schedule or stage of life. She passionately writes about the struggles of living a healthy lifestyle, and includes tips on healthy eating, accountability, and finding time for yourself in motherhood. She has designed a Postpartum Workout Program, including recovery for C-sections and diastasis recti. This Article was brought to you in collaboration with Bellefit, the makers of the best postpartum girdles Founded in 2008 Bellefit® is the most mom-trusted and awarded brand of postpartum girdles corsets for recovery after c-section or natural childbirth. Bellefit® girdles come in five designs made using proprietary compression fabrics. Their unique design features triple-layered reinforced front and back support panels. As a woman-owned company, Bellefit® is no stranger to the challenges new moms face during and after pregnancy. The company helps women feel supported and confident in their changing bodies. Bellefit Girdles

When International model Rose Bertram delivered a healthy baby girl on February 24, she was – and still is – at the prime of her modeling career. Although life in front of the camera began 10 years ago, Bertram’s rising stardom was most recently seen on several magazine covers, including Glamour, Esquire and Vogue. As a model, her job is to look amazing, so Rose Bertram wore a Post Baby Corset to Recover After Pregnancy. As a pregnant mother, Bertram, like most new moms, found herself stressing over the changes she was seeing. Photo Credit: Rose Bertram Instagram “You usually ask yourself the question if you’ll be able to get back in shape,” she posted to her Facebook page. “Well, I was kinda stressed, as it is also my job to be in shape.” She recognized that each journey is personal, with some bodies bouncing back to their pre-pregnancy shapes much quicker than others, but she was eager to take the first step for herself. Photo Credit: Rose Bertram Instagram About Bellefit Maternity Bellefit Maternity understands the physical and emotional toll pregnancy and delivery can have on new moms. That’s why, in 2008, founder Cynthia Suarez developed the company’s first girdle, in response to her own adult daughter’s postpartum suffering. The company’s girdles are different than most on the market, offering leading medical grade products that support and comfort moms. The compression provided by Bellefit Postpartum Girdles and Corsets quickly and comfortably reduce the pregnancy-related excess weight or skin, improve posture, eliminate back pain and allow for an overall faster recovery for the postpartum woman. How Did Rose Learn About Bellefit Girdle Bertram, who’s been with Dutch soccer player Gregory van der Wiel since 2013, discovered the Bellefit benefits five days after giving birth to Naleya Rose. Photo Credit: Rose Bertram Instagram “When Naleya was born, I needed support for my belly because it felt weak and, as a mom, you don’t get a break,” she said. “You have to take care of your baby and yourself. I wore the Bellefit Corset and it did two amazing things for me: It made me feel supported and it helped me get my belly back in shape in record time!” Photo Credit: Rose Bertram Instagram Bellefit Results She began wearing a size large, sized down to a medium very quickly and was wearing a small in a matter of just 30 days. Bertram has an impressive social media presence and, at just five days postpartum, posted a photo on Instagram showing her nearly flat tummy, along with a second photo wearing the Bellefit corset. Just five days later, at 10 days postpartum, Bertram was thrilled to post a story to Instagram, amazed at the rapid results. Photo Credit: Rose Bertram Instagram “Thanks to Bellefit Maternity, I got some good results being five days postpartum,” she said. “Wearing this corset has helped me put everything back into place, as well as giving me great recovery!” As an added bonus, she said that a combination of coconut oil and the gentle pressure of the corset also helped her stretch marks nearly disappear, which will certainly benefit her modeling career, as well as her future in the film industry, an ambition that she plans to pursue. Photo Credit: Rose Bertram Instagram Rose Bertram encourages new moms to try the Bellefit products after giving birth. Those who do can enter her special code, rose20, for $20 off at Bellefit.com Bellefit Products