News

Hi my name is Faith and I had a baby two weeks ago today. With my first pregnancy I had Diastasis recti pretty badly. I had done abdominal exercises for breathing, I had done the head tilts and nothing seemed to be able to close the gap. I went into my second pregnancy 22 months later knowing that I had diastasis recti and did not want it to get any worse. So I was looking for a product that would help close the gap. I came across Bellefit! I read the reviews, I loved it, I ordered it and it came right away. I started wearing it the day after I came out of the hospital and it is THE most amazing product I have ever come across in my life! It has made such a huge difference! I am back in my pre-pregnancy clothes 2 weeks after delivering my son. It basically is a garment, it closes in the middle, and it goes all the way underneath, it goes all the way underneath and comes up to right about my bra line. It is the most comfortable garment that I've worn, I can wear it all the time, I do, I wear it 24 hours a day unless I'm washing it. Bellefit is a product that I firmly believe in, my family and friends cant get over how amazing my stomach is considering how bad it was after my first pregnancy. It is a product that I strongly and firmly believe in, it is a product I will recommend to anyone I know who will ever deliver a child. It is absolutely amazing and I thank you so much Bellefit! This Article was brought to you in collaboration with Bellefit, the makers of the best https://www.bellefit.com/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 Best Postpartum Girdles

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

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

"The first week I wore it, I noticed a great difference. Not just in the size, measurement of my belly, its also the posture. My back feels better, it feels great. I feel like I could walk around a lot longer the first week. I am sitting properly just wearing it now. I don't want to go a day without wearing the girdle." "I'd like to give my review on the Bellefit. I've had the Bellefit for about a month, I've worn it day and night and to bed and when I'm up and about. The only time I don't wear it is when I wash it. I have purchased two so when I have one that's washing, I have one to wear just so I'm not going a day without wearing the girdle. The first week I wore it, I have noticed a great difference. Not just in the size, measurement of my belly, its also the posture. My back feels better, it feels great. I feel like I could walk around a lot longer the first week. I am sitting properly just wearing it now. I don't want to go a day without wearing the girdle. When I do wash it I wear the other one. I just want to show you which ones I got. The first one I got is the corset style, it has hooks down the middle and all around it's just seamless and it's really great. The Bellefit, both that I bought have a flap so when you go to the washroom its easy to put on and take off so you don't have to take off the whole thing and put it back on. It's very convenient to have that when you go to the wash room. The second one I'm wearing is the side zipper I believe. This one you can't see any seams under the shirt, which is why I got it, it's seamless. This one has three hooks under the zipper and it zips right up and is very easy to put on and does the same job. My friends have given me compliments on how I looked before I revealed to them that I was wearing a girdle. As soon as they found out, they asked me where they could get it and I recommended to them where to purchase it and all that. I just want to tell you that I researched which wrap, which girdles were really good after pregnancy and each and every time I've looked at another product, I've gone back time and time again to Bellefit. That's how I knew it was the right brand for me and I confirmed it when I wore it. Now, a month later, it has given me great results. I would recommend Bellefit time and time again to my family and friends and I recommend it to you

My Post Pregnancy Tummy Recovery Story I had a natural birth, and I started wearing the Corset girdle as soon as I got home from the hospital.I have a before and after picture that shows the dramatic results after just 2 weeks of wearing.Next time I have a baby I am definitely making sure a Bellefit is on my list of things to get.I wore it non-stop, 24/7 for 2 weeks, only taking it off to shower.It started to become like second nature and I actually felt awkward with out it. There is no worse feeling then loose skin around your midsection.I loved how the girdle contained and compressed everything. I accredit it for being the reason for my super fast recovery as well as my shortened period of blood loss. The postpartum corset relieved the bloating and swelling that comes with the post pregnancy tummy faster than had I not used anything, and the convenient hook and eye closure underneath were easy to access when I had to rush to use the bathroom or change pads.The best part is that it never rode up like the other “belly bands” that are not connected.This also provide lower abdominal support which is where you need it most.I wore it under my clothes and people could barely tell I just had a baby.~ Doreen 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 a 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

Every day we hear the most amazing and inspiring postpartum recovery stories from moms who wear a Bellefit maternity girdle from all around the world. We are always so impressed when we see their transformations. We wanted to help spread the word about the exciting benefits of a Bellefit Maternity Girdle. What better way than by sharing these stories with the online mom community? Bellefit is proud to announce that we are honoring Laura H. from Westfield, Indiana as our Postpartum Recovery Featured Mom. First time mom, Laura H., gave birth to a healthy baby boy in May 2013. Laura gained 50 pounds during her pregnancy. Her belly grew so much that it caused a lot of strain on her petite body. Laura began thinking about what her petite body would go through after giving birth, since the size of her belly was bigger than she’d expected. "My belly was HUGE and was giving me so much hip and back pain! For the last two months of my pregnancy, I slept on the couch because I was so uncomfortable.” "So I heard about a woman that had used a maternity girdle . Up until then I didn’t know there was anything like that. I looked online and I came across Bellefit Maternity Girdles. As I was looking at it, I thought ‘Well, I’m probably not gonna buy one of these’." It seemed a little pricey and I thought, ” I don’t want to spend that kind of money for the sake of vanity because I want my body back.” The more I looked at it, the more I read the medical benefits and reviews. I realized that maybe this was an investment that I needed to make. Laura decided to talk to her OB/GYN about her concerns. Her doctor agreed that wearing a maternity girdle would be beneficial for her after giving birth. She purchased a Bellefit Maternity Girdle and had it ready to go before her due date. Laura delivered her 8 lb. 3 oz. baby boy via C-section and soon began to experience pain in both her abdomen and her back. "I began wearing my Bellefit Maternity Girdle 5 days after giving birth to my baby. I wore it everyday, all day and all night. The only time I took it off was to wash it or to take a shower." “I kept it on as much as I could because it felt really good to have it on! It also prevented me from hurting my incision area and my abdomen.” “When you’re moving your baby around, trying to pick him up, or picking up the car seat, all those things put a lot of stress on your mid-section. The Bellefit Maternity Girdle really gave me support and made me feel like I had stability in my core.” Months later, Laura found out that she had a three and a half finger Diastasis Recti. That's separation of the abdominal muscles that commonly happens after pregnancy. Having worn Bellefit to compress her midsection after giving birth, Laura had the support that spared her from further injuring her abdomen. Laura's Maternity Girdle Video Testimony The busy first time mom used her Bellefit maternity girdle as her primary means of postpartum recovery. "I started with a size medium, wore it for 8 or 9 weeks, then I got the small and then ended up ordering the extra small. Looking back, I wish I'd gotten the Bundle to save a little money. I just didn't know how fast I would go down in sizes.” she recalls. "I started out weighing 125 lb. when I was pregnant, I went up to 175 lb. and 3 months after I delivered my baby I weighed about 134 lb. Bellefit really set me in a good path to get back in my original size." “I am happy knowing that I had Bellefit because I would’ve been in big trouble without it”. "I didn’t think that I would ever get out of Yoga pants again! But, Bellefit really helped me get my stability back. It helped get the fluid out, make the swelling go down and get the support that I’d been missing.” As her baby approaches his first birthday in May, Laura is happy to say that her choice to wear a Bellefit maternity girdle after her C-section helped her reclaim her pre-pregnancy shape. She also was able to enjoy a faster full recovery. Today, Laura likes to share her story with other expectant moms and tells them about Bellefit. “As moms we do a lot for everybody else, this is something that you can do for yourself.” "Definitely make the investment. Bellefit really is worth it, it's gonna make you feel so much better." Congratulations Laura!!!! Your Body During Pregnancy Women’s bodies are built to bounce back from pregnancy and childbirth, but the reality is that it can be difficult to “bounce back” and return to pre-pregnancy shape without help. During pregnancy, the body secretes hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and relaxin. They remain in the body after childbirth for approximately six months. These hormones are our body’s way of loosening the abdominal muscles. The facilitate the stretching of the abdominal area by as much as 50%, while the baby grows. What is a Postpartum Girdle? These same hormones also help to loosen the pelvic structure, joints and ligaments to prepare for childbirth. The beauty behind Bellefit ® medical-grade postpartum support garments is that they provide a greater stability for the body after delivery. The compression garments work by drawing in stretched muscles to provide a 360° support structure around the torso. This results in reduced strain on ligaments and joints in the lower back, pelvis, and buttocks. Reducing stress in these areas enhances your body’s ability to return to its pre-pregnancy alignment and shape. It also aids in losing post-baby tummy faster. As shifted and constrained organs return to their pre-pregnancy locations during the first few weeks after a c-section or natural childbirth, Bellefit ® girdles hold you in place allowing for movement with greater confidence. A Bellefit ® postpartum garment is an essential part of a comprehensive postpartum care and c-section recovery plan for both health and confidence. Bellefit Girdles & Corsets

"I ordered my Bellefit about seven months ago before my fourth child was born, he's seven months old now. I got it within a week and I was very pleased with the delivery. I had looked online a lot, a lot of different reviews and Bellefit seemed to have the best postpartum corset. So I ordered it. I started wearing Bellefit about four days after my son was born and I felt so secure in it. It took everything and just put it into place, it held me tight and I felt so confident because it just slimmed me instantly. It's just a great shape. It's easy to go to the bathroom, easy to put on and off by myself. It was comfortable. I would recommend this to anyone and I have already recommended it. Thank you so much." Bellefit Featured Products

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

Aneta's Story "I decided to purchase Bellefit when I was about 36 weeks pregnant. I bought small/corset and extra small/dual closure. Started wearing Bellefit 4 days after my c-section. I have noticed a tremendous improvement in swelling of my belly. I'm amazed with results. As of now, I'm still wearing a small one but hoping to transition to extra small soon! The after pictures were taken 3 weeks postpartum. I look even better now :) Thank you for making this amazing product available to all moms!" Why Bellefit? Women's bodies are built to bounce back from pregnancy and childbirth, but the reality is that it can be difficult to "bounce back" and return to pre-pregnancy shape without help. During pregnancy the body secretes hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and relaxin that remain in the body after childbirth for approximately six months. These hormones are our body's way of loosening the abdominal muscles and they facilitate the stretching of the abdominal area by as much as 50%, while the baby grows. They also act to loosen the pelvic structure, joints and ligaments to prepare for childbirth. The beauty behind Bellefit ® medical-grade postpartum support garments provide a greater stability for the body after delivery. The compression garments work by drawing in stretched muscles to provide a 360° support structure around the torso, thus, reducing strain on ligaments and joints in the lower back, pelvis, and buttocks. Reducing stress in these areas enhances your body's ability to return to its pre-pregnancy alignment, shape and to lose the post baby tummy faster. As shifted and constrained organs return to their pre-pregnancy locations during the first few weeks after c-section or natural childbirth. Bellefit ® girdles hold you in place allowing for movement with greater confidence. A Bellefit ® postpartum garment is an essential part of a comprehensive postpartum care and c-section recovery plan for both health and confidence. Find out which design is best for you.

Mommy Tummy Advice So you've had your baby and now it's time to do crunches to get your abs back in shape again Right? Well, actually no. Here is some sound mommy tummy advice for you: Fitness and exercise after pregnancy is a lot more complicated than that. In fact, exercises like crunches may actually do more harm than good in the initial postpartum period, especially if you have developed a condition known as diastasis-recti. Delay abdominal reconditioning until 4 to 6 weeks postpartum. Avoid lifting and carrying heavy objects. Wearing a Corset after a c-section will protect you from any pain from coughing or sneezing. Wearing a girdle or corset to help you recover faster and be comfortable during this time. If you develop a cough and/or sneezing from allergies or a respiratory illness in the few months after a Cesarean delivery, you will be protected if you wear your postpartum Corset; it will give you the compression you need to provide support for your scar and to help ease discomfort. This Article was brought to you in collaboration with Bellefit, the makers of the best postpartum girdles Founded in 2008 Bellefit® is the most mom-trusted and awarded brand of postpartum girdles & corsets for recovery after c-section or natural childbirth. Bellefit® girdles come in five designs made using proprietary compression fabrics. Their unique design features triple-layered reinforced front and back support panels. As a woman-owned company, Bellefit® is no stranger to the challenges new moms face during and after pregnancy. The company helps women feel supported and confident in their changing bodies. Bellefit Girdles

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

So you've made it past your first trimester of pregnancy and are now entering the ever so blissful, second trimester! From the 13th through the 26th week your fatigue and morning sickness will subside giving you a smoother 3 months. During this time you will want to do some of your planning, decorating, and preparing since your energy levels will be up. Of course, you will also experience a whole other set of changes in your body, just as you did in your first trimester. Here are 7 things you need to know about the second trimester 1. You Will Feel More Energized During your second trimester, be prepared to feel a boost in your energy levels. This is due to the increase in your hormone levels as well as being further along in the pregnancy. Your baby is now past a crucial stage of early development, which allows your body's strength to level out. Enjoy this trimester and take the time to take care of some preparations such as: Maternity clothes shopping Decorating your baby's room Putting together a baby registry Talking with your loved ones about planning your baby shower. 2. The Baby Is Moving and Showing You Their Gender One of the most exciting things about the second trimester is that you can now feel your baby’s movement. Yes, he or she is really in there and they are letting you feel just how much they move around. During this time, it’s also common for many parents to want to find out the gender of their baby during an ultrasound visit. Every couple is different and the reasons for wanting or not wanting to know are many. This decision is totally up to you. 3. People Will Want to Rub Your Belly Now that your beautiful baby bump is noticeable, people will want to rub your belly. As human beings, we are fascinated with the creation of life, and many folks feel drawn to rubbing your belly as an endearing way to connect with or to acknowledge your amazing pregnancy. Although some women are ok with this type of affection, many women feel very uncomfortable with people (especially strangers) rubbing their bellies. This is a choice that is truly personal and you should never feel shy to stop someone from invading your personal space if it makes you uncomfortable. 4. The Beginning of Back Pain Now that you are carrying more weight in your belly, your back will begin to feel a bit of stress. This will cause you to have lower back pain more often. Be sure to never sit or stand for extended periods of time as this can cause the back pain to become stronger. There are trained professionals who offer pregnancy massages, which can offer great relief for back pain, you can also do stretching exercises and get plenty of rest. Always consult with your Doctor before trying any of these options since every woman and every pregnancy is unique. 5. Welcome Appetite, Cravings and Weight Gain Now that your morning sickness has gone away your appetite will return and you will begin to have some interesting pregnancy cravings, which along with your baby’s growth, will contribute to more weight gain during the next few weeks. Enjoy yourself and indulge your cravings, but be sure to always consult with your doctor if you are unsure that what you crave is safe for you and your baby.It helps to eat small meals throughout the day as you will be burning more calories and will sustain your energy levels better by doing so. The weight gain will happen, however, make a conscious attempt to stay continue walking and moving around so that you can have a healthy pregnancy. 6. Heartburn May Linger Unfortunately, heartburn is one of those symptoms that may linger during your second trimester. As your internal organs shift to make room for your expanding uterus, acids may continue to be pushed up through your esophagus and giving you the sour taste of heartburn in your mouth. Thankfully it may no longer be accompanied by nausea and there are things you can do to keep it under control.To prevent and treat heartburn you can: Drink a glass of almond milk Take Tums Avoid eating spicy or greasy foods 7. Your Skin will Change Your skin will change significantly in your second trimester. Now that your baby bump is getting bigger and your skin is stretching, you may begin to notice little stretch marks showing up in different areas of your body. Keep your skin moisturized and drink plenty of fluids to help ease up the advancement of stretch marks. Also keep in mind that after your baby is born, they will fade with time.On the plus side, chances are the skin on your face will look amazing and you will have that beautiful pregnancy glow everyone’s always talking about. 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