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How Long Should You Wear An Abdominal Binder After C-Section?
How Long Should You Wear An Abdominal Binder After C-Section?

How Long Should You Wear An Abdominal Binder After C-Section?

What is an abdominal binder?

An abdominal binder is often referred to as a belly wrap or belly band. An abdominal binder supports your belly, waist, and hips while you heal from birth. An abdominal binder is made from soft, breathable material that covers your abdomen from just above your pelvic bone to just below your bra line. Many binders come in various lengths to tailor to your torso length. Also, a binder comes in adjustable widths to provide the perfect amount of compression as your stomach heals. 

Research has shown that wearing an abdominal binder after birth may reduce swelling, improve posture, support your weakened muscles, and decrease healing time. Belly Bandit’s Belly Wraps were ten years in the making to provide the perfect compression and support every woman needs after childbirth. So it is no wonder why their belly wraps are doctor recommended. Their inspiration from the centuries-old traditions of postpartum belly binding gave them a modern take on the belly wrap for all moms today. 

How long should you wear an abdominal binder after a c-section?

Healing from a c-section takes time and patience. An abdominal binder may help you get the support and comfort you need for healing. The healing time for a c-section takes a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks. Therefore, wearing  an abdominal binder for a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks is suggested. However, many women find it helpful to wear it months after. If breastfeeding, the hormone relaxin stays in your system long after six weeks, so wearing your abdominal binder may help support you while your muscles and ligaments are still relaxed and weak. 

When should I start wearing an abdominal binder after c-section?

Abdominal binders will be your best friend while you recover from a c-section. You may begin wearing your abdominal binder as soon as you get the clearance from your doctor. Most women can start wearing their abdominal binder when they leave the hospital. 

Can an abdominal binder be used all day?

Abdominal binders can be worn any time, except while you are sleeping.  Listen to your body if your binder is too tight or irritates your incision. You may need to take breaks if your incision is red or tender to touch while wearing your abdominal binder. 

Tips to wearing an abdominal belly binder

Work your way up to all-day wear. During the first few days after your c-section, you may wear your abdominal binder for 4 to 6 hours daily. This time allows your body to adjust to wearing an abdominal binder and getting used to the feel. After the first few days, you may slowly increase the time frame that you wear your binder and work your way up to 8 to 12 hours of continuous wear. 

An abdominal binder is meant to be tight but not too restrictive. It may be too tight if you are having trouble breathing or feeling pain or discomfort. A good rule of thumb, if you can fit one finger inside your binder, then your binder is not too restrictive. 

Are abdominal belly binders worth it?

Abdominal binders after birth are extremely  beneficial. There are virtually no downsides to wearing an abdominal binder. An abdominal binder will provide continuous compression and support while your body heals from a c-section (or vaginal birth). There are many benefits to wearing after you’ve had a c-section which include: 

  • May help reduce recovery time
  • May help reduce the the risk of Diastasis Recti
  • Provides comfort and compression 
  • Help increase mobility 
  • Provides support for your core muscles as they adjust to pre pregnancy size. 
  • Help improve posture
  • May help offer natural pain relief 
  • Help reduce swelling
  • Help relieve back pain 

How to choose the best abdominal binder

Finding the perfect abdominal binder after a c-section is like finding that lifelong best friend you have known since elementary school. Once you find the right binder for you, you will never want to take it off. When looking for an abdominal binder, it is important to find one that is comfortable, easy to wear, not too restrictive, and cool to your body. Belly Bandit has a variety of binders made with the best materials and various lengths to customize to your body type and needs. All of Belly Bandits Belly Wraps can be used after a c-section and may provide the targeted compression to reduce swelling and promote healing. 

Belly Bandit C-Section Binders and Wraps

Postpartum Luxe Belly Wrap

The Luxe Bandit Belly wrap provides targeted compression and support to help you while you heal. The wrap is designed with Stayput technology to help any unnecessary movement of the wrap as you go about your day. There are two different heights available, regular and petite. It also offers a double closure to adjust with your body as swelling decreases. The luxe belly wrap is the ultimate customized wrap you can find.

B.F.F. Belly Wrap

Inspired by the centuries-old transitions of postpartum belly binding, this B.F.F. Belly wrap may truly be your best friend. The wrap has 9” of adjustable tabs to customize your comfort how you like it. As your belly shrinks pull the tabs tighter to adjust your compression level and tightness around your abdomen. Created with silky-soft viscose fabric from bamboo, the B.F.F. Belly wrap will provide the ultimate comfort you deserve while healing from birth.

Original 

Belly Bandit offers a variety of belly wraps for every budget and need. The Original Belly Wrap is not only budget-friendly, but it is doctor recommended as well. This wrap features a latex-free Power Compression targeted for your core. In addition, there is a 9” adjustable closure so you can tighten your wrap as you size down and heal after birth. As a result, the Original Belly wrap helps to strengthen your core while easing back pain and promoting mobility. 

Viscose from Bamboo

The Viscose from Bamboo belly wrap offers their exclusive, latex-free Power Compress Core and is covered in viscose from bamboo fabric. The wrap may help you slim and support your belly, waist, and hips while healing. It helps promote healing by giving you targeted compression where you need it most. Compression provides many benefits, such as promoting good posture, easing back pain, and promoting mobility. 

Conclusion

Belly Bandit is women-founded and women-operated. They have dedicated over 12 years to ensure they offer the best postpartum products. Belly Bandit has a variety of products to support you during pregnancy, postpartum, and menstruation. This is truly a one-stop shop for all your needs.