Benefits of Using an Abdominal Belly Wrap After a Hysterectomy 

Recovery from any surgery can be difficult, painful, and emotionally exhausting—and a hysterectomy is no exception. This major surgery can leave you feeling weak and result in significant hormonal changes, as well. Luckily, there are several ways to aid your recovery, including belly wrapping. Research has shown that using an abdominal binder after hysterectomy can be beneficial for increased mobility, decreased pain, and overall wellness.  

Let’s take a look at what a hysterectomy entails, how abdominal binding can be helpful during post-op recovery, and what type of belly wraps to consider.  
 

What is a hysterectomy? 

A hysterectomy is a surgical removal of the uterus. There are different types of hysterectomies; a partial hysterectomy removes the uterus but leaves the cervix intact, while a total hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix. In some cases, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, certain lymph nodes, and even part of the vagina may be removed, as well. This surgery can be performed laparoscopically, vaginally, or through an incision in the abdomen. 

For many women, getting a hysterectomy may improve their health, especially if the reason for surgery is due to endometriosis, painful fibroids, or abnormal bleeding. After the uterus is removed, the surrounding organs in the body simply fill the empty space. Most patients will need to begin hormone replacement therapy after a hysterectomy, as well, since removing reproductive organs can throw off hormone levels. 

Learn more about recovering from a hysterectomy here.  

Should I wear a belly band after hysterectomy?  

Be sure to consult with your doctor before you begin wearing an abdominal binder and throughout your recovery period if you notice any redness or skin irritation. But if you’re wondering, “Can I wear a belly band after a hysterectomy?” the answer is typically yes!  

Benefits of Wearing an Abdominal Binder After a Hysterectomy 

Unless your doctor says otherwise, a hysterectomy belly band can be a helpful tool in recovery. While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of wearing an abdominal binder after hysterectomy, some studies have shown it can reduce pain and psychological distress. Your doctor may even prescribe a belly wrap after surgery, or you may wake up from surgery already wearing one for support.  

Aside from easing discomfort and pain, wearing a belly binder after hysterectomy may also help:  

• Secure abdominal muscles in place 
• Support core muscles 
• Increase mobility 
• Reduce swelling 
• Increase circulation 

Risks of Wearing a Belly Band After a Hysterectomy  

1. Skin Irritation or Chafing: 

   Wearing a belly band for extended periods can cause skin irritation or chafing, especially if the material is not breathable or is too tight. 

   - Prevention Tip: Choose a belly band made of soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic materials, such as viscose from bamboo. Ensure it fits snugly but not too tight. Take breaks from wearing the band to allow the skin to breathe. 

2. Excessive Pressure on Incisions: 

   Applying too much compression on the incision site can interfere with healing and cause discomfort. 

   - Prevention Tip: Opt for a belly band that offers gentle compression and is adjustable. Make sure to adjust the compression level as your body heals. Always consult with your doctor about the appropriate time to start wearing a belly band post-surgery. 

3. Breathing Difficulties: 

   Wearing a belly band too tightly may restrict abdominal movement, making it harder to breathe deeply. 

   - Prevention Tip: Ensure the band is fitted properly—tight enough to offer support but loose enough to allow for full, comfortable breaths. Avoid wearing the band while lying down or during periods of rest unless advised by a doctor. 

4. Muscle Weakness: 

   Over-reliance on the belly band for support may cause the abdominal muscles to weaken over time, slowing recovery. 

   - Prevention Tip: Use the belly band in combination with a doctor-recommended physical therapy or core-strengthening program. Wear it only during active periods and gradually reduce usage as your core muscles strengthen. 

5. Prolonged Use Could Lead to Poor Circulation: 

   Wearing a tight belly band for extended periods may compress blood vessels, leading to reduced circulation. 

   - Prevention Tip: Avoid wearing the belly band for too many hours at a time. Follow a schedule recommended by your healthcare provider, and adjust the tightness regularly to maintain good circulation. Ensure the band doesn’t feel too tight around your lower abdomen. 

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice to prevent complications during your recovery from a hysterectomy. 

How to Choose the Best Belly Wrap  

All of Belly Bandit’s Belly Wraps are expertly designed to provide comfortable and supportive compression. Here are two of our favorites.  

- Luxe Belly Wrap: This is our most popular option, featuring a patented corset-inspired design that offers the highest level of targeted compression. With SecureStretch™ fabric and Stayput™ Technology, the Luxe Belly Wrap stays in place and molds to your body for maximum support and comfort. It’s ideal for women seeking maximum core recovery and all-around support. 

- B.F.F. Belly Wrap: Also a fan favorite, the B.F.F. Belly Wrap stands out with its dual closure tabs, offering a highly customizable fit. This feature allows for adjustability as your body changes, giving you the flexibility to tighten or loosen the wrap as needed. It's designed to provide both comfort and support for your recovery journey, with an emphasis on ease of wear. 

Both the Luxe and B.F.F. wraps provide excellent options for recovery, offering unparalleled support with a focus on comfort and functionality. 

Learn how to wear a belly band here. 

FAQs about Post-Hysterectomy Abdominal Binders 

How long should I wear an abdominal belly wrap after a hysterectomy?  

Your doctor will let you know how long to wear a belly band after having a hysterectomy. For a traditional total hysterectomy, six weeks is a typical recovery time frame. During these six weeks, your hysterectomy belly band can help with your mobility, comfort, and support. Just be sure to keep your belly wrap clean and dry to prevent infection and skin irritation. (Our Belly Shield is designed to help with this!) 

Will the Belly Bandit belly wrap provide compression after hysterectomy? 

Yes! All of Belly Bandit’s Belly Wraps provide 360° compression that is comfortable and supportive. Using this type of compression after surgery can help improve circulation and help you feel more like yourself.  

Will a belly wrap help flatten my tummy? 

Lots of women have noted that wearing a belly wrap helps flatten their tummy. Belly Bandit’s Belly Wraps provide targeted compression that smoothes and shapes your tummy, waist and hips. 

Are belly wraps for hysterectomy reimbursable with health insurance? 

Depending on your coverage, a belly binder after hysterectomy may be eligible for insurance reimbursement. Belly Bandit’s Belly Wraps are HSA and FSA approved, and if your doctor prescribes an abdominal binder after hysterectomy, it will likely be covered by insurance.  

Let's wrap it up ... 

Using an abdominal binder after a hysterectomy can be beneficial to recovery. Abdominal binders like a Belly Bandit Belly Wrap can help ease pain and discomfort, promote mobility, improve circulation, and support your core while you heal from major surgery. These wraps may also be covered by insurance and should be worn for up to six weeks, or as long as your doctor recommends. The most important thing is to make sure your hysterectomy belly band fits comfortably and securely and stays clean.