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Cradling your new bundle of joy after many hours of laboring away (not to mention many months to get them there) is indescribable. And while you’re still enjoying the glow of holding your newborn, you’re also sore, exhausted, and maybe thinking of what comes next in your postpartum journey.

First off, remember what you just accomplished — your body is amazing! Remember that it’s normal and healthy for your body to be different after giving birth than it was before. It took you 9 months to grow your baby, so it’s common to take at least as long to get back to “normal” — whatever that means.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, it’s common for many people to feel mostly recovered from labor and delivery within 6 to 8 weeks, but you shouldn’t be surprised if total recovery is longer.

This is due to a wide range of factors, including: fluctuating hormones, changes in your sleep patterns (to put it mildly!), and, of course, the myriad adjustments that accompany life with a newborn.

Plus, if you’re breastfeeding or chestfeeding, you’ll continue to need extra calories and hydration the whole time your little one is getting the amazing benefits of your milk.

The postpartum girdle is a popular option if you need more support for your abdomen.

These garments should provide gentle support and compression. Nothing that offers compression should be so tight that it feels difficult to breathe or as though you have a limited range of motion. Wearing a girdle that’s too tight can pose health risks.

Just keep in mind: Seeking the help of a physical therapist or another healthcare professional who specializes in postpartum healing (such as for diastasis recti or pelvic floor problems, like urinary incontinence) will typically be far more effective than just buying a commercially available girdle.

“A girdle can provide support, but it won’t strengthen your core muscles for you.”

We have selected some of the tried-and-true options for a variety of situations if you choose to add a postpartum girdle to your recovery plan.

“When you picture this garment, are you thinking of your grandmother? This isn’t the same thing as the concept.”

“A post-pregnancy girdle is more than just improving your appearance in clothing, it’s also about more than that. The garment is designed to fit around your belly to aid in recovery.”

There are some benefits to wearing a postpartum girdle.

  • Promoting recovery from birth.
  • Encouraging blood flow.
  • Mobility and posture are improved.
  • Reducing back pain is something that can be done.
  • Your floor is stabilizing.
  • It is important to provide support to your abdominal muscles to help with stability or make workouts more comfortable.
  • Reducing swelling and fluid retention is done.

In particular, a postpartum girdle can be ideal for those recovering from cesarean deliveries and those with diastasis recti.

C-section recovery

childbirth is hard on your body The recovery from a C-section can be harder than usual, as the surgery required multiple layers of muscle and tissue to access the uterus. People who have cesarean deliveries experience more pain, bleeding, and discomfort.

But one small 2017 study noted that using a postpartum girdle helped people who had cesarean deliveries experience less pain, bleeding, and discomfort than those recovering from cesarean deliveries who opted not to use one.

Diastasis recti recovery

Diastasis recti is a very common condition that happens when your abdominal muscles separate as your belly expands during pregnancy — and they remain separated after childbirth.

For most people, their abdominal muscles will close naturally within a month or two after giving birth. However, wearing a postpartum girdle can help speed up the recovery process thanks to the gentle compression the girdle provides.

It can be difficult to find a postpartum girdle that is safe for use and that meets your needs. We prioritized the criteria to narrow down our choices.

  • It is easy to use.
  • comfort
  • Construction work.
  • price
  • The product was endorsed or supported by research conducted by a medical organization.
  • People who are pregnant have online reviews.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $25
  • $$ = $25–$49
  • $$$ = over $50

Best girdles for cesarean delivery recovery

Loday 2 in 1 Postpartum Recovery Belt

Price: $

Not everyone can afford a quality postpartum girdle. The benefits of a longline girdle can be obtained with the Loday 2 in 1 Postpartum Recovery Belt.

The belt is made of latex and slides on, instead of using a strap or a closure, because who has time for that nonsense when you have a newborn? The option is available in two colors and is available in sizes from small to large.

Pros

  • The price of the girdle is affordable.
  • It is available in nude and black shades.
  • The girdle is easy to put on as there are no frills.

Cons

  • People with larger bodies may have trouble getting into the girdle.
  • The girdle is hand-wash only.
Shop now at Amazon

Bellefit Corset Postpartum Girdle

Price: $$$

If money is less of an issue, the Bellefit Corset Postpartum Girdle could be an option for parents healing from a cesarean delivery. This longline girdle relies on Eye and hook closures. on the front abdominal and crotch to provide complete 360-degree support across your midsection, back, and pelvic floor.

This option is registered with the FDA as a medical device, especially for recovery from cesarean delivery, and to aid in strengthening your core. It comes in a variety of sizes, as it comes in 3XL throughXS.

Even though this is one of the few total support girdles on our list, a common complaint is that the crotch strap is too short.

Pros

  • The range of sizes for the girdle is broad.
  • It is a medical device.
  • The support throughout the midsection is provided by the girdle.

Cons

  • The crotch strap is shorter than usual.
  • The girdle is more expensive.
Shop now at Amazon

Best budget-friendly postpartum girdles

AltroCare Postpartum Abdominal Binder

Price: $

Depending on the style of a postpartum girdle, you can end up feeling like you need an instruction manual just to get into it. The AltroCare Postpartum Abdominal Binder is designed to be stretchy girdle with a straightforward design. It also features medical-grade Construction work. and can accommodate waist sizes from 30 to 75 inches.

Pros

  • A reduced topstitching is used for a more comfortable fit.
  • The girdle is machine washed.
  • It is one of the most affordable options.

Cons

  • This is a small girdle.
  • The material may be itchy.
Shop now at Amazon

Best girdle for diastasis recti

Boujee Baby Belly Band

Price: $$

If you have diastasis recti, it is important to not put strain on your abdominal muscles. A postpartum girdle that offers full compression across your entire abdominal region can help remind you to move in ways that support healing. The baby belly band is designed to be used during and after delivery.

It starts as a maternity wrap to support you during your maternity leave. This product was created to reduce pressure on the abdominal wall and provide support for pregnant women, which may reduce their risk of developing diastasis recti. It becomes a girgle after you give birth to help support your core.

“It can be wrapped around your midsection. It is essential to healing from diastasis recti that you avoid activities that will further strain your abdominal wall and do safe core strengthening exercises. A postpartum girdle can help you maintain good posture and be gentle with the muscles in your healing belly, even if it doesn’t heal them themselves.”

This girdle is also one-size-fits-most with the ability to support folks size XS through 7X.

Pros

  • A full compression girdle is required across your abdominal region.
  • The design works as a maternity belt and a postpartum girdle.
  • The band is designed to accommodate a wide side range from XS through 7X.

Cons

  • The band is made of latex.
  • It is not clear how you wash and care for this belly band.
Shop now at Boujee Hippie

Best postpartum girdle for people with more weight

Everyday Medical Plus Size Abdominal Binder

Price: $

If you are trying to juggle caring for a newborn while taking care of yourself, multiple straps might be intimidating. The Everyday Medical Plus Size Abdominal Binder is an option for those who want to simplify.

The postpartum girdle is a one-strap, four-panel, postpartum design that is 12 inches long and fully covers your midsection. The company says that it is lightweight and discreet under clothing. It should be comfortable for extended periods of wear.

The product is praised by the majority of customers, but a few mention concerns about its durability, as they noticed minor tearing in the seams or issues with the Velcro closure.

Pros

  • The design of the girdle may be easier to understand.
  • The four-panel design is made to increase compression.
  • The design is not obvious beneath clothing.

Cons

  • Reviewers said this girdle has a tendency to shift throughout the day.
  • The product is not high quality and has issues with the Velcro.
Shop now at Amazon

Best supportive postpartum girdle

Motif Medical Postpartum Recovery Garment

Price: $$

The FDA-approved solution to give you well-rounded support is the Motif Medical Postpartum Recovery Garment. The company says that the girdle is ideal for recovery from vaginal and cesarean deliveries, and helps support your joints.

The zips on either side of the girdle make it easy to get into. Some people might find it uncomfortable that this pick combines shoulder straps with compression shorts. Reviewers noted that the thighs were loose and that they rolled up.

You can choose your size based on your pre-pregnancy pant size. The garment should be hung up to dry if it is machine washed, but should be run in cold water on a gentle cycle.

The garment is also available on Amazon — but at the time of publication, it was considerably more expensive than directly from Motif Medical.

Pros

  • The longline cut is used for full compression.
  • Side-zip Construction work. makes the girdle worth considering for those experiencing cesarean delivery recovery.
  • The built-in straps are supposed to keep it in place.
  • This is a girdle that may be eligible for insurance coverage.

Cons

  • The thigh fabric is loose for some.
  • The fabric on the thighs could roll up.
Shop now at Motif Medical

Best postpartum girdle for bloat

UpSpring Baby Shrinkx Belly Bamboo Charcoal Belly Wrap

Price: $$

Your body can heal better if you have better circulation. The bamboo charcoal Belly Wrap is said to help improve circulation. The classic Velcro fastenings allow you to adjust the compression to your needs. The postpartum girdle is used with vaginal birth recovery.

It is bulky and visible under clothing, one of the complaints with this girdle. The fabric was not very absorbent, making it impractical for use on your skin.

Pros

  • The fastening is made with a piece of Velcro.
  • The girdle can be tailored to your liking.
  • The company claims that it will help boost circulation.

Cons

  • The size range may not be able to accommodate all bodies.
  • The girdle is bulky, which may make it visible beneath clothing.
Shop now at Amazon

Best splurge postpartum girdle

Belly Bandit Viscose from Bamboo Belly Wrap

Price: $$$

The Belly Bandit Viscose from Bamboo Belly Wrap is designed to be ultra-soft, and utilizes Belly Wrap technology, according to the company. It’s meant to focus on your core midsection with gentle compression, and features an adjustable and removable Velcro closure. It’s available in sizes XS through XL and also comes with 6 inches of adjustability to help accommodate your changing shape as you progress through your postpartum period.

If this one seems on the pricier end, keep in mind that many insurance companies may reimburse you the cost of Belly Bandit products with a prescription from your healthcare provider.

Pros

  • Users may find it more comfortable with the latex-free design.
  • The Belly Bandit is eligible for reimbursement.
  • There are sizes available in the X through the Y.

Cons

  • There is limited size support for mothers with more weight.
  • It is morecier than many other options.
Shop now at Amazon

Product Price Sizes Colors Closure Care
Loday 2 in 1 Postpartum Recovery Belt $ XS-XL nude, black pull-on hand-wash only
Bellefit Postpartum Girdle Corset $$$ XS-3XL nude hook & eye, snaps hand-wash only
AltroCare 3 Panel 9″ High Postpartum Abdominal Binder $ S-2XL white hook & eye machine washable
Boujee Baby Belly Band $$ one size brown wrap unspecified
Everyday Medical Plus Size Abdominal Binder $ 2X-3X black Velcro hand-wash only
Motif Medical $$ 00-2 to 20-22 nude side zip machine washable, gentle cycle
Upspring ShrinxBelly Postpartum Belly Wrap $$ S/M, L/XL black Velcro hand-wash only
Belly Bandit Viscose from Bamboo Belly Wrap $$$ XS-XL black, white Velcro hand-wash only

Waist trainers are corsets that are worn over the midsection and use hooks and eye closures to create the illusion of a sculpted figure. They have a reputation for making bold claims of weight loss and shaping, or training, your waist into the desired silhouette.

But under medical review, these undergarments don’t stand up to the hype. While they can create the visual effect of slimming your middle, they don’t provide long-term weight loss or shaping benefits. They can actually damage your internal organs, reduce your lung capacity, and lead to other health problems.

A postpartum girdle is designed with support in mind. The garments are worn around the belly and upper hip to support the core and Pelvic floor. It is supposed to be gentle and targeted to hold your muscles and ligaments in place and speed recovery after childbirth.

At least one medical study from 2012 showed that using postpartum girdles can help you safely strengthen your core over time, especially when used in combination with physical therapy.

The best way to help your body recover after birth is to:

  • You have heard it before, but try to sleep when they sleep!
  • eat healthy food
  • drink a lot of water.

If you decide to add a postpartum girdle to your recovery plan, be sure to keep in mind the following:

Price

It is not necessary to spend a lot to find a quality post-partum girdle. Depending on your budget, there are full coverage models available.

Ease of use

One of three options will be found in most girdles.

  • Pull-on style.
  • Eye and hook closures.
  • The Velcro closures are made of fabric.

The type you pick will depend on which is easiest for you. A Pull-on style. is awesome if you don’t want to fumble with closures. But The Velcro closures are made of fabric. can be ideal if you want to quickly adjust your compression levels.

Good luck if you want to get in and out of your girdle quickly, but if you want a secure fit, you should use a hook and eye closure.

For a girdle to be effective, look for options that will stay in place.

Size

Many brands offer a choice of letter sizes, with traditional letter size (XS to X) or precise numerical measurement being the most common. It is a good idea to compare your measurements against the size charts offered by the brand.

Between the two sizing options, numerical measurements will always be more precise than lettered sizing. Keep in mind that a postpartum girdle should fit snugly but should never restrict your ability to breathe or impact your range of motion.

Style

The most common styles are longline and midsection. A longline girdle begins below your bust and ends in the middle of your hips. If you want to improve your posture or if you are recovering from a caesarean delivery, this is a great option.

A midsection style is great for general support and can be a better alternative for someone who feels a longline style is too restrictive. Consumer reviews show that longline styles are better at staying in place than midsection-specific girdles.

Material

“When shopping for a postpartum girdle, always look for materials that are Breathable. Breathable fabrics allow sweat to evaporate. These fabrics don’t trap water on your skin.”

Natural fabrics like bamboo-based viscose tend to offer better breathability, which is essential as more pronounced sweating is common during the first few weeks after birth.

If you’re recovering from a cesarean delivery, look for options that have moisture-wicking and breathability to help with incision healing.

“If you have concerns about your recovery, it is better to consult with a physical therapist or healthcare professional who specializes in women’s health.”

You know your body best even though you have changed as you heal and recover from a baby.

There are a few signs that you should seek professional care. If you are passing large clot or are experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding, you should seek medical attention.

Other symptoms that indicate you should seek professional help are also present.

  • It can be chills and/or a disease.
  • A person can faint or be dizzy.
  • There is a persistent headaches or vision changes.
  • It can be painful or difficult to urinate.
  • Difficult breathing, chest pain, heart palpitations, and other symptoms.
  • There is either a swollen or weepy incision.
  • The abdominal pain is getting worse.
  • It can be swollen or painful.
  • Increased swelling in other areas.

Is it possible that postpartum girdles really work?

There are limited studies on the efficacy of postpartum girdles, but anecdotal research from real parents suggests that these garments offer benefits after giving birth.

The support that girdles provide is designed to improve posture and stability. They give gentle compression that may help in recovery after birth.

“Make sure that the girdle is not so tight that you can’t breathe or move. Negative health consequences can be caused by wearing a compression garment that is too tight.”

How long should I wear a bra?

Experts suggest wearing a girdle for at least 30 days to boost recovery. There is no hard and fast rule for how to best care for your baby. Listen to your body and consult medical professionals as needed.

When should I start wearing a bra?

“If you don’t have any problems after the delivery, you can wear a postpartum girdle.”

If you have any issues, speak with your physician or midwife to determine when you can begin wearing a girdle, and if there are any special considerations you need to take into account.

Does wearing a girfriend flatten your stomach?

“A girdle can help to speed up the process of closing your abdominal muscles after giving birth. You can’t assume that the girdle will do all the work.”

If you want to get a flatter stomach, you will want to work with your healthcare team to incorporate safe exercise into your routine as you progress through the first few months after birth.

Is the belly wrap worth it?

Users say that belly wraps can be helpful in aiding in your recovery after a baby is born, but they are not a cure-all solution. They can provide support and compression, but you need to strengthen your core muscles to recover.

You need to allow yourself a lot of time to get back into shape. As you discover your new body, be gentle with yourself.

Regardless of how you delivered your baby, the road to recovery during your postpartum period can be intense. But a quality postpartum girdle — along with the advice of your doctor, midwife, or physical therapist — may help give you the support you need to get back to an active life and to heal properly from labor and birth.