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What is a Postpartum Binder?

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers

Many women worry about getting back to their original weight and shape after having a baby, and there are various products on the market that claim to help. One such product is the postpartum binder, which is meant to be worn daily to gently and gradually help the body return to its pre-pregnancy shape. Most binders are specifically meant to be worn around the stomach, but some also help push the hips back to their original width. They are usually considered safe to wear just days after delivery, but it is usually advised that women consult their doctor first just to be sure.

A postpartum stomach binder can help push organs back into place, as they typically become displaced during pregnancy. It can also help the uterus shrink back to its normal size, as it often takes up a lot of room in the stomach just after the birth. The stretched out stomach muscles should also flatten out with the help of this kind of girdle. Additionally, this article of clothing can help loose skin get back to its normal level of elasticity so that it is not hanging over clothes for months or even years after the birth of the baby. Finally, back support is also one of the benefits of this item, as it can help straighten out the back after pregnancy, improving posture and easing the aches and pains associated with a postpartum back.

It's best for a woman to consult with a doctor before wearing a postpartum binder.
It's best for a woman to consult with a doctor before wearing a postpartum binder.

The stomach is not the only body part that often expands during pregnancy. The hips tend to widen a bit, and even turn out to the sides in order to make delivery possible. Women who do not want this permanent reminder of their childbearing years may choose to wear a postpartum binder that compresses the hip area once they are done having children. It may take months or even years of wearing it, but most women should notice a reduction in their hip measurements over time.

A woman's hips tend to widen in order to make delivering a baby possible.
A woman's hips tend to widen in order to make delivering a baby possible.

Without a postpartum binder, the stomach will still shrink naturally, but it may occur more gradually than it would while wearing this type of girdle. The results of the postpartum binder will likely not be obvious right away when it is taken off, but it should create a slimmer waist temporarily while it is worn under clothes. There are a few sizes of the postpartum binder on the market, and it is advised that women measure their stomach and hips just after delivery to determine the best size they need.

Discussion Comments

Esther11

I don't know how comfortable a postpartum binder would be. I remember the days when you had to wear a girdle to keep up your nylon stockings. And those girdles were not very comfortable at all.

I guess any new mother would have to decide whether or not to hide her protruding stomach with a belt, or just not be concerned about her body shape for a while.

PinkLady4

I don't think I have ever known anyone who wore a postpartum binder after having a baby. I'm sure it's helpful if you have to dress up soon after delivery. Also, it probably feels more comfortable having something to hold your organs and excess skin in until they shrink or until you can start exercising.

I was very lucky, with both my kids. I somehow avoided gaining very much extra weight and my babies were pretty small, so I didn't have much trouble shrinking down.

ElizaBennett

I never tried a postpartum binder for support, but I can see how it could be a lifesaver if you had to look presentable just a few weeks after delivery for some reason. It does take about 6 weeks for your uterus to return to its normal size (losing the extra weight is a whole 'nother issue).

But the best way to get your belly to shrink faster is to breastfeed! This encourages uterine contractions that help return the uterus to its pre-pregnant size. I remember when my first baby was born, that's how I knew he was latched on correctly - I felt my belly seize up!

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    • It's best for a woman to consult with a doctor before wearing a postpartum binder.
      By: WavebreakMediaMicro
      It's best for a woman to consult with a doctor before wearing a postpartum binder.
    • A woman's hips tend to widen in order to make delivering a baby possible.
      By: Tyler Olson
      A woman's hips tend to widen in order to make delivering a baby possible.
    • Some women may choose to wear a postpartum binder after they are done having children.
      By: bonninturina
      Some women may choose to wear a postpartum binder after they are done having children.