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.
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.
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.