To Belt or Not to Belt
Being proactive in your pregnancy is one of the most important things you can do. Keeping your body comfortable and active has been shown to result in easier labor, decreased pain, decreased constipation, improved sleep and decreased risk of perinatal mood disorders. If belly bands help you achieve comfort in your body that is a positive.
I frequently get asked the pros and cons of using a pregnancy belt. So today I want to share my thoughts and the information I provide women so they can make the best decision for themselves.
I want to start this conversation by saying two things: 1. the benefits of belting depends on the individual and 2. Belts may have some benefits for supporting the body but they don’t heal the body.
Here are some key rules you should follow if you wear a belly band/ belt during your pregnancy:
Exercises to strengthen the transverse abdomens should be done in combination with the use of a belly band to strengthen the core muscles during and after pregnancy
Consult a doctor before using a compression garments. Women with compromised circulation or abnormal blood pressure may be advised against wearing them.
A Belly band garment is not a permanent fix so if you are having pelvic floor dysfunction or pain please get a referral to a pelvic floor therapist.
Now that you know the rules let's look at what they could do for you. Belly bands come in all shapes and sizes based on the person’s body and their goals.
Pain is a common complaint during pregnancy. Belly bands can improve pain by supporting the Sacroiliac joint (SI) and/ or the Round ligament. SI pain occurs as a person’s hip becomes more mobile due to the increased relaxin hormone increasing in the body. Round ligament pain is caused by the increased weight and pressure in the uterus. Ideally a belly band will distribute the pressure more evenly therefore relieving some of the pain. But, sometimes putting on a band can improve the pain in one area and result in pain in a different area due to the pressure it is giving. That is why it is important to improve strength at the same time and if a band that works for you.
Gentle compression during activities can provide a comfort. If a belly band allows you be more mobile, which we know improves pain, it is a benefit to wear one. Remember that the compression should feel like a hug. Too much compression can cause decreased circulation, negative effects of blood pressure, heartburn and pelvic floor dysfunction. Think about a balloon, if you squeeze it in the middle it bulges on the top and bottom giving increased pressure down. If your belly band is putting pressure down towards your pelvic floor you have a higher likelihood for prolapse and incontinence.
Pregnancy effects posture. That belly gets heavy and starts effecting our back and standing posture as pregnancy progresses. The change in posture can really effect our balance so a belly band can give some external cues to maintain a better posture and reduce the chance of falling.
You may be overwhelmed with the amount of options you have for belly bands, here are the products that I recommend to my patients:
Mom EZ Maternity Belt
I encourage women to start wearing this in their second trimester through delivery. This helps support the lower back, stabilizes the pelvis, reduces pain and keeps you active. Wearing this consistently has better effects than if you just wear it when you are hurting
V2 support
Due to increased fluid and blood flow during pregnancy, you may experience vaginal swelling which causes an achy or heaviness feeling. For women experiencing this I recommend the V2 to get extra support in the vaginal area. Wear it over your underwear but underneath your clothes. This is also recommended to wear throughout the day not just after you feel achy. The V2 support can also be used for pelvic organ prolapse after pregnancy.
Serola Belt
This is recommended for patients who experience sacroiliac or pubic symphysis pain (you can find more about this diagnosis on the blog titled “SPD'“). This belt is worn around your hip bones, below your belly. It works on relieving pain by increasing the support around your hips. This belt is not recommended to wear all the time but more when you are being active.
If you are dealing with any of the issues discussed in this blog know that there is support for you. Pelvic floor therapists are trained extensively to improve your function and comfort throughout your pregnancy. We would love to help you know the best option for you.
If you are currently pregnant please look to download the 19 page postpartum guide so you feel prepared for delivery and postpartum.
