C-Section Recovery Belt - Benefits, Side Effects, and What Research Says

C-Section Recovery Belt - Benefits, Side Effects, and What Research Says

Once you have the biggest joy of your life in your hands, it brings immense happiness to your life. But, at the same time, it takes a toll on your body. As much as you want to rush to the gym or do some rigourous exercises with a bump, it’s not feasible given the current state of the body. 

That’s when the C-section recovery belt comes to rescue you to direct you towards the right recovery. 

What is C-Section Recovery Belt Used For?

A C-section recovery belt is a wide compression binder that does the job of comfortably encircling the abdomen to relieve some of the discomforts post-C section surgery. The C section belt is available in a range of sizes & widths, you can choose one that suits your body. Most of the C section belts have elastic or hook & loop closures. 

It is recommended by doctors worldwide to speed up the recovery phase after the C-section surgery. 

If your doctor has not prescribed, you can consult them to know whether wearing an abdominal binder is safe for you.

What Are The Benefits of the C-Section Recovery Belt?

  • Wearing a C-section belt helps in relieving postoperative pain.
  • It lowers the distress level that happens from the C-section surgery.
  • The C-section belt promotes deep breathing.

After Your C Section Surgery, a Recovery Belt is Meant To:
  • Relieve pain
  • Getting you moving.
  • Reduce swelling
  • Supporting the surgical incision

Although, there are not many in-depth studies and surveys highlighting the benefits of wearing a C-section belt. A 2014 study revealed that abdominal belts play a crucial role in reducing physiological distress, and pain after the operation. Many women suggest C section belts improve overall mobility after surgery. 

Women use an abdominal belt post vaginal childbirth to lose weight and shrink the uterus. However, there is no scientific evidence that binding can get your belly back in shape post-pregnancy. The C section belts may lower the risk of DVT because it increases mobility after the surgical treatment.

How to Use a C-Section Belt After Surgery?

You may wake up wearing anesthesia after the C-section surgery. An abdominal belt can be worn for up to six weeks or the entire duration of your recovery. As the abdominal region heals, the belt can be worn less frequently. 

You can purchase an abdominal belt at a local drug store or medical store. When buying a C-section belt, choose the right size. To measure the size, determine the widest part of the body that the belt will cover. It is usually the hips. 

Wear the abdomen belt under the clothes, with closure at the front. Make sure the belt is snug-fit. But, at the same time, it need not be too tight, it must be breathable. 

The C-Section belt has to be clean & dry. If it is dirty, then it can cause skin irritation or infection. Most of the C-section belts can be spot-cleaned and air-dried. Do follow the instructions of the manufacturer. 

Risks and Warnings With C Section Belts

What are the Risks Associated with Wearing an Abdominal Belt?
  • Wearing a C-section belt may cause some discomfort.
  • You may find breathing a little difficult. 
  • The belt may lead to some skin irritation.

Wearing a C-section recovery belt is comfortable for most women, some may find it hot and slightly uncomfortable initially. Although it is used to ease pain, sometimes compression may cause pain around the surgical area. There is no scientific research that suggests abdominal belts improve or worsen breathing. 

C section belts may lead to an allergic reaction, itching, or any other type of skin irritation. To reduce the risk of skin infection, buy a belt made out of hypoallergenic fabric.

Finally, it is advised to research well to choose the right C section belt. Buy one which is safe to use, and ensure that it is seamless to provide maximum movement & flexibility. Check out the online reviews of the best C-section belts to make a well-informed decision. You can always talk to your friend if they have recently tried the C section belt. 

The Bottom Line

If used correctly, C section belts help in your vaginal childbirth recovery. It helps in strengthening the core muscles and reduces pain. If the abdominal belt has been prescribed by the doctor, then the insurance policy may cover the cost of the belt.

Before using it, talk to your doctor about whether a C-section belt is right for you or not. Make sure you follow the guideline of your doctor on how long to wear the belt. If you notice any swelling or unnecessary pressure, talk to your doctor right away. 

If you have worn the C section belt earlier, share your experience in the blog comment section. Our readers would find your advice highly valuable to decide upon the purchase. 

 

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