Post-Cesarean Section Bandage

What is a postpartum bandage?

The function of any bandage is to support temporarily weakened muscles. Before childbirth, it is designed to help carry a heavy belly. And once the event has occurred, the role changes, especially if childbirth was through a cesarean section. An elastic belt equipped with special inserts, fasteners, and tighteners, in short, a post-cesarean section bandage, helps a mom to:

• reduce muscle strain;
• lower physical loads;
• speed up the tissue regeneration process;
• disturb the abdominal muscles less during healing;
• not worry about internal organs possibly descending.

Many women who were recommended by their doctor to wear a postpartum bandage after a cesarean note better appearance and less visible scar.

Who needs a cesarean section bandage and who doesn’t

A cesarean section postpartum bandage is not necessary for all women, and is contraindicated for some. It should not be worn on one’s own initiative; a doctor’s consultation is necessary. It is generally more strongly recommended if there were complications during the operation. Others may wear it if the doctor does not see any obvious contraindications.

Wearing a cesarean section bandage is not allowed if:

• the incision is inflamed or festering;
• the woman feels pain in the lower abdomen;
• the skin in the area under the bandage is unhealthy: dermatitis, eczema, irritation, etc.;
• there is swelling – in this case, the kidneys should not be compressed;
• the mother is feeling unwell due to intestinal problems (bloating, constipation, or diarrhea);
• an allergy to the material from which the bandage is made is identified.

There are different types of bandages

If the cesarean was planned, a bandage can be purchased in advance. However, in the case of an emergency operation, the mother has the opportunity to choose the optimal model, each of which has its own advantages:

• “belt” – wide, elastic, covers the abdomen up to the hips, effectively prevents hernia and helps form a small, neat scar;
• “pantaloons” – worn like underwear, invisible under clothing, convenient at home and on walks;
• “bermudas” – with a high waist and shorts extending to mid-thigh or even to the knees, among other things, helps with weight reduction and prevents cellulite;
• “mini-skirt” – a ring of elastic material with the upper edge above the waist and the lower edge at mid-thigh level, tightly supports internal organs, and tightens muscles.

The belt is considered the most versatile, but the other models are easier to put on.

What to consider when choosing?

Besides the model, it’s important to correctly determine the main parameters of the postpartum bandage after a cesarean section so that it provides benefits and doesn’t cause discomfort.

1. Size. It makes sense to focus on the standard clothing sizes that the woman wore before giving birth.
2. Material. Synthetics are cheaper, but they allow less airflow. Cotton, lycra, or microfiber is preferable – sufficiently breathable, dense, and elastic.
3. Accessories. It’s better if the bandage has laces, fastenings, and other fittings that help adjust the size, as the body will gradually change and return to normal after childbirth.
4. Comfort. The mother’s personal preference will be determined with the first fitting. The bandage should neither slip down nor overly compress.

How to put on and wear a bandage after a cesarean section?

Wondering how to properly put on and wear a postpartum bandage after a cesarean, mothers want to know if they might harm themselves, as the surgery was so recent. Proper use of this device will help avoid risks.

1. Put on the bandage only while lying down, fastening it from bottom to top.
2. Wear during physical activities, totaling no more than 12 hours a day.
3. Do not wear for more than 3 consecutive hours – take breaks of 20-30 minutes.
4. Never sleep in the bandage at night.
5. The overall duration of wearing is individual, usually up to 6-9 weeks after a cesarean.

A postpartum bandage after a cesarean is therapeutic-corrective wear that helps the body overcome stress faster and return to normal functioning. More detailed information about postpartum bandages can be found in the online course at momslab.com.