Tummy Tuck After Childbirth – Why?

Every mother understands that the recovery process after childbirth will take a lot of time, as it is not the fastest process, not always simple, and, of course, very individual. The muscle tone of the abdomen that existed during the ‘pre-pregnancy’ period will return no sooner than after a year. And many mothers would probably like the process to go at least a little faster. This can be helped.

There is a procedure known as a tummy wrap or binding.

Binding:

1. Supports weakened abdominal muscles (helps with diastasis), tucks in a sagging belly.
2. Helps stabilize the pelvis and supports the LPH (lumbo-pelvic hip complex), reducing excess strain on them.
3. Promotes uterine contraction and reduces pressure on internal organs, as they no longer hang like in a sack.
4. Reduces back pain, as the abdomen and pelvis are interconnected.
5. Promotes optimal elasticity of muscles and ligaments.

By the way, moms who are not breastfeeding can afford to speed up weight loss a little due to greater dietary freedom and permissible physical activities.

Is it possible to wrap the belly after childbirth?

First, we need to clarify terminology, since it can be confusing. After all, even in terms of meaning, these words are completely different. When we wrap the belly, what are we doing? We are compressing it. This should not be done by any means.

Wrapping and tightening the belly after childbirth are completely different things. Just imagine: your belly is now empty and soft, the muscles have lost their former elasticity, and as a result, the belly constantly bulges out, causing a lot of discomfort to the young mother, who has already started thinking about how to lose weight quickly and get back in shape.

So, what NOT to do exactly:

• under no circumstances should you press the belly inward or tighten it too closely – remember about normal blood circulation;
• do not use stiff corset supports (except for special soft corsets designed for this purpose);
• it is forbidden to sleep with a bandaged belly.

The following contraindications exist for belly compression:

• presence of stitches after an episiotomy;
• existing kidney diseases and serious problems with pelvic organs;
• intestinal problems;
• skin burns and fabric allergies.

Many people are interested in whether compression is possible after a cesarean. Yes, a cesarean section is not a contraindication for belly compression, and on the contrary, doctors may even recommend it after this process, for example, suggesting a postpartum belly corset.

Why are the rules for this process so strict? Compression of the abdomen after childbirth should not hinder the comfortable and natural recovery of internal organs, nor should we forget that the uterus needs to contract freely to expel lochia.

This is the difference between binding and tying. With tying, you provide abdominal muscles with support, facilitating their recovery. Binding with a bandage artificially holds them in an unnatural position, provoking spasms and congestion. If you’ve ever worn a bandage dress, you probably know it presses not only on the surface of the body but also on internal organs. Is it worth your health? Definitely not. However, gentle tying positively affects recovery, and further

What are the benefits of tying?

• promotes the firmness of the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles;
• ensures the normalization of displaced organs;
• accelerates the recovery of intra-abdominal pressure.

When and how to bind the belly after childbirth?

You can start binding your belly immediately after childbirth, as soon as doctors allow you to walk. But usually no more than two months after childbirth, while the muscles are still weak, the uterus has not fully contracted, and the organs have not yet returned to their pre-pregnancy positions.

Once more than two months have passed since childbirth, the uterus has contracted, hormonal balance has stabilized, and to further restore the body after childbirth, you can perform proper exercises. For example, from our basic course program. Further strengthening of the entire body will help you recover after childbirth.

This should be done using soft elastic fabric:

• sling – soft elastic fabric;
• elastic fabric – 50 cm wide, 2.5-3 m long;
• a soft scarf approximately 50 cm wide and about 2-3 meters long. Belly binding should be comfortable and soft, so it’s better to choose a fabric that’s the same – elastic and tactilely pleasant for you.

How to perform the binding procedure?

The entire procedure is performed lying down:

• Lie on your back through your side, knees bent, feet on the floor.
• Place the scarf on your belly, spreading the fabric over your entire belly.
• Lift your pelvis off the floor and cross the fabric behind your back. Then bring it forward and again to the back.

Bring the ends of the fabric forward so that they are positioned above the first layer of fabric;

Tie a knot on the side so it does not press on the uterus;

Check how you feel – you should be comfortable. When you stand up, the fabric will tighten, so there’s no need to tie the knot too tightly now;

Without standing up, slip your hands deeply under the fabric and hold your belly from underneath;

Pull it up, placing it under the fabric, thus supporting the belly.

Stand up and check your sensations again: you should be able to fully straighten your back and breathe calmly.

Other options for belly support if wrapping with a scarf is not possible:

– a corset-bandage in the form of panties with a high waist. They provide excellent support for the belly, pelvis, and pelvic floor area. However, they should not press the belly inward.

And remember, wrapping is like a cast, it won’t help tone your muscles and bring your body into shape! It just assists your weakened muscles!

If you have any questions about belly wrapping, you can watch detailed instructions in video tutorials or consult with our specialists, who will surely help you master this comfortable and beneficial procedure.