Belly Binding
What is Belly Binding?
Belly Binding is a practice that has been around for centuries. It is used in different cultures and in various parts of the world- such as Thailand, Indonesia, Japan (sarashi) and Malaysia
(Bengkung), Latin America (Faja) and more.
Belly binding, using breathable materials, with not too much stretch such as cotton or woven hemp is used to gently but firmly wrap around and hold the belly. The support of the
muscles and organs after childbearing and giving birth feels and acts as a support to help the body heal well and heal faster.
There are many lengths and widths available that can be utilised to facilitate different types of wraps and ties for each person, depending on the function that it serves . For example, a
Bengkung stype wrap with ties at the front may irritate a caesarean wound and therefore a different style may be more appropriate to facilitate healing in the early postpartum days.
Whilst baby grows in the womb, our organs and muscles move and stretch to make room for the growing fetus. In the postpartum period, the body works hard to return to its
original form. Hormones such as relaxin are still circulating which can make our ligaments mobile but sore. Belly binding not only provides support for those moving organs and
muscles, but to our pelvic floor and lower back, compressing these areas as the body heals. Some find that they have Diastasis recti (DRAM), which constitutes the separation of
abdominal muscles, leaving a ‘dip’ in the abdomen where the muscles have not properly come back together. Belly binding can help to draw the muscles together.
Can I use a belly bind when I am pregnant?
Belly binding also serves to alleviate back pain and a feeling of heaviness in the antenatal period by lifting the belly and supporting the lower back.
How long or often should I use a belly bind for? Whenever you feel the need! It is recommended to wear a wrap for as much as possible in the postpartum period. Some practices recommend that it stay on at least 12 hours a day and anywhere between 2 weeks to 3 months whilst the body recovers- many women may choose to return to using a wrap even once their menstrual cycle returns to apply gentle pressure and alleviate stomach bloating and pain. We hope that this has provided some information and has answered any questions that you may have about belly binding.
Please reach out to us if you have any questions or would like to have your belly wrapped at home.
