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Published in Pregnancy on Dec 22nd 2022

5 Reasons Why You Should Wear a Maternity Belt

A maternity belt, or a belly support band, is a great help when dealing with the not-so-comfortable parts of pregnancy. As your baby grows, your belly will grow as well, leaving your body to adjust. Because of this, you may feel discomfort in your back, hips, or muscles as you go about your normal activities. Maternity belts help to alleviate this discomfort by adding abdominal support and helping those who are pregnant adjust to their changing body size.

Maternity belts are a wonderful aid, and many insurance companies cover the cost. There are many benefits to maternity belts, and depending on where you are in your pregnancy, they can be a great investment.

1. Decreases pain

Pregnancy is a beautiful time, but it does come with some growing pains. During the third trimester, the body releases a chemical called relaxin to help loosen muscles, joints, and other connective tissue to prepare your body for labor and make things easier. Because tissues are looser, the sacroiliac joint in the pelvis also loosens, which can be uncomfortable. A maternity belt helps provide support to those loosened muscles.

2. Helps while working out

Gentle compression during activities is nothing new. Some wear sports bras and waist trainers to work out in because it lessens the impact of the movement--the same principle applies to the maternity belt. The gentle compression provided allows for full support for those who work out, or for those who are on their feet all day and need the extra help.

3. Supports posture

Maternity belts provide external support for your posture during pregnancy. By supporting the lower back and torso, it lifts the abdomen and counteracts gravity, helping you stay upright. This also prevents overextension of the lower back and the “swayback” posture most commonly associated with pregnancy.

4. Lowers risk of falls

Your body naturally protects your unborn child during pregnancy, as the walls of the uterus are very thick. That said, it’s always a good idea to give yourself more protection. If the pelvic area is secure and your back is supported, your balance will be better, especially as you adjust to your baby growing. This will help reduce the risk of falls.

5. Can be worn after pregnancy

Decreased abdominal strength after pregnancy is common. Muscles become strained and stretched during pregnancy and labor, and some may even experience diastasis recti, or a separation of the abdominal muscles. A maternity belt is a great temporary solution to help your muscles and ligaments rest and heal from the trauma.

Before purchasing a maternity belt, talk to your doctor. If they approve of your decision, talk to others who have used them and try them on in a store. You’ll know exactly what type of maternity band is ideal for you, and you’ll have control over the size, style, and budget that works best.