Postpartum belts for gentle or firm support after the birth
In the first weeks after having a baby, your tummy can feel loose and unsupported when you stand up, walk about or lift. A postpartum belt wraps round your middle and holds it, so getting about feels more supported. It won't close a gap in your tummy muscles on its own; that takes gradual core exercises, ideally with a pelvic health physiotherapist.
The Comfort+ is the lighter belt, fastening with velcro and two straps that cross over the front, with a soft bamboo lining. The Support+ is our firmest: a wide main belt in breathable AirMesh™, with crossover straps you can tighten through the day, for when you're on your feet a lot or a softer belt didn't feel like enough.
Both come with our Postpartum Book of gentle core and pelvic floor exercises. The Recovery Belt is an earlier version of the Comfort+ in S, M and L; it's discontinued, so it can't be returned.
Questions, answered.
Which belt do I need, Comfort+ or Support+?
Comfort+ gives gentle, adjustable support with a soft bamboo lining, for moving about more comfortably in the early weeks. Support+ is more structured, with stronger compression and crossover straps over the main belt, which suits you if you're on your feet a lot, lifting and carrying, or a softer belt didn't feel like enough.
When can I start wearing one?
After a straightforward vaginal birth, whenever you feel ready, which for most people is within the first few days. After a C-section, let the wound heal and check with your midwife or GP first, ideally waiting until your six week check; that check matters more with the firmer Support+. Stop and ask for advice if a belt pulls at your incision, hurts or makes the area feel numb.
What size should I order?
Order for your body now rather than before pregnancy. Comfort+ fits dress sizes 8 to 16 in One Size and 18 to 24 in XL; Support+ goes by your hip measurement, 70 to 106cm (roughly a UK 8 to 18) in One Size and 106 to 130cm in XL. If you're between the two, take the XL.
Will a belt fix tummy muscle separation?
No. It can make moving about more comfortable while your muscles recover, but it won't close the gap on its own. The NHS says pelvic floor and deep stomach exercises help, and to see your GP if the gap is still obvious eight weeks after the birth.
How long should I wear it each day?
As long as it feels comfortable, taking it off when you're resting. As you get stronger, wear it less and less, so you don't come to rely on it.
