Why you should be wearing a belly belt during pregnancy

A belly belt is used during pregnancy to provide additional support for the lower back and abdomen. If you are someone whose pregnancy does not put a stop to how much you move about or stay active, then a belly band is a must for you.

Here are a few advantages of wearing a belly belt while you are pregnant:

Reduces back and joint pain

When you are heavily pregnant (late second trimester and third trimester), you tend to “waddle” rather than walk. Because of the extra weight in the front, your posture is off balance and this puts a lot of strain on your lower back, ligaments, muscles and joints.

Sometimes women also experience a dull pain in the abdomen, hip or the groin area especially during the second trimester. This is often referred to as a round ligament pain and is also a result of extra weight. Although it is temporary it can be unbearable. Belly belt help relieve the pressure on your back and thereby effectively reduce pain.

2. Relieve SIJ and Hip pain

SIJ, Sacroiliac joint is located in the pelvic region. This pair of joints is responsible for stability during various physical activities you perform during pregnancy. They are also known for shock absorption in the lower body regions. Because of the hormones that are released during pregnancy which are responsible for loosening muscles and joints in the pelvic region, SIJ become mobile and cause pain.

Wearing a belly belt will help stabilize SI joints and reduce this pain.

3. That much needed support

Belly bands are like sports bra for your baby bump. The gentle compression from the belly band will help in supporting the uterus and reduce discomfort as you go about your day. But make sure that the band is not too tight because not too much compression causes impair circulation, affect your blood pressure and even cause heartburn and indigestion.

4. The right posture

Pregnant women tend to overextend their lower backs because of loosened muscles and joints that support the spine. On top of this, the extra weight will change your centre of balance making it difficult for you to stand or walk straight. This swaying back can be avoided by wearing a belly belt that will encourage correct posture by providing adequate support to your back and belly.

5. A must for exercising

Exercising while pregnant is beneficial for both your baby and you. The health benefits are countless so light to moderate exercise routines are recommended even by doctors. You can make exercising a little more easy by wearing a belly belt that will support your muscles and prevent you from stretching or bending too far.

What’s great about belly belts is that they can be worn even after giving birth to your child to reduce back pain as part of your healing process.