Extra Torso Support

Belly Binding Benefits

Abdominal binding is a traditional postpartum practice that has been utilized in many cultures across the world. An abdominal binder can help you feel more stabilized and supported in the torso thus helping to improve lower back pain, engage your core muscles, and stabilize loosened ligaments.

Belly Binding Rooted in Tradition

Belly binding is considered a supportive measure to help the uterus involute, stabilize the abdominal wall, and promote musculoskeletal recovery, often in conjunction with massage and herbal therapies in many Asian cultures. From the perspective of many Asian traditions, belly wrapping provides less opportunity for cold or wind to enter the body during this vulnerable time. In Traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncture theory, there is a meridian that runs from the perineum up to the midline of the body to the lower lip called ren mai, translated as conception vessel or CV. The acupuncture point CV1 can be affected by vaginal tearing. The acupuncture point CV 4 is compromised by cesarean section. Wrapping the belly can be seen to protect and stabilize this channel, which is the meridian governing reproductive health, where yin-like qualities of calmness, and nourishment are essential for growth and healing. This practice is also rooted in the Ayurvedic principle of balancing the doshas, particularly vata, which can be associated with instability and weakness. Binding is thought to provide warmth and containment, countering vata's qualities.

Belly Paste Practice and Wrap

Below is a postpartum practice primarily guided by tradition rather than by formal medical guidelines to encourage support, warmth, and vitality.

Belly Paste and Wrap (adopted by Ayurvedic practitioner and postpartum doula Dr. Pilar Chandler) This belly binding activity requires 1 additional person from your postpartum supportive team that can include your doula/partner/family member/friend.

• Mix bentonite clay with 1 tbsp of sesame oil or castor oil (avoid water as it will dry out and flake)

• Lie down in a comfortable position

• Spread belly paste in clockwise direction in lower abdomen below the belly button

• Place saran wrap over belly

• Apply heat (such as a fabric covered hot water bottle) over the lower abdomen

• Relax and enjoy the soothing paste and warmth for as long as you would like

• Once you feel satisfied, remove the hot water bottle, saran wrap, and wash off paste with a washcloth

• While standing and with the help of that second person, take an abdominal binder and wrap it around your lower back and the lower abdomen to a tightness and level you feel the most supported and comfortable with

Of note, if you do have a C-section wound incision, keep the belly paste a few inches away from the incision to avoid disrupting the healing at the incision site.

Modern Evidence for Belly Binding

Modern evidence shows wrapping your belly can be especially supportive after a C-section. It can help provide support to the abdominal layers and connective tissue that has been disrupted from surgery. Abdominal binding has been shown to reduce postoperative pain in the first 2 days, improve early mobility and breastfeeding, and can possibly help minimize blood loss. Be sure to ask for an abdominal binder after you give birth if you haven't been offered one.

Disclaimer: The information on Mone does not replace professional medical assessment, diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Please seek medical advice from your physician or other qualified health care providers.