Adam holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Linguistics, and creative writing has always been his greatest passion. For more than 25 years he's been working for several well-known automobile and travel magazines as an editor and expert consultant, but when Adam started his writing path here, at WisePick, it turned out that he's capable of writing practically anything about everything.
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Last updated: June 04, 2021
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Feeling self-conscious about your look is natural after giving birth. Many women want to find a solution for disguising their stomach in the weeks postpartum, either because they don’t want to deal with questions from strangers about whether they have a new baby or simply because they don’t want to look in the mirror and see a body they don’t recognize. Postpartum belly binders are the best solution there is for giving women a shapely look by compressing their abdomen, backside, and hips to help boost their self-esteem while helping during the recovery process. The best postpartum girdle is the one that supports your back while helping to recover the muscles.
When choosing a postpartum girdle, there are multiple things to take into account, including the time, material composition, and the sizes they are available in. Moreover, you should consider whether the model you want to buy is suitable for women who have given birth naturally or by cesarean section.
We spent weeks doing research on the best postpartum girdles available on the market, so you can easily find one that is suitable for your personal needs. Below you will find seven of the best models out there together with in-depth reviews and comparison table that will make your choice an easier one. Finally, at the end you’ll find a buying guide outlining all the features and characteristics you should look for when shopping for the best belly binder. Now let’s have a look at the seven postpartum girdles that made it into our top.
Our best all-around postpartum girdle is the Bellefit Postpartum Corset, which made it to the top because it comes with multiple benefits while being recommended by many doctors and midwives. This is a corset style girdle that comes with convenience flaps with hoops in the groin area and feels nice and soft on the skin. One of the best things that reviewers mentioned about this girdle is the fact that you can wear it under clothing without it being visible. While some new mothers mentioned that the fit runs a little tight, most reviewers were extremely pleased with the level of compression and support this girdle provides.
The Bellefit Postpartum Corset is available in multiple styles that include dual closure, corset, girdle zipper, and pull up. All of these models work well for posture improvement and back pain relief, and are suitable for C-section recovery. Many women who tested this girdle mentioned that they noticed a significant reduction of back pain as well as a good level of support for the abdominal and lumbar regions. These girdles are made from high-quality materials and users raved about how they can withstand stretching and pulling. The reinforced abdominal panel is made from medical-grade corset material that includes nylon and elastane. This girdle is suitable to wear anywhere from one week to 6 months postpartum, so it offers a good degree of versatility for most new mothers.
A zipper-less girdle with a soft elastic waistband, the Marena Recovery Knee-Length Girdle with High-Back is one of the few models out there that provides coverage up to the knees. An excellent choice for women want a good level of compression for their hips and thighs as well as for their abdomen, this girdle comes complete with a padded hook and eye zipper side closure. Most of the users who tested it raved about how smooth and soft the material feels and how invisible it is under various types of clothing.
This high compression girdle offers excellent back support and allows you to complete a full range of movement during the day while also being comfortable to sleep in. Many new mothers appreciated the open crotch that provides convenience throughout the day. The adjustable shoulder straps make the garment comfortable even on those days when you need to deal with fluctuating swelling levels. The compression of the girdle is firm, yet gentle at the same time, so it promotes healing without causing discomfort post C-section surgery.
Users raved about how the unique construction and patented the fabric of these garment can reduce fluid buildup and help reduce swelling during the healing process. Because it features medical-grade compression for reducing edema, this girdle is also suitable for wearing after other types of medical procedures such as liposuction, for example.
Not many postpartum girdles offer recovery support for diastasis recti abdominis, but the Movwin Postpartum Belly Wrap is one of the few models that does it brilliantly. Looking more like a belly wrap than a corset, this girdle also helps with lower back pain and posture and is designed with two back panels for extra support. The layered construction distributes tension evenly to reduce tension after surgery, and the breathable mesh material helps with itchy skin as the incision heals.
This postpartum girdle is available in five sizes and comes complete with a breathable, hypoallergenic flap that means you don’t have to take the garment off for your bathroom breaks. Diastasis recti abdominis refers to the separation of the abdominal muscles and may lead to difficulty in lifting objects and completing various routine daily activities. This belly wrap offers firm support, so your muscles can heal and return back to the way they were before your pregnancy.
The Movwin Postpartum Belly Wrap works for both natural and C-section births and many users mentioned that it remains in shape even with extended use, so you can wear it comfortably for up to six months after the birth.
One of the best choices on the market for post C-section healing, the DIANE & GEORDI 2396 Postpartum Girdle provides the right amount of compression in any position while being completely hypoallergenic and breathable. Users appreciated the very functional design that includes a boy short, which allows you to wear short pieces of clothing. The zipper closure system is reinforced with inner hooks and eyes, which makes this girdle an excellent choice for comfortable wear throughout the day.
Users liked how this post-pregnancy girdle uplifts the rear area to control the shape of the hips and improve your posture at the same time. The girdle is made from cotton and Powernet, which are two fabrics that wash well and minimize the risk of irritation. This strapless bodysuit remains comfortable to wear throughout the day and is designed to be invisible, which means that you can wear it under most types of clothing, ranging from jeans to evening dresses. The reinforced seams make this girdle durable, so you can use it for months until you reach your desired shape.
Many users mentioned that this full-body girdle works well for women of all sizes and that it is easy to find you are correct size, something that doesn’t always happen with these types of garments. The DIANE & GEORDI 2396 Postpartum Girdle is available in both black and nude so you can have one for any occasion.
An essential corset for any maternity wardrobe, the Belly Bandit Mother Tucker sits discreetly under your clothes and is made from lightweight and soft fabric that is also breathable for enhanced comfort during the day. The six-hook design of this girdle means that it is easy to adjust and provide the exact level of compression you need. Many users mentioned that the design of the corset is made in a way that means that it remains in place throughout the day without digging into your skin.
The double compression offered by two layers of SecureStretch™ material slims your waist and abdomen, which means that you can use the girdle not just for postpartum compression but beyond those months for shape wear. The girdle is available in both nude and black options to suit just about everything in your wardrobe. Many users mentioned that besides providing excellent support for the belly after birth, this girdle also offers a good level of back support while breastfeeding.
Most new mothers who tried this corset found it to be true to size and were happy with the fit and level of comfort this girdle offers. They also mention that it is very easy to position the six rows hooks in a comfortable way and adjust them fit the new shape as the weeks pass by.
One of the best postpartum girdles that comes in plus sizes up to 5XL, the Wink C Section Recovery Post Pregnancy Belly Wrap sports three layers of hook closures for enhanced adjustability. This means that you can wear the girdle comfortably for months after birth. The eye opening at crotch comes in very handy for bathroom brakes, as mentioned by many users.
The Wink C Section Recovery Post Pregnancy Belly Wrap comes in multiple sizes, and most of the women who reviewed it mentioned hat it runs up to two sizes smaller than other brands, so it’s important to take accurate measurements before purchasing it. Even though it doesn’t offer too much support for the back, this postpartum girdle provides good support and shaping for the abdomen.
Users raved about how it doesn’t roll at the waist like other models and how it’s practically invisible under clothes. Besides working as a postpartum girdle, this garment doubles as a waist trainer for when you resume your gym trips after the birth. Some users also mentioned that this girdle helps with muscle retraction with constant wear.
Featuring an interior silicone panel that minimizes irritation and scarring, the UpSpring Baby C-Panty is one of the best choices on the market specifically designed for recovering after a C-section. The medical-grade compression of this postpartum girdle speeds C-section recovery while providing you with a significant reduction in the level of discomfort after surgery.
One of the best things about the UpSpring Baby C-Panty is the fact that it can be worn immediately after a C-section, in lieu of underwear. Users mentioned that it can be worn with great results for up to 12 months after a C-section. Because it has a design with no hooks and no Velcro, this girdle is comfortable and works well under most types of clothing.
The non-binding fluted waist of the UpSpring Baby C-Panty supports the weakened muscles and reduces swelling, while the silicone panel reduces redness, itching, and scarring. Overall, users raved about how comfortable the girdle is as you recover, when you need to be on your feet to chase after older children or when going back to work. Even though it is not specified by the manufacturer, some new mothers mentioned that the girdle also does a good job for supporting the lower back.
Why are we impressed?
Interior silicone panel
No hooks or Velcro
Speeds C-section recovery
What negatives must you be aware of?
Not suitable for recovery from natural births
Things to Consider
ТGetting back into shape after giving birth is the dream of most women, and postpartum girdles are one of the best ways to help with that. Even though the topic of postpartum corsets is sometimes controversial among new mothers, the truth is these garments provide a good level of support for the abdomen and they will help you bounce back into shape as quickly as possible after giving birth to your bundle of joy. Below you will find a buying guide that summarizes the most important features to consider before shopping for a postpartum girdle.
Benefits of getting a top-quality postpartum girdle
There are multiple benefits that come with using a postpartum girdle, and the most important of them is that it helps with post-delivery recovery. Because your midsection is deflated after you give birth, it takes a while for the abdominal muscles to return to their normal size and regain their strength. Moreover, if you have a C-section delivery, the incision may require additional support to help with the recovery and this is where a postpartum girdle can be of enormous help.
Another reason to opt for a postpartum girdle is that it helps with lower back pain and posture. Pregnancy can take a toll on your posture and cause you to have lower back pain because of the unnatural size of the abdomen. A postpartum girdle will have lots of support in the lower back while supporting your abdominal muscles at the same time.
Finally, this type of garment can help with confidence and self-esteem after giving birth, because it allows you to wear your regular pre-pregnancy clothes very quickly. Many women feel that they are going to look pregnant forever, especially in the last weeks of pregnancy, so a postpartum girdle can make them feel more comfortable and less self-conscious.
Features to consider when choosing a post-pregnancy girdle
From the type of girdle to the material composition and how easy it is to choose a size, there are multiple factors to consider when shopping for a post-pregnancy girdle. Below is a quick guide to some of the most important.
Type of girdle
There are multiple types of girdles available, which include the most common corset or bodysuit, but you can also opt for models that are knee length or thigh length so that you can wear them with just about everything in your wardrobe. You should also consider whether the type of girdle you choose is compatible with a C-section if that is the case.
Function: shaping or recovery
While all postpartum girdles provide shaping support, not all of them actually help with post-surgery recovery. If you want a model that can help your abdominal muscles get back into shape and provide you with support for your back, opt for a model that is specifically designed to provide help the recovery of your body instead of just shaping it.
Your measurements: choosing a size
Choosing a size for a postpartum girdle can be a tricky business, especially if you want to buy before giving birth. Make sure you take your measurements accurately and follow the instructions of the manufacturer where available. Most women prefer to purchase their postpartum girdle after the 36th week of pregnancy, because that is when you can get an accurate idea of the size you will need.
Make sure the item you buy is in the correct size, because a girdle that is too small can be uncomfortable and one that is too large is bound to be ineffective.
Moreover, wearing a post-pregnancy corset that is not a good fit for you may cause discomfort and back pain.
Material composition
The texture of a postpartum girdle is very important for comfort, so look for a garment made from high quality materials. Stretchable fabrics that include elastane are always a good choice, but you should also make sure the item you buy provides you with a snug fit for quick recovery. Models such as Bellefit Postpartum Corset, our best all-around choice, are made from medical grade materials for the best comfort you can get in a recovery corset.
Zip vs. hook clasps
The main choices you have when it comes to putting on and taking off the corset are zips vs. hook clasps. Many women prefer the second choice because hook clasps allow for extra versatility and better adjustment, taking into account the fact that you may need to adjust the corset from one week to another.
Natural birth or C-section
Most postpartum corsets are suitable for recovery after both natural and C-section births, but you should keep in mind that some of them may only work for one type of birth. Look at the instructions provided by the manufacturer to make sure that the model you buy is a suitable choice for the type of birth you will need to recover from.
Under-clothing visibility
If you’re only planning on wearing the corset at home, you may not worry about under-clothing visibility.
However, if you want to wear it out, make sure that the design is smooth and the girdle is not bulky and uncomfortable under your clothes.
Some models are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a corset that gives you a great shape under a dress, for example.
Look at the instructions provided by the manufacturer to determine whether you can wear the girdle immediately after birth. Some models are suitable for this, whereas others can only be worn after a week or even month after birth.
Most models are suitable to wear every day and even at night while you sleep. Again, check the instructions to confirm this, but as a rule of thumb, you can wear a postpartum girdle every day for up to 6 months after giving birth
Not all models help with hip compression. If you’re interested in this feature, you should look for a postpartum girdle that is knee length, such as the Marena Recovery Knee-Length Girdle we reviewed above.
Our Verdict
No matter what kind of birth you’re looking to recover from, there’s a postpartum girdle out there for every new mother. Our best all-around choice, the Bellefit Postpartum Corset meets the needs of just about everyone thanks to its versatile design and stretchable materials. If you want something that can also help with hip compression, the Marena Recovery Knee-Length Girdle would be a good option. Finally, if you’re interested in a girdle that can help with recovery from Diastasis Recti Abdominis, the Movwin Postpartum Belly Wrap would fit the bill. Whatever your choice may be, make sure you do your research and buy a postpartum girdle in the correct size for a comfortable and speedy recovery.
