Bandage after caesarean section
Surgery is performed on a pregnant woman to help the baby be born. However, recovery from an operation such as a caesarean section takes quite a long period, since a deep incision is made. It takes at least a month for the sutures to heal, and for some girls this process takes much longer; moreover, after the operation, the uterus does not contract as quickly as after a natural birth. Under such circumstances, doctors recommend that girls purchase a bandage to speed up recovery after surgery.
Purpose and properties of the product
A medical product intended to be worn after a cesarean section is clothing characterized by elastic properties. This accessory supports the muscles of the uterus and abdomen and shortens the recovery period after surgery. In addition, they wear a bandage in order to quickly bring their figure back to normal.
Properties of the postpartum bandage:
- reduces pain in the back and lower back;
- promotes rapid restoration of muscle tone;
- eliminates stress on the lower back;
- accelerates the healing of sutures and scarring after surgical manipulation.
Indications and contraindications
A medical product such as a bandage is recommended for use by women who have had a caesarean section. In each individual case, the doctor will recommend different models, but experts agree that a bandage after surgery significantly reduces recovery time.
However, there are cases when a medical device cannot be used after a caesarean section. Contraindications include:
- individual allergic reaction to the material used to make the accessory;
- history of skin diseases;
- inflammation in the area of postoperative sutures;
- disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular system, which lead to swelling;
- chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys.
Women who wore a bandage after surgery noted several advantages of this medical product.
The advantages include:
- effective support for the pelvic organs, as well as the abdominal muscles, which prevents their stretching;
- spine support, which allows for faster recovery after cesarean section;
- reduction of pain that usually appears in the postoperative period;
- improvement of uterine contraction after surgery;
- preventing seams from coming apart during physical activity.
Does it help remove belly fat?
Since after surgery a woman cannot engage in physical exercises that help tighten her abdominal muscles, it is quite difficult to restore her figure. If you use a bandage, this process is significantly accelerated due to the effect of the medical product.
Useful video: wearing a postpartum bandage
Every pregnancy, like every birth, is individual, because we are all different.
Some women give birth easily and quickly return to their previous shape, restoring their health and figure.
However, if there are any complications, and the life of the child or mother is in danger, so that natural childbirth becomes impossible, then a caesarean section must be resorted to.
The very concept of “operation” terrifies many, because even if everything goes perfectly, there is still a postoperative period, which is very difficult.
As a rule, in such cases, doctors advise wearing a bandage, because this particular device was invented in order to maximally alleviate the condition after surgery and help during the rehabilitation period.
However, everything is not so simple: you need to be able to choose the right bandage, and besides, there are even some contraindications to wearing it, so you should carefully understand everything before purchasing.
Types of bandages
Today there are several types of medical products, so before purchasing a bandage you should consult a doctor.
Postpartum
The postoperative bandage is intended for recovery after caesarean section. It is securely fixed on the woman’s body, thanks to its wearing, the pressure of the internal organs is evenly distributed on the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity. When wearing a postpartum bandage, scar formation is stabilized. In addition, thanks to the medical product, the edges of the scar do not diverge from the slightest physical activity.
Typically, the height of all postoperative bandages is around 24 cm. They are made of hypoallergenic materials and do not lead to sweating, as they allow air to pass through. Thanks to its elasticity, the bandage fits perfectly and is invisible under clothing. The front wall of the medical device is made of thin foam rubber; on the side adjacent to the abdomen there is cotton fabric. The degree of compression of the bandage is adjusted using a special fastener.
Belt
This medical product is made in the form of an elastic belt. The width of the postoperative bandage varies from 27 to 30 centimeters. In front, in the abdominal area, there is a soft but quite dense insert. Thanks to special fasteners, the size and degree of compression can be adjusted. The price of such products is low, so they are considered the most budget option.
By wearing a belt-shaped model, it is possible to prevent the development of a hernia and reduce the risk of suture dehiscence after a cesarean section. But such a medical product also has one significant drawback - when worn under clothing, it often rides up and has to be adjusted frequently.
Corset
It is recommended to start wearing such a product only when the stitches after a cesarean section begin to heal. Such a bandage supports not only the stomach, but also the back, relieving the load from the lower back. Thanks to the presence of inserts on the back, a snug fit to the body is ensured. The medical product is worn both under underwear and on the naked body, however, in the latter case, you will have to wash the corset often, which will affect its quality and characteristics.
Underpants
One of the most comfortable models is made in the form of panties and is more often purchased by women than a belt or corset after a caesarean section. A characteristic feature of this medical product is its high waist and the presence of several levels of fasteners. Panties designed to support the abdomen during the postoperative period are made from dense natural fabric.
Girls say the main advantage of this form of medical product is convenience. The panties do not ride up when moving, do not twist, and at the same time tightly hold the stomach. In addition, such a bandage is practically invisible under clothing. They produce panties intended to be worn after a caesarean section, both domestic and foreign brands.
Girls consider the only disadvantage of the bandage to be the need to wash the product daily, so it is recommended to purchase several panties so that you can wear some while the others dry.
Maternity bandage
A model designed to be worn while pregnant can also be used after surgery. However, you must choose options with an adjustable clasp. If possible, it is better to pay attention to special postoperative models, since during pregnancy the bandage will stretch and will not fit well.
Bandage skirt
The medical product is a wide belt that simultaneously clasps both the waist and hips. Since the bandage fits tightly to the body and tightens the abdominal muscles, the painful sensations that bother you after surgery are reduced. Another advantage of the product is its low price; a bandage skirt is much cheaper than panties and Bermuda shorts.
However, this model also has a significant drawback: the bandage can only be worn under a dress or skirt. When wearing trousers or shorts, the bandage begins to slip and makes walking difficult.
Universal
This medical product is convenient because it is used both during pregnancy and after the baby is born. During pregnancy, it is worn with the narrow side facing the stomach, after a cesarean section - on the contrary, with the wide part facing the stomach.
There will be no problems purchasing such a product - a wide range, affordable price, availability in any pharmacy and special store for expectant mothers. However, with many advantages, this model also has its disadvantages. When worn, there is a weak fixation of the abdominal and abdominal muscles, in addition, the bandage constantly moves out. If you wear such a product under light clothing, it will be noticeable regardless of color.
Bermuda
This medical product is not very different from panties, however, unlike them, it reaches the girl’s hips. Models in the form of Bermuda shorts are especially comfortable to wear, as they are not only invisible and do not ride up under clothing, but also tightly hug the muscles of the abdomen, waist, hips and buttocks. Due to this fit to the body, the possibility of divergence of postoperative sutures is eliminated.
Two disadvantages of such a medical product, which the girls noted, are that when choosing a size, it is necessary to take into account both the volume of the hips and the rather high cost of models, even from domestic manufacturers.
Contraindications
During the examination after childbirth, contraindications may be revealed, and then the woman will not be allowed to wear a postoperative bandage after a cesarean section, despite her desire to quickly restore her figure and return to a regular lifestyle. This is due to the fact that the belt has a fairly strong compressive effect on the organs, which can negatively affect their condition if problems are discovered with their functioning. Contraindications include:
- inflammation of the suture;
- pain in the lower abdomen of any nature;
- flatulence, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, etc.;
- skin diseases in the abdominal area (eczema, neurodermatitis, dermatitis);
- edema due to renal (pyelonephritis, cystitis) or cardiovascular pathologies;
- allergy to the material from which the bandage is made;
- the seam has a non-standard size or shape (for example, longitudinal).
If you have these health problems, you should not wear a postpartum bandage after a caesarean section. However, in some cases these points are not categorical. In particular, not all doctors consider a longitudinal suture after surgery to be a contraindication for using a belt. It all depends on the health and well-being of the young mother after the operation.
Keep in mind . If a woman is determined to wear a bandage after a cesarean section, but the stitches have festered and the doctor forbids her to do so, the problem is often solved with the help of antibiotics. Inflammation is relieved, but it is worth considering that such treatment will definitely affect the quality of breast milk.
In 70% of cases, this operation is planned due to some abnormalities identified during the period of pregnancy. Accordingly, a woman thinks in advance about which bandage is better after a cesarean section, how to choose it correctly from the variety that modern manufacturers offer. There is a choice, the assortment is pleasing, so every young mother can choose a belt to suit her taste preferences and anatomical features.
It has excellent elasticity and sufficient width, reaching to the very hips. Covers the entire belly. Reduces the risk of a hernia after cesarean section. Actively promotes the formation of a neat scar.
Ideal for walks, receiving guests, long trips. Invisible under clothes, as it is made of elastic fabric, tightly fitting the body.
It has an elongated hip line, in some models it can reach the knees. Perfectly hides stretch marks, prevents cellulite, helps get rid of excess weight and fat deposits on the sides and abdomen.
Worn above the waist, providing good muscle contraction and promoting rapid recovery.
These are the main types of bandages after cesarean section, from which you can always choose something suitable. The most common and recommended is still the belt, since other models are less functional.
Which bandage is better to choose after a caesarean section?
If a doctor has recommended that a girl wear a post-operative bandage, she must purchase it responsibly, since a low-quality product will add problems instead of bringing benefits.
Purchases are made exclusively in specialized orthopedic salons or pharmacies. At the buyer's request, sellers must provide all necessary product certificates, instructions for use and registration certificate. If the store does not have such documents, it is recommended to refuse to purchase goods of questionable quality. The fact is that such medical products have not been tested and are only superficially similar to models from well-known brands. You should also be wary of the low cost of the product; such a bandage can harm a woman’s body, which is fragile after surgery.
The main parameters by which a suitable medical product is selected.
Compound
The choice of a specific model depends on what time of year the girl is going to use the bandage. For the winter period, a product made of thicker fabric is suitable, and for the hot summer months, you need an accessory that allows air to pass through well so that the seams underneath do not fray.
The naturalness of the material is also important. To ensure that the product is elastic and does not lose its shape, manufacturers add artificial fibers to it, but their percentage should not exceed 20. Otherwise, you may encounter an allergic reaction.
Size
The size chart for bandages intended to be worn after surgery usually starts with S and ends with XXL. However, these indicators may differ slightly for each manufacturer, so it is important to take body measurements and compare them with the size of a specific product.
If possible, it is recommended to try on the selected model before purchasing. It should not compress the body too much, but at the same time fit snugly in the back and abdomen, and not fall off while walking. When purchasing a medical product in an online store, it is recommended to ask a consultant for advice so as not to make a mistake with the size.
Additional accessories
A high-quality fastener that does not rub the skin and secures the bandage tightly is also important when choosing a medical product. It is better to refuse to purchase models with metal fasteners, and give preference to multi-level Velcro. Also, do not pay attention to products with buttons, snaps and hooks, as they cause additional discomfort when worn, especially if there are seams.
Selection criteria
Only the correct bandage can bring maximum benefit. If there are several criteria for its selection.
- Size. The right bandage should not be small or large. Therefore, taking it from your friend who gave birth earlier is fundamentally wrong. Here you need to focus on your weight. If a woman has gained 10-15 kg during childbirth, then it is worth taking a bandage 1-2 sizes larger than the one she had before pregnancy. After all, it’s definitely not possible to return to your previous form immediately. The best thing to do is talk to a consultant to determine the exact size. The belt should not slide down or tighten the stomach too much. It should be as comfortable as possible!
- Seams and material. There are several types of fabrics that are best for wearing a bandage after a caesarean section: cotton, lycra, polyester, microfiber. They are dense, elastic, and at the same time perfectly breathable. The seams should be as smooth as possible so as not to irritate the skin.
- Accessories. The more Velcro fasteners a model has, the easier it is to adjust the size. Such fasteners will tightly secure the bandage and ensure its full functionality. Buttons or lacing are uncomfortable and can damage the seam.
Rating of the best manufacturing brands: review and cost
Based on assurances from manufacturers and reviews from consumers, a rating of the best medical products designed to speed up a girl’s recovery after a caesarean section has been compiled.
"FEST"
Models of this brand are produced in the form of a wide belt that fits tightly to the stomach and back. The degree of compression is adjusted using a special Velcro fastener. Country of origin: Russia.
Thanks to wearing this bandage, it is possible to relieve the load from the lower back, accelerate the contraction of the uterine muscles and shorten the recovery period after surgery. The fabric has an almost 100% natural composition and has breathable properties, thanks to which the medical product can be worn in the summer heat. Judging by customer reviews, the material did not cause irritation or rashes on the skin. It is allowed to wear a bandage from the first days after the baby is born until the abdomen is completely restored to shape.
Available in sizes for both petite girls and plus size ladies. The price depends on the specific model and is around 1000 rubles.
"Crate"
The postoperative bandage is made in the form of high-waisted panties, the material is cotton. There is an additional panel on the front, which is fixed with a tape; it also allows you to adjust the degree of compression. The gusset can be unfastened, which is very convenient when going to the toilet, since there is no need to completely lower the panties. The cost of the product is around 2800 rubles.
The manufacturer claims that wearing this medical product allows you to relieve stress from the back, prevent the appearance of a hernia and speed up the healing of postoperative scars, as well as reduce pain at the incision site.
In order for the product to last a long time, it is necessary to properly care for it. Washing is allowed only by hand, and the temperature should not exceed 40 degrees. Use detergents for delicate items. After washing, the panties are lightly blotted with a terry towel and laid out on a flat surface, away from sunlight and heating devices. Ironing the bandage is prohibited, as is the use of bleach and dry cleaning.
"Trivers"
The medical product is made in the form of a wide belt and is optimally suited for stitches after cesarean section; its height is 23 centimeters. The multi-layer elastic fabric reliably fixes the abdominal and back areas, fitting tightly to the body. For this purpose, the bandage has a two-leaf fastener. The front part of the product, which is adjacent to the postoperative suture, is denser and does not stretch, which contributes to the correct formation of the scar.
After wearing a bandage-belt, not only does the recovery period pass faster, but the muscles also become stronger. The cost of a medical product is around 1,400 rubles.
Orlett
Another model, made in the form of a belt, which delicately fixes and supports the anterior abdominal wall. This occurs due to the non-stretchable pad and the tension of the elastic material that surrounds the torso. Wearing this medical product contributes to the formation of a correct postoperative scar.
Available in white only, large women's sizes feature a double clasp for a snug fit. The cost of such a bandage is around 2,700 rubles.
Bliss
The medical product is available in white and black colors and is designed specifically for recovery after cesarean section and abdominal support after childbirth. The material is 80% elastane and 20% cotton. The bandage has a three-layer structure, which perfectly allows air to pass through and allows the skin to breathe.
Thanks to the adjustable clasp, you can loosen or increase the compression. On the inside, where the product is adjacent to the body, there is a special cotton lining that prevents irritation. The bandage fits the figure well, as it has a slight extension downwards.
The product may only be washed by hand and should not be twisted under any circumstances. The average cost in orthopedic stores is 1,400 rubles.
Belly Bandit
The postpartum bandage is designed to restore the woman's figure, reduce the appearance of stretch marks and provide comfort after a cesarean section. The product has been tested and approved by doctors. Thanks to wearing this bandage, the load on the abdominal wall is evenly distributed and the internal organs are supported. During the use of the product, the immobility of the surgical suture and its rapid healing are ensured. In addition, wearing a bandage prevents the occurrence of postoperative hernias.
The special design of this bandage has two different compression zones. On the one hand, there is a reduction in pain, and on the other hand, the waist and hip lines are corrected, and the stomach is tightened.
The product is manufactured using super soft material; due to the smoothness of the fibers, there is no irritation on the skin. In addition, complete moisture exchange occurs and the development of bacteria under the product is prevented. The bandage is produced in the USA, so its cost is quite high - about 5,500 rubles. One of the advantages of this model is that it is almost impossible to notice under clothes.
How to wear it correctly
First of all, you need to learn how to put on a bandage correctly so that it performs its functions and does not cause harm. To be sure, it is better to do this the first time in the presence of a doctor, who will monitor the process and point out errors. If this is not possible, carefully read the instructions that come with the orthopedic product and follow all the instructions step by step.
The bandage is put on while lying down, all movements are made slowly and carefully so as not to damage the applied stitches. You should not put too much pressure on your body; the product should be comfortable.
The first time, wear the bandage for no more than 2 hours, then remove it and rest for an hour. If there is no pain or discomfort, wear the product for a maximum of 6 hours without a break, then rest for half an hour. The period of use of the medical device is individual in each case and is adjusted by the supervising specialist. Basically, it takes from 2 weeks to 2 months.
When to wear for the first time
If there are no contraindications, then the bandage can be worn for the first time directly in the maternity hospital, a few days after the operation. This is convenient because there is a doctor nearby who will check whether the woman is dressing correctly. If for some reason it is impossible to do this in the maternity hospital, they adhere to the specialist’s recommendations and begin to wear the bandage from the date specified by him.
Is it permissible to sleep in the product?
Despite the fact that some instructions for medical devices indicate that they can be left on at night, doctors do not recommend doing this. This will not bring additional benefit and will not speed up the healing of sutures, but will only disrupt blood circulation and have a negative effect on internal organs.
When can I shoot?
It is not worth staying in an orthopedic product all day; you need to give your body rest. The maximum duration of wearing the bandage should not exceed 6 hours, but, if possible, it is worth removing it more often.
When the need for a bandage disappears
The orthopedic product is removed when the stitches have completely healed and a scar has formed. Each girl takes a different amount of time to do this. The process is controlled by a gynecologist; he will tell you the exact time when the need for a bandage disappears. It is not recommended to use the product for a long time.
How long will you have to wear the bandage?
Regarding the duration of use of the device, this is determined individually, taking into account the condition of the woman in labor, the complications that arose after the operation and other points.
The average time period is 4-9 weeks, but it can be extended if an unsatisfactory effect is observed. However, the doctor’s opinion is important in this matter.
Is it possible to sleep in it?
Constantly wearing supportive underwear or a belt, much less sleeping in them, is strictly prohibited. This can lead to serious circulatory problems affecting the functioning of internal organs. Therefore, the bandage must be removed during night sleep.
Support for the abdominal muscles is necessary for women who have undergone surgical childbirth. But moderation is important in everything, so you should follow the rules for wearing such products and take into account the opinion of your doctor. If you follow all the recommendations, a bandage after a cesarean section will reduce the discomfort associated with the postoperative period and help you quickly return to your previous shape.
We recommend reading: Hormonal imbalance after childbirth: symptoms and recovery time, treatment of the disorder
Rules for caring for a bandage
In order for a medical device to serve the required period, it is necessary to properly care for it. If the bandage is worn over linen, there is no need for daily washing, otherwise it is better to purchase several products so that you do not have to dry it on a radiator.
Wash bandages of any model only by hand, using delicate detergents. Do not add bleaches or stain removal solutions to the water. Recommended temperature is from 30 to 40 degrees. The product is not twisted so as not to deform it.
After washing and rinsing, wrap it in a terry towel and blot it. To dry, lay out on a flat surface with a dry towel. Make sure that the bandage is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Alternative options
There are alternative options to replace the bandage after a caesarean section. Elastic bandages are used for this, and a sterile bandage is applied to the wound. However, the inconvenience of this method is that the woman will not be able to bandage her body on her own. In addition, this procedure will have to be carried out 3-4 times a day.
Another option for replacing a bandage is elastic underwear. It does not compress the body so much, allows the skin to breathe and does not have a negative effect on the wound after surgery. If the wound is small and the stitches are neat, they may recommend using a sterile bandage.
