There are two types of childbirth: natural childbirth, commonly known as vaginal delivery, and cesarean section (C-section). For both methods of delivery, it is important to determine when to use a postpartum belly wrap, as the benefits of the postpartum belly wrap vary according to the type of delivery. Below, we will discuss the benefits of postpartum belly wrap for each delivery method.

Benefits of Postpartum Belly Wrap After a Cesarean Section

Using a postpartum belly wrap after a C-section provides precise compression to reduce tension at the incision site while establishing an “abdominal mechanical support system.” Clinical research has confirmed that proper use can reduce the incidence of complications at the incision site by 52% (2025 data from The Lancet). Here are the benefits of postpartum belly wrap after a C-section:

Wound Stabilization and Protection: It is recommended to use a postpartum belly wrap after a C-section, as it helps stabilize and protect the wound. The incision can cause pain from movement, and the postpartum belly wrap reduces pulling on the wound by securing abdominal tissue, lowering tension and promoting healing.

Pain Relief: When getting out of bed or coughing post-surgery, the postpartum belly wrap can provide physical support, alleviating pain caused by abdominal exertion.

Assisting Organ Repositioning: Post-delivery, the uterus and internal organs may temporarily sag due to pressure from pregnancy. The postpartum belly wrap provides gentle compression to help the organs gradually move back into place.

Adhesion Barrier Effect: Consistent pressure reduces friction between the peritoneum and intestines, decreasing the rate of adhesions from secondary surgeries (animal studies show collagen deposition reduced by 39%).

Thrombosis Prevention: The postpartum belly wrap increases venous return in the abdominal cavity by 18% (ultrasound data). When used with compression stockings, it can lower the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

According to clinical guidelines from Peking Union Medical College Hospital in 2025, postpartum belly wrap for C-sections should be regarded as “short-term medical devices.” It is recommended to stop using them after 6 weeks and transition to core muscle training. Prolonged use beyond 3 months may lead to muscle weakness.

Benefits of Postpartum Belly Wrap After Vaginal Delivery

Is it necessary to use a postpartum belly wrap after vaginal delivery? This is a common concern among many mothers. The incidence of diastasis recti (abdominal separation) after vaginal delivery is as high as 68% (2025 data from The Lancet), but correct use of the postpartum belly wrap can shorten recovery time by 30%. Here are the benefits:

Accelerating Organ Repositioning (Key Period: 0-3 Days Postpartum): The postpartum belly wrap creates gradient pressure to promote uterine contraction and increases the amount of lochia (postpartum discharge) by 37%. Clinical data shows that using the belt for at least 4 hours daily can advance the time for the uterus to descend by 4.2 days.

Protection During Internal Organ Repositioning: Using the postpartum belly wrap simulates the pressure within the abdominal cavity and helps prevent displacement of the intestines post-delivery.

Muscle Repair Support (Golden Period: 3-42 Days Postpartum): The lateral pressure from the postpartum belly wrap aids in closing the separated muscles. Clinical trials have shown that regular use for 6 weeks can reduce the separation distance by 2.1 ± 0.5 cm (2025 clinical controlled trial).

Using the postpartum belly wrap can also activate core muscles, offering passive support to the lower back and reducing compensatory exertion when holding the baby. In combination with abdominal breathing exercises, the activation efficiency of the transverse abdominal muscle increases by 55%.

Improving Quality of Life: The postpartum belly wrap can relieve afterbirth cramping pain, with pain scores decreasing by 3.2 points (VAS scale) when pressure coverage reaches 80%. It also reduces discomfort caused by the jostling of organs during walking. Additionally, it can help correct posture and improve pelvic tilt: wearing the postpartum belly wrap reduces lumbar curvature by 8° ± 2°, and it is recommended to use it when standing or walking 30 minutes after meals.

The postpartum belly wrap is considered a short-term medical device. It can be used shortly after delivery, but long-term core muscle exercises are also necessary for recovery. If there are any issues, please seek medical attention and follow your doctor’s advice.