Introduction
Cesarean section is the most commonly done abdominal surgery globally. The most common complaint associated with it is pain. Injury to the local site is the most common concern during the early postpartum days. This can lead them to think of ways to avoid mobilization of the area, thereby reducing the risk of thromboembolism. One of the non-pharmacological methods to immobilize the area is using abdominal binders. A wide belt surrounds the abdominal area and supports the surgical site.
What Are Abdominal Binders?
An abdominal belt is available in various sizes and widths. It is a compression belt that encircles the abdomen. They are elastic and have velcro or a hook to join together. Some abdominal binders available in the market offer lumbar support. Others feature straps to hold the surgical drainage tubes. An abdominal binder supports the abdomen after abdominal surgery, aiding a faster recovery.
When Is an Abdominal Binder Used?
Abdominal binders may be suggested after a:
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Bariatric surgery (a surgical procedure for weight loss).
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Cesarean delivery.
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Exploratory laparoscopy.
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Hysterectomy (a surgical procedure to remove a part or complete part of the uterus).
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A tummy tuck (a surgical procedure to reduce belly fat).
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Spinal surgeries.
Especially positioned abdominal binders in people can help to:
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Support the abdomen.
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Maintain the abdominal pressure.
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Improve respiratory pressure.
What Are the Benefits of an Abdominal Binder?
Many women may have weird feelings about their abdomen after delivery, as the muscles and ligaments have been stretched. A belly band helps to provide more stability to the loose abdominal muscles. In addition, they can help with posture. They help to feel better as the new mother heals. The uterus is still getting back to its shape and size. Hence, a belly binder will also help reduce the appearance of a pregnant belly. It can be precious to mothers who underwent a cesarean, as they support the abdomen, preventing the stitches from being stretched. They also help to reduce the discomfort.
When Can One Start to Wear an Abdominal Binder After a C-Section?
Abdominal binders can be started the next day after a C-section if the doctor advises. The doing should be taken care of while wearing an abdominal belt after a C-section:
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There should be no signs of infection.
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The wounds are closed.
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The new mother has normal blood pressure.
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The new mother has no signs of pre-eclampsia (a condition that is a potentially dangerous complication due to high blood pressure).
However, in some cases, doctors suggest waiting for six weeks after a C-section. This is the usual time that it takes to heal the wound. This might be recommended if:
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The wound becomes irritated.
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The healing is slow, probably due to obesity or high blood sugar.
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History of C-section suture complications.
How Long Can One Wear an Abdominal Binder After a C-Section?
The abdominal belt can initially be worn for about two to four hours a day. The duration can be increased gradually as the mother gets adjusted to it. It can be used for eight to twelve hours a day. However, using it for more than twelve hours a day is not recommended, as the incision requires air for proper healing. The belt should be worn during the day while the person is active and requires support. Using the abdominal binder while sleeping can be uncomfortable. It can have negative impacts, like acid reflux (a condition when the acids from the stomach flow back to the esophagus) and restricted blood flow.
When Can One Stop to Wear an Abdominal Binder After a C-Section?
The use of an abdominal belt can be stopped twelve weeks after a C-section. The abdominal area would be healed by this time, and prolonged use of the binder would not benefit more than providing support for the area. When the belt is continued for over three months, the body adapts to it. As a result, the abdominal muscles can weaken in the long run.
Are There Any Risks of Wearing an Abdominal Binder?
If the abdominal binder causes pain while using, it can denote that it is smaller than required. They can hinder blood circulation and cause acid reflux. Doctors do not recommend the prolonged use of the abdominal belt and its use at night. The other risks associated can include:
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Irritation to the wound.
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Infection in the suture site.
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Prolapse of the uterus.
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Rashes.
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Shallow breathing.
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Digestive Issues.
Can an Abdominal Binder Help to Reduce Tummy After a C-Section?
An abdominal binder helps to provide support and strain after a C-section. However, it does not reduce tummy fat after delivery. The abdominal belt may help to jump back into the pre-pregnancy clothes while using it. However, once the abdominal binder is removed, the belly bounces back into its previous state.
Can an Abdominal Binder Help to Reduce Diastasis Recti After a C-Section?
The separation of the abdominal muscles after pregnancy is called diastasis recti. It can get back to the older state in a few women. However, in a majority of cases, it might require a surgical repair or regular exercises might be required. While using abdominal binders to reduce diastasis recti may appear logical, studies show that its effectiveness is questionable.
What Are the Types of Abdominal Binders Available?
Many types of abdominal binders are available in the market in this era. They come in various shapes and sizes. The material used for the binder can also be different. Some may have velcro attached, while others can have hooks attached. The use of cotton binders is generally advised to prevent irritation of the skin.
Conclusion
The correct use of an abdominal binder can aid the healing after a Cesarean delivery. It provides support to the abdominal muscles and prevents stretching of the stitches. However, studies show that it does not reduce the belly after delivery, be it a vaginal one or a C-section. An abdominal binder must be used according to a doctor’s advice. The binder's duration may last up to twelve weeks after delivery, but not more than that, as it does not have much effect on the muscles. The binder can be used for two to three hours initially, and later, the duration can be increased. However, it must not be used for more than twelve hours daily.
