During pregnancy
women experience a variety of aches and pains. Maternity belts are elastic belts that come in many shapes and sizes to accommodate the needs of most pregnant women. Maternity belts help redistribute some of the added weight and take pressure off certain parts of the body.
Significance
Pregnancy belts are designed to take pressure off of, typically, either the lower back or the bladder. Due to the uneven distribution of weight during pregnancy, maternity belts even out some of the pressure to make the mother-to-be more comfortable.
Types
The type of pain you are experiencing during pregnancy will dictate the type of maternity belt that will best suit you. Some belts wrap underneath the stomach so as to both provide support as well as lift the belly to relieve pressure. Other maternity belts cross up and around the shoulders to use the upper body to support the extra weight in the pelvic region.
Warnings
Although a maternity belt might provide relief, it is important to always check with your obstetrician to assure that you are not having pre-term contractions. Determining the cause of the pain is important before seeking a solution to ensure you are receiving the proper treatment.
Usage
Some women may feel like they need to wear the maternity belt all day, whereas others may only choose to wear it while exercising, or at night after the pressure has built up over the course of the day. Individual usage is up to the woman and how often she feels she needs to wear it.
Considerations
Although a maternity belt can relieve pressure and reduce pain, not every woman will need one during her pregnancy. Some doctors may recommend maternity belts sooner for women who are having multiples, and in those cases, the belt may even be covered by insurance as a medical need.
