Bengkung Belly Binding (Coming Soon)
What is Bengkung Belly Binding
Bengkung Belly Binding is the art of wrapping the postpartum body for physical support and to help hasten the recovery process after childbirth. This belly binding technique uses a long strip of cloth to wrap around the abdomen from the hips to the ribcage. Women are traditionally wrapped as soon after birth as possible, ideally on day five and then worn for 40 days or longer as needed. The Bengkung belly binding technique is rooted in Malaysian culture however various countries and cultures around the world use a form of belly binding to help support the healing process.
Belly Binding Benefits:
- Provides postural support for the torso and organs as they return to pre-pregnancy position
- Supports and assists abdominal wall healing and diastasis recti recovery
- Supports the body's natural spine and posture realignment post birth
- Constant pressure on the torso and abdomen hastens healing by reducing water, fat and air in the tissue and cells
- Stabilizes loose ligaments
- Helps to prevent and relieve lower back aches and strains
- Prevents slouching while feeding or holding your child
When can you start?
For vaginal births: You can start binding during the first week postpartum. Usually 2-3 days after delivery. It is recommended to start 3-5 days postpartum and as always, get permission from your care provider first.
For cesarean births: After a cesarean birth it is not recommend to start until after your incision has healed, staples and/or stitches have been removed, and your care provider clears you for wrapping. Typically this is somewhere between 4-6 weeks postpartum.
How long should I bind? Belly binding is most effective during the first 8 weeks postpartum but can be useful for support after that time frame. It’s never too late to start binding! It seems to be most effective when done on a daily basis of 8-12 hours a day for about 40 days. You can certainly choose to do it for shorter periods of time, but there is no need to exceed 12 hours a day. Your body needs time to breathe and relax without the wrap in place.