*The information in this post is not intended as or meant to replace medical advice. Before beginning a waist training regimen, always seek the advice of a medical professional*
Though there are loads of reasons why some of us become interested in corsets and waist training, I'd say a very popular if not most common reason, is to create a smaller waist. And I know that I at least speak for myself when I say that perhaps no one misses their "once-was-waist" more than a woman who is either approaching the end of her pregnancy or has just recently given birth.
Here are 3 of the most common questions asked in relation to pregnancy, childbirth and corseting:
1. "I'm in my last trimester of pregnancy and want to buy a corset now for after I give birth. Should I buy a size that would have fit my waist before I was pregnant?"
Let me tell you, there is almost nothing a woman is more ready for than childbirth as she approaches the end of her last trimester! As such, it is completely understandable to start considering things like having a corset ready and available for the day that you will once again be able to lace up.
However, setting our excitement aside, it is wise to be patient and wait until after you've given birth to select a corset.
Since the size of corset is crucial for keeping things comfortable and to avoid any possible damage to the garment, or worse yet, injury to oneself, you will be best to measure yourself after you've had your little bundle of joy.
You should also note that for several weeks (if not months) following the birth of your child, you will still have something of a belly. For many woman, their belly looks something like it did at the end of their first trimester or very beginning of their second. Though this isn't permanent and your tummy will eventually go back to its normal relaxed state, this will definitely impact which size corset will best meet your needs if your doctor has given you the green light to lace up straight after you've given birth.
2. "How soon after childbirth can I wear a corset?"
This is where you will absolutely have to ask your doctor for their medical opinion. For example, for those who have to undergo a c-section, wearing a corset before you've had the chance to heal properly is a definite no-go.
If you had a natural childbirth (i.e. did not require a c-section), then some doctors will tell you that it is okay to begin wearing either a girdle or corset as soon as you are ready to return to your home.
Again: this one is a question best suited for your doctor to answer, as only they know your current condition and whether it would be of benefit or not.
3. "Will wearing a corset after childbirth affect/limit my ability to breastfeed?"
Though I can give some pointers/tips on this subject, the best person to answer this one is again,your doctor. They will be best equipped to answer any question you might have on the topic and they would best know if there is any reason you may want to wait to get back into your corset until after you've decided to stop breastfeeding.
If you have already inquired with your doctor and they see no reason why corseting would in anyway negatively impact or limit your ability to breastfeed, then there are a few things you should consider for convenience sake:
-Stick to an underbust corset.
I couldn't personally imagine anything more impractical wearing an overbust corset if you've decided to breastfeed your little one. Nursing bras, easy to remove tops/blouses can be complicated enough: stick to to an underbust.
-Keeping your corset dry
Its a fact of nature: your breasts will leak. Whether you choose to breastfeed or not, you get to look forward to wet spots on your bra and blouse/top for a good bit of time to come.
In order to keep your corset and other garments dry, they do sell inserts to place in the bra to aid with absorption. As these can be quite expensive, an alternative is to cut a sanitary napkin in half and place them in the bonnets/cups of your bra. Voila! No more milky messes :)
And there you have a few simple tips and tricks to help you get back into your corset! But again, ALWAYS consult with a medical professional before making any hasty decisions about when to start corseting after childbirth.
Happy lacing!
