Pooja HalbePostpartum leggings look similar to regular leggings but that’s where the similarity ends! Regular leggings are meant to give you a toned and smooth appearance. Postpartum leggings also look sleek but they have several other design features that cater specifically to the needs of a new mom. One of the downsides of postpartum leggings is that most of them cost about $100 but you can get a good pair for $25 or less if you know where to shop. Checking reviews from the parenting community and advice from experts on the best postpartum leggings will help you compare and choose the best option for your individual needs. Here are a few ways in which postpartum leggings are different from regular leggings:
1. Support
Unlike regular leggings, postpartum leggings are specifically designed to address the needs of postpartum recovery which includes support to the back, abdomen and pelvic area. Many postpartum leggings also have a thick waist elastic that is a little stretchy but not as much as regular leggings. This band helps to support your upper and lower belly as well as your back which is helpful after a C-section if you have diastasis recti (abdominal separation) due to your pregnancy. Pregnancy and childbirth also take a toll on your back muscles so the additional support will make everyday tasks like grocery shopping or even carrying your baby a little easier.
2. Compression
Regular leggings provide very little to no compression but postpartum leggings provide enough compression to “hold everything in”. After you give birth to your baby, it takes a while for your uterus to return to your pre-pregnancy size which is why your belly looks swollen even after you give birth. Your belly also had to stretch a lot to accommodate your baby so it’s likely that you will also have excess skin around your midsection. The compression from postpartum leggings will help to address these issues and it doesn’t hurt that they are also very flattering! Compression from postpartum leggings is gentle enough that you can use them even if you have a C-section scar. They provide different amounts of compression to different areas so that they are still comfortable to wear on a daily basis. Additionally, postpartum leggings work in a similar way as compression stockings to help improve blood circulation in your legs which will reduce foot swelling.
3. Seamless
Most regular leggings have seams, although the seam placement and construction vary greatly from one product to the next. Most postpartum leggings are seamless to reduce irritation around the abdominal and pelvic areas. This also reduces the risk of chaffing which makes them more comfortable to wear during the first few weeks of the postpartum recovery period. The seamless construction also means that the leggings are more flexible which helps you move around more easily.
4. High Waist Design
Regular leggings are typically mid to low waist height but postpartum leggings have a high waistline. This provides additional coverage and support to your core muscles that are likely to have weakened during pregnancy. A high waist design also provides more support to the lower back to help your back muscles heal faster. The higher waist also helps to gently hold in the abdomen which is more comfortable, especially if you have undergone a C-section. The high waistband offers light tummy control, which can help new moms feel more confident by smoothing and shaping their midsection.
5. Comfort
Regular leggings are comfortable but when you’ve just given birth, you need leggings that take comfort up a notch! Your skin is more sensitive during this time and you may sweat a lot as your body tries to get rid of the excess fluid build-up in your body. Postpartum leggings are made from softer, more breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics so that your sore and tired body gets the care it desperately needs. Postpartum leggings are also easy to put on and take off to ensure minimal discomfort while changing your clothes.
