What Are Compression Garments?

Compression garments are snug-fitting pieces of clothing designed to apply gentle pressure to specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, legs, and pelvic region. They come in various forms, including:

• Maternity belts and belly bands: These provide extra support to the lower back and abdomen.

• Compression stockings: Used to reduce swelling in the legs and improve circulation.

• Postpartum recovery garments: Designed to offer abdominal and pelvic support after childbirth.

Benefits of Compression Garments During Pregnancy

1.Reducing Swelling (Oedema)
Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, known as oedema, is a common pregnancy symptom, especially in the third trimester. This occurs due to increased blood volume and the pressure from the growing uterus on the veins in your lower body.

How Compression Helps

Compression stockings are designed to improve circulation by applying graded pressure, which is stronger at the ankles and gradually decreases up the leg. This helps blood flow back to the heart, reducing swelling and discomfort. Compression stockings have been found to alleviate pregnancy-related oedema and other pregnancy-related symptoms.

Tip: Look for compression stockings with graduated compression of 15-30 mmHg, depending on your needs. Always consult your healthcare provider before choosing the right level of compression.

2. Preventing Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that often appear in the legs during pregnancy due to increased pressure and hormonal changes. These veins can be uncomfortable, cause aching, and worsen over time if left unmanaged.

How Compression Helps

Wearing compression stockings during pregnancy has been shown to prevent the formation of varicose veins and alleviate the associated discomfort. Research indicates that compression therapy reduces the progression of varicose veins and minimizes symptoms such as pain and heaviness (Level 1 evidence). By supporting the veins, compression stockings reduce the strain and pressure placed on the legs.

3. Relieving Back and Pelvic Pain
Lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain are common during pregnancy due to the weight of the growing baby and the shifting of your center of gravity. Many women experience discomfort in the lower back, hips, and pubic area, particularly in the third trimester.

How Compression Helps

Maternity belts and belly bands provide external support to your lower back and pelvis, helping to alleviate pain by reducing the strain on your ligaments and muscles. A systematic review found that wearing maternity support belts during pregnancy significantly reduces pelvic girdle pain and improves mobility (Level 1 evidence). These garments are especially useful for women who are on their feet for long periods or those experiencing severe pelvic pain.

4. Improving Posture and Supporting the Abdominal Muscles
As your belly grows, maintaining good posture becomes increasingly challenging. Compression garments, such as belly bands, help support your abdominal muscles, reduce the load on your back, and improve posture.

How Compression Helps

By gently lifting and supporting the weight of the growing belly, maternity belts can reduce strain on the lower back muscles and promote better posture. Research supports the use of compression garments to enhance comfort and reduce musculoskeletal pain during pregnancy (Level 1 evidence).

Benefits of Compression Garments Postpartum

1.Supporting Abdominal Recovery
After childbirth, the abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis, are weakened and may require extra support to aid in recovery. Diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles, is a common postpartum condition that can benefit from gentle compression.

How Compression Helps

Postpartum compression garments can help by providing abdominal support as the muscles heal. A study on postpartum recovery showed that women who used abdominal binders or compression garments reported better support, reduced pain, and improved functional mobility compared to those who didn’t use them (Level 1 evidence). However, it's essential to combine compression with core-strengthening exercises for optimal recovery.

2. Reducing Postpartum Swelling
Swelling often persists after childbirth, particularly in the legs and feet, due to fluid retention and changes in blood circulation. This is especially common in women who had a cesarean delivery or received intravenous fluids during labor.

How Compression Helps

Compression stockings or leggings can help reduce swelling by improving blood flow and facilitating the removal of excess fluids. Studies have shown that postpartum women who wear compression garments experience faster resolution of edema and reduced discomfort (Level 1 evidence).

3. Supporting Pelvic Floor Health
The pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, bowel, and uterus, are stretched and weakened during pregnancy and childbirth. Wearing postpartum compression garments can help provide external support to the pelvic area, especially during the early recovery period.

How Compression Helps

By offering gentle pressure to the pelvic region, compression garments can help stabilize the pelvic floor and reduce symptoms like pelvic heaviness. However, compression garments should be used in conjunction with pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFMT) to improve recovery and prevent conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse (Level 1 evidence).

How to Choose the Right Compression Garment

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Before using any compression garment, especially if you have underlying medical conditions, consult your doctor or physiotherapist. They can guide you on the appropriate level of compression and help you select the right garment.

2. Ensure a Proper Fit: Compression garments should be snug but not uncomfortably tight. The right fit is essential for providing effective support without restricting circulation.

3. Look for Quality Fabrics: Choose garments made from breathable, stretchy materials that provide comfort, especially for prolonged wear during pregnancy and postpartum.

When to Seek Professional Advice

While compression garments offer many benefits, they are not a replacement for medical treatment. If you experience severe swelling, pain, or any unusual symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional advice. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help assess your needs and recommend the most appropriate treatments and exercises to support your pelvic health during pregnancy and postpartum.

Conclusion

Compression garments can be highly beneficial during pregnancy and postpartum, offering support for your abdomen, pelvis, and legs while alleviating common symptoms like swelling, varicose veins, and back pain. With the right fit and level of compression, these garments can help improve comfort and promote recovery, backed by strong scientific evidence. However, always combine the use of compression garments with proper exercise, hydration, and professional guidance to ensure the best outcomes for your health.