Belly binding is a tradition that we can trace back centuries, and Bengkung belly binding is a Malaysian practice using cotton or muslin cloth to wrap a new parent. Keep reading to learn more.
You may have heard about the Velcro wraps and belly binders that some new parents use after birth, but what about the Bengkung style of binding? As a postpartum doula, this ancient art is something I love to practice with my doula care clients.
It’s a unique and beautiful practice to help honor and support someone who has just given birth and encourage the recovery process.
In general, what is postpartum belly binding?
Belly binding can begin anywhere from a few days to a few weeks postpartum.
The abdominal wrapping is repeated as part of the healing process every two to three days and has various benefits for someone who has just given birth, such as lower back support, added stability for vital organs, and helps with the closure of separated abdominal muscles in a woman’s midsection.
Four reasons you should Bengkung belly bind
At a glance, here are some of the benefits:
Decreased pain during recovery
Lessens swelling after birth
Closes abdominal muscles
It supports your pelvic floor
Provides emotional support opportunities
Let me begin by clarifying that the primary purpose of belly binding is not to lose weight or “bounce back” to your pre-pregnancy weight.
Rather, this ancient binding technique is used to gently encourage your pre-pregnancy shape, all while supporting the ancient art of traditional Malaysian belly binding.
Remember, it took months to grow your baby. Postpartum is the time to give yourself (and your body) some much-needed grace.
1. Can decrease pain during recovery
After delivery, your body will have contractions, called uterine involution, and binding can reduce the after-birth contraction pain and discomfort they cause in the immediate postpartum period.
2. Can lessen swelling after birth
You’ll feel swollen from the extra blood in your body during pregnancy to any medication you are given during labor. Binding will reduce swelling and increase circulation using ancient wrapping techniques.
3. Can close the abdominal muscles
Diastasis recti is a gap between the abdominal walls. Pregnancy can separate the abdominal walls, but diastasis recti can develop if they don’t heal properly.
The abdominal walls are held together with belly binding to speed recovery and prevent – or improve – diastasis recti and encourage toning of the abdominal muscles.
4. Supports your back and pelvic floor
Belly binding also supports your body. When belly binding, your back – tired from holding and feeding a baby – will feel supported, and you’ll feel more comfortable. Hopefully, belly binding will help alleviate some of the constant pressure you feel while recovering.
Binding can help protect your pelvic floor, which we often neglect during recovery. This support is so crucial while healing.
Emotional benefits of belly binding
There are emotional benefits to belly binding. Traditional Ayurveda in postpartum believes that giving birth creates air in the womb that needs to be warmed and nourished, and belly binding provides that comfort.
Often, a doula or family member will lovingly wrap the new mother’s abdomen with a long piece of cloth, which definitely helps any new parent feel cared for and loved.
Some describe belly binding as a warm and supportive hug, which new birth parents often need. Pair binding with an abdominal massage, and you’ll be well on your way to a more supported postpartum recovery period.
Birth parents often put themselves last during the early days with a newborn. But setting aside this time to take care of your body shows that you’re prioritizing yourself, even through a simple wrapping session.
It sets the tone for caring for yourself in the future.
If you have a specialist visit your home, you’ll also create a safe space to process your feelings. You can share your wins and your worries.
This is also a way to have a birth worker check on you before your official six-week postpartum appointment; they can give non-medical support on your postpartum recovery or your baby.
Getting started with Bengkung belly binding
Getting started with Bengkung belly binding is relatively straightforward, but there are some essential considerations to keep in mind.
Get cleared for binding
First and foremost, you want to ensure you are cleared for binding. The most significant consideration for this is how you gave birth – vaginally or with a c-section.
Always check with your health care provider if you are unsure or have questions.
Vaginal delivery : you can begin belly binding a few days after delivery when you’re comfortable and ready.
Cesarean delivery: It’s always a good idea to check with your medical provider, but you could start after the first few weeks have passed.
Purchase your Benkung belly wrap
There is a variety on the market, but generally, look for a long strip of cloth made of natural fibers.
A few Bengkung belly binder options:
Then, once your body is ready, begin wrapping. You can do it yourself by watching videos or following this helpful guide.
Wear the correct clothing
You can choose to either wrap it against your bare skin or over a thin protective layer of comfortable clothes at first. If you are breastfeeding, make sure your underlayer is nursing-accessible.
Follow step-by-step instructions
The easiest way to learn how to tie a Bengkung belly binder is to watch a binding-tying video. It outlines all the steps you need to know to properly and comfortably wear your binder to encourage the right postural support.
Final tips for Bengkung belly binding
1. Set aside time
You will need at least fifteen to twenty minutes to apply the bind properly.
2. Don’t wrap it too tightly
Remember, the goal isn’t to lose weight; it’s to help your body recover and heal. It shouldn’t feel uncomfortable but snuggly supportive.
3. Know when to wear it
Once you’ve wrapped, keep your bind on anywhere from fourteen to forty hours. It should feel comfortable this entire time. Then, take a day or two off in between wrapping sessions.
4. Listen to your body
Some days might feel better than others – that’s not only okay, it’s perfectly normal. Honor what your body needs in each moment, and it will repay you with more profound healing.
Remember, this method of postpartum care is a traditional practice rooted deeply in postpartum support throughout various countries around the world. You’re in good hands.
GIGI VERA VINCENT
As a postpartum doula, teacher, and mother, I’m here to streamline the newborn learning curve and help birth parents, partners, and other family members. There isn’t one way to have and raise a little human. I’m here to guide parents to find their way to become confident parents.
