The 9 Best Postpartum Shapewear for Confidence & Comfort in 2024

You’re beautiful, even if you don’t feel it right now. It takes time for a new mom to get back in shape. Human bodies are amazing at how well they can bounce back from giving birth, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Happily, the best postpartum shapewear can give you confidence and comfort while your body recovers.

Benefits of Postpartum Shapewear

What’s nice is that you can wear many types of fashionable shapewear with any outfit. For example, there are belly bands to support abdominal muscles and recovery wraps to prevent back pain. Compression tanks, underwear, and fajas smooth curves and urge better posture.

Still, concerns about body shape should take a backseat during the postpartum period. It’s more urgent to relieve pain from strained abdominal muscles and postpartum backaches. Persistent symptoms of symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) or pelvic girdle pain (PGP) from stretched ligaments cause significant discomfort. On a bright note, those experiencing these types of soreness find shapewear comfortable and helpful for alleviating the problem.

Here are the top four reasons to try postpartum shapewear:

• Stabilization and support for muscles and ligaments
• Posture correction
• Pain reduction and a sense of comfort
• The feeling of confidence that comes from a smoother silhouette

However, there is a downside. Don’t depend on your support garments to return you to a pre-maternity size. Getting back in shape requires taking care of your body, not squeezing it into a bodysuit. Make sure you’re eating well and getting exercise. Don’t be hard on yourself if you can’t size down. And please don’t purchase shapewear that’s too tight.

How to Choose the Best Postpartum Shapewear

Following are tips to help you find shapewear that will help you feel comfortable and confident.

Comfort is Key: Look for shapewear made from soft, breathable materials that won’t cause irritation or excess sweating. For example, cotton and bamboo are wise choices. Also, ensure it doesn’t dig into your skin or limit your movements.

Size and Fit: Select shapewear in your current postpartum size. Avoid sizing down, as it can be uncomfortable and even harm your recovery. Many brands provide sizing guides to help you find the right fit, but it helps to purchase from places with an easy return policy.

Support Level: Determine the level of support you need. Some postpartum shapewear provides light compression for everyday wear, while others offer more substantial support. Choose the level that suits your comfort and recovery goals.

Consult A Healthcare Provider: If you have medical concerns or are unsure which type of shapewear is best for your situation, consult your healthcare provider.

Type of Shapewear: There are various types of postpartum shapewear, including belly bands, shorts, underwear, tanks, leggings, and full-body suits. Consider your needs and the areas you want to target for support or shaping.

Easy to Put On and Take Off: Look for shapewear that’s easy to don and doff, especially if you use it frequently. This is particularly important for bathroom breaks!

C-Section Friendly: If you had a C-section, choose shapewear specifically designed for C-section recovery. It should have a panel that avoids putting pressure on the incision area.

Durability and Care Instructions: Consider the quality and durability of the shapewear. Check customer reviews and brand reputation to make sure it holds up well over time. And for heaven’s sake, get stuff that’s easy to wash!

Remember that postpartum shapewear is a tool to help your recovery. It should never cause pain or discomfort. Prioritize your well-being over fashion.

Types of Postpartum Shapewear

Postpartum shapewear comes in various types and styles. Each targets specific areas and provides different levels of support and compression. Here are common types of postpartum shapewear.

Belly Bands

Postnatal belly wraps are wide bands that wrap around the abdomen. They support the abdominal muscles, improve spinal alignment, and reduce the appearance of postpartum belly bulge. A postpartum belly band can apply gentle compression and protect healing cesarean incisions. In 2019, a study in The Eurasian Journal of Medicine reported that women wearing wraps after C-sections could walk longer distances and had less pain within 48 hours post-surgery than those who did not use them.

With that said, be careful which belly band you choose. Avoid stiff corsets and waist trainers. Instead, select wraps that are adjustable and flexible. Also, please don’t wear the band 24 hours a day, or it may weaken your core muscles.

Belly Bandit – Original Postpartum Belly Wrap

Belly Bandit is a trusted brand for postpartum, maternity, and nursing support products. Its original Belly Bandit continues to be a bestselling recovery wrap for new moms. It comes in sizes from extra small to extra large, with an extender option for a customizable fit. Furthermore, it’s available in either black or nude to stay as invisible as possible under your clothing.

The fabric is 83% polyester and 17% spandex with a Velcro closure. Its Power Compress Core design supports abdominal muscles to speed recovery from diastasis recti. Therefore, not only do doctors recommend it, but HSAs and FSAs offer reimbursement, too.

KeaBabies 3-in-1 Postpartum Belly Support Recovery Wrap

Check out this belly band if you’d like more colors and sizes up to 2XL without an additional purchase. The breathable mesh material is soft and suitable for all-day wear but holds up well after repeated washing. It offers versatile support for postpartum recovery, catering to stomach, pelvis, hip, and waist areas. It allows for adjustable use with one, two, or three belts based on your recovery stage. It can improve mobility, core strength, and posture with gentle compression. Moreover, it’s beneficial for closing the gaps between abdominal muscles after childbirth. Just be sure to pay attention to the directions for how to wrap it.

Control Top Underwear

Postpartum undies support the lower abdomen, pelvic area, and smooth hips and bum. Some come with a built-in tummy panel to offer additional support and control.

Motherhood Maternity 2-Pack Postpartum Essentials Seamless Support Underwear

Made from 63% cotton, 23% nylon, and 14% spandex, these panties are stretchy, discreet, and breathable. They come in sizes from small to 3x in black and nude colors. The fold-over waistband makes them ideal for postpartum wear, particularly after a C-section. Moreover, the crotch is wide enough for panty liners.

These panties can be worn daily and remain discreet under clothing. They offer light compression and a high-waisted design, making them suitable for various activities, including lounging or working. They are also wide enough to comfortably accommodate a panty liner without sticking to the thighs, providing a soft and comfortable option for postpartum support.

Ingrid & Isabel Basics Seamless Postpartum Compression Underwear

You’ll love these seamless, moisture-wicking panties if you have sensitive skin. They feature 360-degree stretch over the belly, ensuring they maintain their shape while smoothing your tummy. The firm compression engages core muscles for added support. Happy moms say they are beneficial for C-section recovery, even with swelling. Choose from S to XL based on your pre-maternity size.

Post-Pregnancy Shorts

Postnatal shorts offer similar benefits to postpartum underwear. The additional leg length may be more comfortable for some without feeling as hot as leggings. Also, shorts may offer better smoothing on the back and sides.

SHAPERMINT High-Waisted Body Shaper Shorts

These pull-on shapewear shorts are made with a silky, breathable fabric that slims the tummy, thighs, and back. The high waist has an anti-slip silicone strip to prevent it from rolling down.

The material is 90% nylon and 10% spandex for the perfect support and stretch. What’s more, the shorts are machine-washable and available in several colors.

Compression Tanks

Tank tops or camisoles offer support and shaping for the chest, midsection, and back. They can be worn as an undergarment or as a standalone top.

Maidenform Long Length Shapewear Cami

Here’s a firm-control camisole for support and smoothing from the bust to the hips. It’s longer than average for added coverage of the waist and upper hips. There’s even a hidden panel on the chest that focuses on the back and tummy. Just adjust the straps for the perfect fit.

The silky microfiber fabric is 87% nylon and 13% elastane, so it wicks away moisture and feels cool and lightweight. Feel free to wear it alone or as a layer. It comes in 3 colors: black, white, and latte lift brown.

Thigh and Butt Shapers

These shapewear pieces focus on the middle of the body. They can help lift and shape these areas, providing a smoother look under clothing.

Leonisa Invisible High-Waisted Shapewear Butt Lifter

This full-body shaper offers impressive results and practical design features. The fabric is a blend of 78% polyamide and 22% elastane, making it exceptionally soft and durable compared to similar shapewear made of nylon. Although it requires hand-washing, it’s worth it for this level of support and comfort.

Not only does the SkinFuse technology smooth curves, but it also stays comfortable for all-day wear. It targets the hips, waist, and thighs while staying invisible under clothing. Plus, it functions as a butt lifter!

There’s an open gusset for convenience. Furthermore, the straps are removable, leaving the anti-slip lining to keep it in place. It’s available in sizes from extra small to 3 L.

Body Suits

These are one-piece shapewear garments that cover the entire torso, from the bust to the thighs. They provide comprehensive support and shaping for the abdomen, hips, and buttocks. Some full-body shapewear suits come with built-in bras.

SHAPERX Seamless Bodysuit

Try this seamless bodysuit if you want full control with a single garment. It has strong, fully bonded front panels to flatten the tummy. Meanwhile, the edge-bonded side panels provide further slimming without restricting or binding. Even the shorts lift the butt to enhance your silhouette.

There are adjustable straps for a personalized fit. Still, the powerful compression may feel tight on large busts. Nevertheless, the breathable fabric and bonded neckline and underarms guard against chafing. Choose either black or beige in sizes from small to 3XL.

SHAPERX Fajas Colombianas Body Shaper

If you prefer to wear your own bra, try a fajas bodysuit like this. The moisture-wicking, hypoallergenic Powernet fabric offers excellent compression and comfort for your abdomen, back, hips, thighs, and bottom. (Yes, it has the Brazilian butt lift design!)

Moreover, the adjustable front and shoulder hook design gives you the perfect fit to reduce swelling and improve your posture. The silicone lace at the legs prevents rolling, and the perineal area zipper offers easy bathroom access. It’s available in sizes from small to 3xl. The only downside is that it’s hand-wash only.

Besides these examples, there are many other postpartum shapewear choices to explore. It may take some experimentation to find what works best for you, but we’re confident you will be successful.

Remember, shapewear is naturally close-fitting and challenging to pull on and take off. Don’t try donning it if you’re sweaty or fresh out of the bath.

We suggest rolling up garments similar to what you would do with pantyhose. For camisoles, turn them inside out and step into them before pulling them up.

Also, when your doctor says it’s okay, slowly work your body back into shape.

Tips for Regaining Confidence and a Strong Body

Here are three simple tips for getting your postpartum body back into shape.

First, start walking as soon as your doctor approves it, gradually increasing your daily steps to burn calories and regain strength. Breastfeeding will also help you lose weight. But please pay attention to your diet because your baby will need the nutrients, and so will you.

Second, if it’s safe, practice kegels and pelvic tilts to boost blood flow and speed up recovery. Deep breathing and sucking in your tummy will help restore your abdominal muscles. Draw the abs together with your hands when you do crunches to align and retrain them. If you’re struggling, get medical assistance and see about physical therapy to achieve a full recovery.

Third, incorporate short bursts of cardio activity and strength training to rebuild muscle and boost your metabolism. Squats are surprisingly good at raising the heart rate.

Conclusion

It takes time to get your body back into shape. But you can rely on the best postpartum shapewear to help you stay supported and comfortable with your appearance. There are many different styles of garments to help you feel beautiful as you recover and start your journey as a new mother. We hope this information helps you find what works best for your needs, and we wish you all the best!