A belly bra is a maternity garment designed to provide support to the abdomen, breasts, and lower back of a woman in the third trimester of pregnancy. This garment has an elastic band in front and back, and wide straps for the shoulders. It is normally made of a stretchable material and looks much like a regular tank top. It can be worn under a maternity top or by itself.
This maternity support tank usually provides relief to a pregnant woman by helping to lift the weight of the fetus off her pelvis and lower abdominal area. This is accomplished via an elastic band in the front of the garment that is similar to a belly band or pregnancy support device. This, in turn, helps relieve pressure to the lower back. It can also support the additional weight of her breasts during this time.
Many doctors recommend that their pregnant patients wear a belly bra during exercise, such as yoga and walking. This support garment might also be effective in helping women get up from a sitting position. Many ladies report being able to rest more comfortably whenever they wear this top at night.
Most women begin to wear the belly bra during the third trimester, or last three months of pregnancy. Mothers who are carrying multiples may want to wear this pregnancy support top even earlier. The exact time frame can vary from one individual to the next, but often begins during the second trimester, or between three and six months gestation.
A belly bra largely resembles a tank top, with the exception that it is normally very tight fitting across the stomach area. One typically has wide straps and a plunging neckline. It may come in a variety of colors, the most common being white, black, and nude. It can therefore be used as a layering top under other maternity clothes or can even be worn by itself.
Pregnant women who are suffering from lower back or abdominal pain may want to try wearing the belly bra. This can be especially true for active ladies who spend a great deal of time on their feet. It is generally considered safe enough to wear on a daily basis, but those considering using one should check with a physician first. This garment can help ease the discomfort typically associated with the third trimester of pregnancy, so the mother-to-be can continue her normal activities as much as possible during this time.