The Pregnancy Belly Support Solutions All Pregnant People Should Know About

As you enter your third trimester, it may seem like your growing bump is throwing everything off. You're in the home stretch—and stretch is the operative word. Picking up something you drop, getting out of bed, standing in line, or even sitting can strain your body.

What's a pregnant person to do? One option: Get some belly support. Read on to learn about who might need pregnancy belly support, how it helps, and the types of belly support available.

When To Use Pregnancy Belly Support

Hormonal changes, weight gain, and changes in the center of gravity during pregnancy can lead to spine curvature and pelvic tilting, resulting in low back and pelvic girdle pain. For most people, lower back pain begins in the second trimester around 22 weeks with 20% to 90% of pregnant people experiencing lower back pain and 16% to 25% experiencing pelvic girdle pain.

It's often people who have been pregnant before who have the most discomfort, especially in their pelvis and back, says Samir Hage, DO, an OB-GYN at Redlands Community Hospital in Redlands, California. He adds that those with jobs that involve near-constant standing or near-constant sitting benefit most from support.

People who routinely exercise—especially yoga and stretching—are less likely to have these late-pregnancy discomforts, says Dr. Hage. While exercise can help, it doesn't make you immune.

Belly Support Considerations

Some find belly supports incredibly helpful when carrying 10 to 30 additional pounds up front, while others are bothered by the constriction and heat, says Jay Goldberg, MD, of Beverly Hills. "From a medical standpoint, it provides back support and may help with circulation."

Dr. Hage says anyone can benefit from extra support but cautions people to avoid using any support that could restrict blood flow to the pelvis during exercise. "Support could be beneficial during exercise depending on the level of discomfort," he says. But the benefits and risks may vary depending on some factors, including body weight, type of exercise, and health history (such as underlying conditions or previous injuries). Talk to a health care provider before using pregnancy belly support products, especially during exercise.

Types of Pregnancy Belly Support

Looking for some extra support for your growing bump? You have options.

Pregnancy belly band

One of the more popular options is a wide, adjustable belly band worn under your belly. On top of providing back, hip, and abdomen support, it takes the pressure off the bladder. Research also shows that these types of bands can help alleviate pain and improve balance and mobility.

Belly bands can be a great first choice as they are lightweight and easy to clean. However, they are often made from fibers that do not adequately absorb moisture, which can make you hot and sweaty and even lead to skin irritation. It's best to use these (and all support belts) in moderation, maybe a few hours at a time.

Kinesiology tape

Yes, tape—or "k-tape" as it's often called. Resourceful parents all over use this souped-up version of old-fashioned white athletic tape to hoist their baby bumps under their clothes, giving hidden support and stability to muscles and joints.

This adhesive, elastic, and often colorful tape is stretchier than athletic tape and can stay put for a long time if used correctly. Strategically applied to the abdomen or back, it is especially helpful in relieving round ligament pain, that sharp jab in the lower abdomen or groin.

One study found that treating with Kinesio taping decreased low back pain significantly compared to placebo. The therapeutic effects started on the second day after beginning taping and lasted for two days after the tape was removed. Talk about lasting relief.

Pregnancy belt

If you need heavy-duty support (twins, anyone?), look to a pregnancy support belt with an abdominal support pad that tucks under your belly and an upper tummy strap. These can be found in many department stores, maternity stores, and online retailers.

These belts are typically wider on the back, which can be great for stability. However, some people find the extra fabric uncomfortable and may find it more difficult to remove when using the bathroom or changing clothes.

Other Ways to Support Your Pregnancy Belly

It's best to talk to a health care provider before using belly supports such as bands, belts, and tapes. Still, you don't have to suffer if your aching back or pelvis is starting to make you miserable. While these types of pregnancy belly supports can be greatly beneficial to some folks, they aren't for everyone.

If you want some extra belly support, but bands, belts, and tapes won't work for you, consider talking to your health care provider about the possible benefits of other options like:

• Exercise
• Chiropractic manipulation
• Pregnancy support pillows
• Acupuncture