Pregnancy is a remarkable and transformative journey that brings a range of physical changes and challenges to expectant moms.
As the body adapts to accommodate the growing baby, many women experience discomfort, pain and strain in various areas including their lower back and abdomen.
And a very effective method to help alleviate this discomfort is the use of belly taping.
In this article, we will explore the art of taping a pregnant belly, provide insights and step-by-step instructions and tips on how to safely support the belly at this time.
How to tape a pregnant belly
Taping a pregnant belly can provide relief from round ligament pain, back pain, pelvic heaviness or undue pressure on the abdomen during pregnancy.
Here are the steps to help you tape your pregnant belly properly and safely.
Items you’ll need:
Before you start, make sure you have the following items:
- Kinesiology Tape: You will need specialized kinesiology tape, which is designed to provide support without restricting movement. Opt for ones specifically designed for sensitive skin and without latex.
- Scissors: For cutting the tape to the desired length.
- Clean, Dry Skin: Ensure the skin on the belly is clean and dry to help the tape adhere properly.
Steps:
- Cut the kinesiology tape into strips of the desired length. These strips are usually 12-18 inches long.
- Determine where you’re experiencing discomfort or needs support. Common areas may be lower back and the lower abdomen.
- Stand in a comfortable position, which might be slightly bent forward to ease tension in the back.
- Begin by anchoring one end of the tape without stretching it. Place it slightly above or below the area that needs support.
- Slowly peel off the backing of the tape while applying it to the skin, ensuring that you stretch it slightly as you go. This provides gentle support without being too tight.
- Continue applying the strips in a crisscross or diagonal pattern, with each strip overlapping the previous one. This creates a supportive network. Be careful not to stretch the tape too much, as excessive tension can be uncomfortable.
- After applying each strip, use your hand to gently rub the tape to ensure it adheres properly and lies flat on the skin.
- Move around to ensure that the tape allows for comfortable mobility. The tape should provide support without restricting movement or causing discomfort.
Removal:
To remove the tape, gently peel it off in the direction of hair growth to minimize discomfort. If there is any adhesive residue on the skin, you can use a bit of baby oil to help remove it.
Remember that every pregnant woman’s needs and comfort levels are different; that is why It is necessary to ensure that the tape is providing the desired level of support without causing any discomfort.
What are the tips to tape a pregnant belly?
- If you feel a persisting pain, discontinue right away and and talk to your doctor about it.
- Do not apply KT on an open wound, broken skin or varicose veins.
- Again, the tape must not be used if you are allergic to adhesives. So it’s important to first test on a small part of your skin to make sure it doesn’t cause any weird reaction.
- If you realize you have any allergies or skin sensitivities, then be mindful to choose a tape that is hypoallergenic or suitable for sensitive skin.
- This technique should not substitute medical advice or medical treatment. Consult your doctor before using the tape.
Is taping your pregnant belly safe?
Yes, taping a pregnant belly is generally known to be safe and effective. This treatment is the perfect alternative to interventions likes belly belts or stockings in a more comfortable way, and can be helpful in alleviating pelvic and round ligament pain during pregnancy.
The only common adverse issue is an allergic reaction to the adhesive that comes with the KT, and may cause symptoms like redness or itchiness under the tape. But this happens to only few women.
However, it’s recommended to try the tape on a small portion of the skin first to ensure there’s no allergic reaction. If such symptoms appear, opt for a different brand of the tape, or use a medical tape as a layer of protection under the kinesiology tape.
When done properly, technique should gently lift the skin surrounding the belly, enabling any extra fluid to drain, easing pressure on painful areas.
Yet, kindly note – While this is generally considered safe, each person is unique and might have different reactions or comfort levels as discussed initially. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new health practices during pregnancy.
When should I start taping my pregnant belly?
You can begin to tape your pregnant belly when you start to feel that you need extra support or when you feel uncomfortable due to the expansion of your belly.
A good time to start is often during the second trimester, which is around the fourth month of pregnancy. Note that belly taping is different from belly casting and should not confuse the two.
Belly casting usually happens around the 36-38 weeks of pregnancy, or during the 8th or 9th month, and aims to capture the size and shape of the belly at its largest.
For belly taping, you can commence whenever you feel the need and it’ll help in daily support and pain relief.
However, it’s always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any of this to ensure it’s safe for you and your baby.
What does taping a pregnant belly do? – the benefits
Some benefits of taping a pregnant belly include:
- Decreasing muscle fatigue
- Improving muscle facilitation
- Inhibiting muscle activation, which helps decrease activity in spasming or injured muscles
- Relieving back pains, pelvic girdle pains and round ligament pain
- Decreasing edema or swelling, by promoting lymphatic drainage
- Supporting painful joints, such as after a sprain
- Providing support to the baby bump and abdominal muscles.
- Improving blood flow
- Enhancing sensory feedback and serving as a reminder of body positioning
- Helpful in stabilizing the abdominal area, which can be useful during pregnancy exercises.
- Improved comfort: enhance comfort and mobility of a pregnant woman and make it easier for her to perform daily tasks and activities without pain or discomfort.
What is the best belly tape for pregnancy?
The choice of belly tape for pregnancy can vary based on individual preferences, skin sensitivity, and the specific needs of the pregnant woman.
However, here are a few popular and highly regarded options for belly tape during pregnancy. These brand also have sizes for plus-sized women
- KT Tape
- Rocktape
- Maternity support belts
- Belly Bandit
- Gabrialla
- Pregnancy Spider Tape
- Back & Bump Comfort Pregnancy Tape
- Mama Belly Tape for Pregnancy Support
Conclusion
In conclusion, learning how to tape a pregnant belly can be a valuable skill for both expectant mothers and their caregivers.
When done with care, you can get the just the relief and comfort you need, and even improve your mobility at this precious time.
The choice of tape, proper technique, and regular monitoring of the skin are vital to ensure comfort and minimize any risks.
Ultimately, taping a pregnant belly can be a useful tool for enhancing the comfort and well-being of expectant mothers, but it should always be employed with knowledge, care, and an emphasis on safety, not neglecting your healthcare professional too.
By following best practices and seeking professional guidance, this technique can provide valuable support on the remarkable journey of pregnancy.
References: https://pinnaclewt.com/pros-and-cons-of-belly-tape-and-maternity-support-braces-during-pregnancy/
