Belly Wrapping

Belly wrapping (sometimes referred to as "belly binding") is the traditional practice of snugly wrapping the body from the lower hips to the top of the rib cage during the postpartum days, weeks and months. This beautiful art has been practiced in cultures across the globe and can be a wonderful tool for self-care, encouraging newly postpartum parents to slow down and encourage their bodies to heal. 

The benefits and basics of Belly Wrapping:
  • It can help prevent diastasis recti, a post-birth condition where the abdominal muscles separate.
  • Each wrap is completely customizable to ensure the best fit for every body at every stage of postpartum healing. 
  • Better posture throughout the day and especially while feeding your newborn. 
  • Comfort. Some women describe their abdomen feeling 'empty' after birth and a wrap can offer a sense of comfort and security.
  • Connecting to your post-birth body. We experience so many physical changes during pregnancy and birth...taking a few minutes each day to apply your wrap can help you reconnect with your physical self.
  • When properly wrapped, your movement should not feel hindered, The wrap should be comfortably snug and gently remind you that your body is in a state of healing and should be treated with care. 

Step 1: Set up

First, a beautiful, locally handmade wrap is looped around the hips as a starting point. This style of wrapping allows us to fit your wrap to your individual postpartum body... and allows for flexibility in sizing as your body changes after your baby's birth.

Step 2: Wrapping

The abdomen is lovingly wrapped from the lower hips to the top of the rib cage. Each loop of the fabric provides stability and comfort.

Step 3: Tying off

Finally, the wrap is tied off. Women usually wear their wraps under their clothes (some opt for a tank top or light layer underneath), from 2 to 20 hours a day - whatever feels comfortable to them. Your doula will guide you on how many weeks to wear your wrap, based on individual needs.

Our Packages

Handmade Wrap + Guided Instruction: $85 
One of our doulas will come to your home with a beautiful unbleached muslin wrap, which is made right here in Athens by an AthensBorn mom. We'll show you how to get started and you'll be able to wrap yourself before we leave! We can also show a partner how to help, if they'd like. We'll help you learn to use your wrap with love and compassion and develop a personalized plan for how often and how long to wear it.

*Current AthensBorn Clients: $65  
Guided Instruction takes place at an existing postpartum visit.

Guided Instruction Only: $50 (no wrap included)
If you decide you'd like to make your own wrap, or purchase one from another vendor, we will happily come to your home and do a full wrapping session with your wrap.  This will include teaching you how to self-wrap and teaching your partner how to partner wrap.

*Current AthensBorn Clients: $30  
Guided Instruction takes place at an existing postpartum visit.

FAQs

When should I start wrapping?
As soon as your health care provider gives you the ok! Many people prefer to start wrapping around 1 week postpartum, though some begin a little sooner and some wait anywhere up to 3 weeks.

What's up with these wraps and where do they come from?
AthensBorn wraps are lovingly handmade from unbleached muslin by local makers. Print designs are available upon request, pricing will depend on chosen fabric.