belly binder question

my surgery is in 3 weeks today and im just wondering, when removing the binder to shower or any thing else dont it hurt? it seems like it would be uncomfortable because it bindes you and the movement of it comming off will jar your belly and hurt, so I guess my question is does it hurt to take it off ??? thanks for your replys.

Hi angeleyez40,

I'm wearing mine right now! When I take it off it doesn't hurt but I can feel things shift a little inside. Just take it off slowly to reduce the movement. It has been very helpful to me as I move around more each day.

thank you for your reply. do all use the belly bindres, or should I ask for it ??

My doctor didn't give me one but I bought mine in the Hystersisters Store with the Swelly Belly. They are both nice reminders to other people that you are still healing as well as helping you feel better.

You could ask your doctor if she/he will give you during your pre-op appointment. Good luck!

My doctor sent me home with one, but it was really uncomfortable. I got the hystersister one - much nicer.

I use mine when I am going to be walking around or standing. Basically, anytime I'm out and want support on my midsection because it currently lacks it's own. At home, I am more comfortable sitting w/o the binder. If I were to do a lot of activity here, I'd put it on. I use my at home time for resting, so I tend to not wear it.

I think it is up to each sister and her comfort. It is nice to have as an option and the hospital will send it home with you if you ask!

Good luck!

I alternate between a pair of support shorts and an abdominal support.

I started with the shorts, they are like a pair of spanx but not overly tight. I've never worn them for slimming under clothes because they weren't tight enough, but they have been perfect for my belly post-op. I find them very comfortable for sleeping and sitting, supportive but not restrictive. However they need washing every second day or so, I wish I had another pair.

Since I started standing/walking around more, I have been wearing an abdominal binder, it's more supportive for standing and walking (great for walking, I don't feel like I am walking like a duck!), but as other posters have mentioned, not so comfortable for sitting for long periods. I put the binder on when standing for a while, or when I am going for a walk.

This combo is working well for me.

To answer the original question - standing without any support (eg when showering) isn't painful, but starts to get a bit uncomfortable when I have been standing for a while.

angeleyez40-
With the help of this site I pretty much knew what I needed to ask for,and my Dr.made sure I was able to get them.
1st.the gauze panties,however,I am a big girl and if I squeezed them on the would've become a part of my anatomy.
2nd-The belly binder-I asked for this in the hospital,they only had medium so my Dr.suggested connecting two mediums.
I loved it when I used it.at first I wore it 24 hours a day and only took it off for showers,and then I only wore it when i laid down or drove,and then only when I drove.I am 8 weeks now and no longer wear it all.I asked my Dr. how many women ask for them and he said in 5 years I was the 4th to ask.It is a shame that many may not be aware that they are a valuable comfort tool after abdominal surgery.