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Postpartum care can include you, too.
So much of the early postpartum period revolves around the baby. Feeding them. Holding them. Learning them. Figuring out what on earth they are trying to communicate at 2 a.m. Belly binding creates a small pocket of self-care time centered around the person who gave birth. The traditional Benkung method uses a long piece of fabric wrapped gradually around the torso, creating an overlapping structure that provides gentle, structured support through the hips, abdomen, and torso. Some people love this feeling of being held and supported as their body adjusts after pregnancy and birth. And sometimes, it simply feels really good to have someone come to your home and take care of you for a little while. |
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What exactly is belly binding?
Belly binding is a traditional postpartum practice found in different forms across many cultures. The Bengkung style I offer uses a long length of fabric wrapped around the torso in overlapping sections, creating support that can be adjusted to your comfort.
Unlike a compression garment, the binding is made of muslin and will not stretch or fold on itself. It should feel supportive and secure, never painful or restrictive.
I was trained in postpartum belly binding through Sacred Pregnancy in 2015 and have offered binding as part of my postpartum work ever since.
Belly binding is a traditional postpartum practice found in different forms across many cultures. The Bengkung style I offer uses a long length of fabric wrapped around the torso in overlapping sections, creating support that can be adjusted to your comfort.
Unlike a compression garment, the binding is made of muslin and will not stretch or fold on itself. It should feel supportive and secure, never painful or restrictive.
I was trained in postpartum belly binding through Sacred Pregnancy in 2015 and have offered binding as part of my postpartum work ever since.
Supportive. Adjustable. Centered on your comfort.
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What an appointment looks like.
In your home, on your time. Exactly as you are. I come to you, because packing yourself and a newborn into the car for something intended to support your postpartum recovery feels a little counterproductive. We'll talk about how you're feeling, what you're hoping to get from binding, and anything about your birth or recovery that may affect whether binding is appropriate for you. I'll apply your binding, show you how it should feel, and teach you how to remove it. The service package offered includes your own binding cloth and instruction; we'll also go over how to recreate the bind yourself or with the help of a partner. Is it for me?
Every postpartum journey is different, so is your body. Belly binding isn't a requirement for postpartum recovery, and it isn't the right choice for every person or every stage of healing. We'll talk before your appointment about your birth, how your recovery is going, and whether there are any reasons you should check with your medical provider before being bound. Binding should never interfere with breathing, increase pain, or substitute for medical or pelvic-floor care when those are needed. |
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THE PRACTICAL STUFF
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When can I start binding after birth?
Binding can sometimes begin as early as 2-3 days postpartum, depending on your birth and how your recovery is going.
Can I do this after a cesarean birth?
Yes. After a cesarean birth, we recommend allowing your incision time to heal before beginning binding.
How long do I wear the bind?
How long and how often you wear your bind depends on your comfort and recovery. We'll talk through what makes sense for you during your appointment.
Can I learn to bind myself?
During your in-home session we will practice the wrap together so you can become comfortable with the method as well as how it should look and (more importantly) feel.
Do you provide the binding cloth?
Yes. You will be provided with a new muslin binding cloth between 13 and 15 yards in length.
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© Birth Matters NW Birth and Postpartum Services 2026
Serving North King County, South Snohomish County and the Eastside.