What Are Belly Bands?

Every pregnant woman has experienced that "in-between" phase both before and after having a baby. Your regular pants don't fit, but the maternity pants are still too big. Let the belly band be your answer. This very stretchy, expandable band fits underneath your shirts but over your pants to give you many more clothes options throughout your entire pregnancy.

Function

A belly band can help you to wear your regular size pants longer. It is worn around the top of the pants and tightly covers the top of the pants allowing you to keep them unzipped. It can also cover up the unattractive elastic bands on maternity pants. A belly band can look like a long tank top under a shirt that might be slightly too short to wear during pregnancy. The belly band helps make up some of the difference between the top of the pants and the bottom of the shirt.

Sizes and Styles

Belly bands come in a variety of sizes to accommodate every woman through her entire pregnancy. They come in sizes 0-4, 6-12, 14-18, and 18-24. Belly bands also come in a variety of colors and patterns to look more stylish and less like a pregnancy accessory.

Considerations

Belly bands can also help for the post-birth transition. While you are trying to get back into your pre-pregnancy clothes, the belly band can help you flatten out a little more while you are at that in-between stage.

Misconceptions

The belly band will not work for every pregnant woman. Some women's body types are more conducive, even before pregnancy, for using the belly band. Some women have to constantly keep pulling the belly band up or having to readjust it. It may be wise to only purchase one belly band before buying one in every color to be sure they will work for you.

Cost

Belly bands are relatively inexpensive. They run anywhere from $15 to $30 depending on the store you purchase them in, the style, and solid colors versus patterns. The cost is another reason it's important to be sure belly bands are your answer because they can add up.

Resources

• A belly band example.