Pregnancy brings joy, but it can also bring aches and discomfort, especially as your belly grows. Maternity support belts, commonly known as belly bands, offer gentle support that can ease common pregnancy pains like round ligament discomfort and lower back strain.
What Is a Maternity Support Belt?
A maternity support belt wraps around your lower back and abdomen to provide gentle compression and lift. According to Dr. April Dunmyre, orthopedist and assistant director at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, these belts support the uterus and can help lift the baby off the pelvis, reducing pressure and increasing comfort during the second and third trimesters.
Dr. Shannon Smith, board-certified OB/GYN, emphasizes that maternity bands are safe and an effective way to improve comfort during pregnancy.
Unlike pant extenders designed to hold up pants longer, maternity support belts are focused on relieving pain and supporting posture to help pregnant women stay active throughout the day.
How We Selected the Best Maternity Belly Bands
Choosing the right maternity belt can be challenging. Here’s how we identified the top options:
- We researched comfort, adjustability, materials, and effectiveness based on real-life testing and expert feedback.
- Consulted medical professionals including OB/GYNs and physical therapists to understand key features and benefits.
- Reviewed guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) about support belts during pregnancy.
- Gathered insights from mothers who have used belly bands through multiple pregnancies.
- Analyzed user reviews from What to Expect’s community forums focusing on comfort and pain relief.
Every maternity belt featured here offers:
Support: Helps alleviate round ligament pain, lower back strain, and pelvic pressure.
Comfort: Made from breathable, stretchy materials that move with your body.
Ease of Use: Designed for simple wear and removal—even in late pregnancy.
Top Maternity Support Belts to Try
Azmed Maternity Belly Band — Best for everyday relief, offering a snug, supportive fit with breathable fabric. Around $36.
Belly Bandit Upsie — Ideal for back pain, it provides firm support without restricting movement. Around $65.
The Serola Belt — Best for easing round ligament pain with targeted compression. Around $60.
Gabrialla Maternity Support Belt — Great for staying active, especially during workouts. Around $25.
FitSplint — Designed for running and high-impact activities with excellent support. Around $55.
Belevation Maternity Band — Best plus-size option offering both comfort and strength. Around $40.
Each of these belts has been tested and recommended based on comfort, durability, and effectiveness for pregnancy-related discomfort.
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