If you’ve been following the Bouncing Back From Birth journey for a while you’ll know how much I love the BodyICE range. And not just because it was created by a champion Lydia Lassila, no really, she’s an actual gold medalist Olympic champion *BOO YA!* For those of you who are new here, let me bring you up to speed.

Like what, you ask?

feeling sharp pains in your pelvis or pubic bone? Rocking a waddle? Calm the pains by warming your BodyICE Perineum Strip and folding it in a ‘V’. Place inside your underwear on your pubic bone. So discreet, much warm, very Aaaaah that’s better!

During the second stage of labour warm your strip and gently place directly on the perineum. Warmth encourages your Perineum to do its stretchy work and (hopefully!) remain intact.

Time to change it up and pop your strip in the freezer. This is her time to shine and soothe your tenders.

C-section Mama’s can get in on the action too: use cool on top of your dressing to alleviate swelling

Use as above for PSD/PGP once your period returns, it’s bliss!

Tuck a frozen strip inside a headband at the base of your head -  better than a cold flannel by far and hands-free!

If any MacGuyvers out there think of more uses, let me know in the comments below. And as always Mama’s; stay confident. You’ve got this.

* For comprehensive directions for use please check out the product page! This list is not intended to be taken as or replace medical advice if you have any concerns about pain during pregnancy - go see your GP/OB/Midwife ya goose!

I get asked A LOT about our range of compression wear, and to be honest I’m really pleased that you do. For many Mama’s out there compression wear is a big investment and you want to be sure that you’re investing in a product that is going to serve you well.

There are quite a few choices out there when it comes to choosing a garment for your postpartum recovery it can be a little overwhelming, but for me, choosing brands to offer you was so bloody simple. I am really proud to stock the

SRC Health Recovery Leggings and

Solidea Postpartum Compression Shorts.

Which leads us to FAQ number one: What are the differences between the two.

To give you a really good idea of their differences I’m going to start with their similarities because they’re actually really important.

1 - TGA (Theraputic Goods Association) approved as a medical device - this means the product complies with strict regulations, is listed on the ARTG and supported by clinical data and evidence.

2. Designed to:
Repair abdominal separation (DRAM)
Relieve lower back and pelvic pain
Support C-Section recovery and;
Perineal Trauma

This is incredibly important particularly if you are tempted to purchase shape wear in an attempt to save some moolah. Mama, Let’s get clear shape wear is a garment which cinches one area and not others to achieve an altered silhouette. Shape wear was not designed to gently support your postpartum recovery or function as an effective tool to manage the above conditions.

3. Incredibly high quality and manufacture. This is primo stuff made to last.

And that’s where their similarities end. So here are the differences.

Fabric

Lets start with SRC, it’s fabric is designed to retain it’s shape and compression during use and after a significant number of washes. Comprised of three layers including a breathable knit fabric and power mesh lining.

Level of support and compression: Boss.

To the touch it feels like a firm lycra.

Now Solidea, the most notable feature of it’s fabric is the wave knit, it also features silver ion technology which prevents the build up of bacteria and odour for the life of the garment.

To the touch it feels like a strong ribbed stocking.

Price

SRC $199

Solidea $129

Both worth Every. Single. Penny. But hey, why not Afterpay it!?

Style

SRC Recovery Leggings are a full length legging, style your SRC Leggings with your favourite active-wear or comfy tee and head out of the house in comfort or stay at home boobin’ and binge watching Netflix!

Solidea Shorts are more like an undergarment, you would not be comfortable wearing this garment out of the house on its own but it is very suitable for wear as a second skin under almost anything, making it a fantastic choice for Mama’s who have an early return to work date or if you live in a warmer climate this one is for you (North West Aussie and Queensland Mama’s I’m looking at you!)

When can I size up / Purchase? 

You can start sizing up for SRC after 36-38 weeks. But ideally you'll wait a couple of days after birth - aiming for your first wear one week after birth. This allows you to gain accurate measurements as well as allow postpartum bleeding to calm down a bit. See the below images for sizing as well as indications for hip measurements: standing with feet together, and measurements to be taken by someone else. 

SRC SIZING

SOLIDEA SIZING 

Fitting Notes:

To fit you before you have your bub is impossible, (As we don’t know how big your bub is nor do we know how much fluid you are carrying), we strongly suggest that you wait to purchase until after delivery and on ordering.

When measuring Post-Delivery for your Solidea Recovery Shorts;

• It is imperative you stay within the chart above.
• You need to go by your Height & The weight you are on the day you weigh yourself Post Delivery.

Are they worth it? 

Yes. yes - YES! Your compression wear is made to last and made to support your postpartum journey. Through C-sections, Abdominal Separation and Perineal trauma - the LOT. I promise you won't regret the investment.  

I hope this has answered any questions or concerns you might have about our range of compression wear, be confident that both products are an excellent investment in your recovery. You can wear these garments as early as a few days after birth (I recommend waiting one week to allow postpartum bleeding and swelling to subside) and continue to wear them for as long as you feel comfortable and supported for current and future postpartum journeys.

You’ve Got This!