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!

Crack open the non-alcoholic champagne this Mama has finally reached 39 weeks! I am certain I have been pregnant forever, in my local village familiar faces and neighbours give me that “still?!?” look. And while I have been staring down the end of this pregnancy for awhile it just recently hit me that it’s actually going to happen and that there are things I need to do apart from waiting.

The most sensible of them being: pack my hospital bag. Now, I’m not planning to stay in the maternity ward for long - I’ll be coming home as soon as they’re satisfied we’ve ticked all the boxes (hopefully within 24 hours - or earlier would be great!) So my needs are pretty simple but I do have a swag of products which I’m NOT leaving home without, most of which will support me during labour as well as in the immediate hours postpartum.

Obviously everyone’s journey is unique and your hospital bag will reflect that, I view my hospital bag as an extension of my birth plan. What comfort measures are a priority for me in those 24 hours, what makes me feel safe, and confident? What do I need to begin to thrive?

My hospital bag, therefore, is divided into 3 top priorities (each of which have been heavily influenced by the experiences of my first birth and the learning that has taken place since).

1. Save my va-jay-jay
2. Save my nips
3. Save my sanity

So without further ado, let’s get into it - or as my son would say - Let’s go rock and roll!

Save My Vajayjay

My number one priority for this labour is an intact perineum. No stitches! So, of course the BodyICE Perineum Pad is the first thing I’m packing! Are you guys sick of me harping on about the brilliance of this heat/ice pack yet? Too bad - it’s the best and no birthing Mama should be without it. I’ll be using this cheeky lady in early labour as a warm compress, folded in a v and placed on my pubic bone. My birth plan is solidly geared towards a water birth, but the Perineum Pad will be an important back up in case I’m unable to deliver in the bath - still used as a warm compress and placed on my Perineum to protect the area, encouraging softness and offering some pain relief. Once bubs is in my arms (squuuueeeeeeee!) It’ll go straight in the freezer and I’ll place it back on the perineum cold to soothe swelling.

Next to go in is my trusty Perineal Irrigation Bottle. She’ll get filled with luke warm water to take the sting out of those first trips to the bathroom. She’ll also assist in keeping my perineum clean and dry - reducing any risk of infection and irritation.

• Technically not for saving my Vajayjay but my BodyICE Hip and Lower Back Heat/Ice Pack will be coming in with me. Hospitals can be a bit thingy with using kettles and microwaves (not all - but some - ask at your ante-natal visit!) but I need not worry, all she needs is hot or cold/ice water. The pack is designed to provide warm or cold compress - wait for it - hands free! Which is brilliant for labouring Mama’s with freedom of movement high on their list of birth preferences.

Save My Nips

A pair of seamless, soft cup fully flexible Nursing Camisoles and Nursing Bra. This one is pretty self explanatory. I choose Cantaloop nursing wear for the BBFB range. Namely because of the quality of the material and comfortability whilst wearing. Little one will be nursing frequently and I’ll need to be comfortable at all times.

Nipple Balm. My balm of choice is Sal Remedia Nipple Balm - handmade, natural and simple nourishment and hydration. Here’s the best bit about having a Summer baby is the opportunity to let the girls hang out! (apologies in advance to my maternity ward roomie!) Allowing the nipple to air dry, in the sun is even better, prior to applying any balms or fabrics/pads will go a long way in protecting your precious nips! While initial discomfort is normal Mama’s, put your foot down and say no to any painful cracking or bleeding - reach out to a trusted IBCLC Lactation Consultant to ensure there’s no underlying issues. Rule #1: Look after those nips!

Bamboo Re-Usable Breast Pads from Milk and Cookies by Jewels. Now it’s unlikely that my supply will burst forth in the first 24 hours, but these re-usable breast pads are oh so soft, they’ll provide an extra layer of comfort as well as catch any early leakage if I need it.

Save My Sanity

I respond really well to touch in times of stress and discomfort so the pure and simple Body Oil by Sal Remedia is not being left at home! A simple blend of Sweet Almond and Apricot Oil makes this perfect for massage in labour and every hour thereafter (demanding much!?) The exclusion of additional fragrances or oils means it’s completely safe to use for Mama.

Eco. Aroma Essential Lavender Oil. For calm and relaxation in Labour. Say no more! A drop or two on my Kayelle Aromatherapy Necklace will diffuse my favourite scent for as long as I need it. Find what makes you feel at home, safe, alone and peaceful and bring it will you.

Bad Ass Birth Affirmations by Angie Bee Holtz. Because laughter is what I live for, I fight stress and worry with humour and these affirmations are exactly what this foul-mouthed, goofy Mama needs. Equal parts of both focus and hilarity.

And that’s it! Of course the ol’ toothbrush will come along as well as my Maternity mattresse-pads, I mean pads. Oh and pants *note to self: pack pants. Stay tuned for what I’ll have waiting for me at home!

I hope you’ve found my checklist useful - especially if you’re finding yourself overwhelmed with a seemingly endless list of items to bring! Of course all items*** are available online here at Bouncing Back From Birth, don’t hesitate to shoot any questions about these products and their benefits in labour or postpartum in the comments, via email, social media or carrier pigeon - whatever you prefer Mama!

Now go forth and birth your babe like the glorious goddess you are - you’ve got this!!

Brooke x  

*** Except for these beauties

Bad Ass Birth Affirmations by Angie Bee Hotz

Aromatherapy Necklace by Kayelle

BodyICE Hip and Lower Back Pack by BodyICE Recovery

We're talking Post Partum Relaxation at The Hermosa Co. this fine Sunday!

Based in Torquay Victoria, The Hermosa Co. is a dedicated space for pregnancy and postpartum relaxation.

Postpartum packages aren't strictly limited to massage, The Hermosa Co. also offer bath soaks and - wait for it - a Restless Legs treatment!

FINALLY!!

At The Hermosa Co. postpartum massage is all about re-balancing the body after pregnancy and childbirth. It's like hitting reset. The benefits of postpartum massage include,  the regulation of hormones, promotion of lactation and relief of any muscular aches and pains, particularly in the neck and shoulders which is a god send, did someone say 'cluster-feeding!'

You are welcome to bring your new bundle with you and there is a waiting room available should you wish to feed your little one prior to your treatment.

Inspired by the journey of her clients owner Lydia Latta, crafted a luxury range of high quality postpartum and pregnancy spa products. Lydia has a passion for creating products which best support expecting mums and brand spanking new ones.

One of the most exciting things about The Hermosa Co. is the #Hermosabody Project.

A short n sweet one for you all, offering my top 3 Instagram accounts to get you pumped for birth.

Yes, you heard me. No, that is not a typo.

Get. Pumped. For. Birth.

There’s a lot of fear and anxiety associated with childbirth and I’ll be the first to admit that I was quietly terrified of labour. My own theories why include a) we perceive we have zero control over how it all goes down, b) people share their horror stories VERY freely and c) we’re diving deep deep into unknown territory.

But, it doesn’t have to be this way.

There are a large number of movements and groups championing bringing women’s strength and kick-assery (Is that a word? It is now!) front and centre. Personally I find nothing more empowering than scrolling through moments captured of women transitioning, pushing, breathing, digging deep deep into themselves and emerging triumphant with endless reserves of power and strength.

So without further ado, here they are.

Monet Nicole is a Colorado based birth photographer. And oh my goodness I dare you to view her images without your heart beating deep and swelling to the size of a melon. Vernix, and pulsating umbilical cords and fists and perfect first meetings.

Angela Gallo is a Melbourne based Doula and Birth Photographer, she has a talent for capturing some of the most raw and powerful moments of birth I've ever seen. 'Nuff said.

An absolutely stunning collection of images connecting women with nature, breastfeeding with confidence, joy and abandon. Created by photographer Sarah Murnane, you can register your interest in becoming a part of the project at australianbreastfeedingproject.com.au

Told you it was short and sweet.

You've got this Mama *fist pump*

Shout Out Sunday returns this week featuring Bianca from Hush a Bee, Bianca is a certified pediatric sleep consultant (read: sent by the angels themselves) helping families pull themselves out of exhaustion.

As a mum of one, soon to be 2 Bianca rejects the pressure on a parent to suck it up, she's been there she says,

"In the depths of severe sleep deprivation, where everything in your world feels like it is crashing down around you. It’s crap. And it’s also the reason I do what I do, because I never want to end up there again and I don’t believe any parent should feel like that is the norm."

Best of all the Sleep Sense online program is all about your family and what works best for you. You'll never be asked to leave your child to cry it out alone, or anything you don't feel comfortable with. 

A Hush-a-Bee Sleep Sense program tailored to your families needs can help with children aged 4 months to pre-school to address night-waking, cat-napping, bedtime battles (she writes at 9:45pm with her son still yelling out for her) and more.

And here's the best part - Bouncing Back From Birth and Hush-a-Bee have teamed up to bring you an awesome giveaway over on the Hush-a-Bee Facebook page to win a place on their Online Sleep Program valued at $200. This includes a sleep evaluation, 2-hour group consultation, customised sleep plan, access to the Hush-a-Bee Community and 2 weeks of follow-up support. To enter, you must be likers of both our pages (Bouncing Back From Birth and Hush-a-Bee) and tell us, in 25 words or less, what a full, uninterrupted night’s sleep would mean to you. Competition closes at 11:59pm ADST on Sunday, 29th of January 2017. *T&Cs Apply!

I might just enter myself!!