Chapter V: Pregnancy Years
It is very important that every woman, with the exception of the very young athletic girl, wear good support during and after pregnancy. So-called maternity adjustable belts are of little value. They do have garters to hold up the wearers' hose. The over the waist style girdle or "split hip" made of rubber (not lycra) will give the lift needed and be sustained by the torso. The support rendered will eliminate backaches, and keep the skin of the abdomen from over-stretching.
This garment does not need adjusting. Begin wearing it sometime between the 4th and 5th month at the latest. It serves additional support when pulling it on before leaving the bed while on your back. Always get the model with a side zipper to avoid strain, and to the easy measure of your current waistline. Wear the garment for the duration especially if you are on your feet a great deal. It is important to check the thigh/derriere area which is generally smaller in proportion to the waist measure; but for those who are hip heavy it is most important that the legs and hip of the girdle are large enough.
If the obstetrician recommends additional support, then an inner belt is available. (SEE HOW TO MEASURE FOR STRETCH PANTY AND GIRDLES) It is essential to wear a 3/4 or longline cotton bra with either of the styles. Never wear a short bra with a high-waist (girdle or panty.) Extenders may be added whether the bra has elastic in back or not; depending on your growth.
As long as it is possible, wear a short cotton bra for sleeping in. It will support the weighted breasts and help prevent stretched tissue when breasts have returned to normal. The breasts will be firmer and prettier in color. Make certain at all times that the cup size is large enough to envelope each breast. There should never be any friction or constriction of breasts. I've had customers change a few sizes in bra and cup the last 5 months, others only one size. The more accurate the fit during this period, the less chance there is of sagging breasts later.
After birth I recommend a high-waist-fitted girdle with front and back panels of fabric, and an accurately fitted longline fabric bra. Whether you nurse the baby or not, a good supporting all cotton bra should be worn (for sleeping the short cotton ) until the child is nine months to a year-and-a-half depending on how long the infant is breast fed. This will help breasts recede without stretch marks. I've had occasion to recommend this to girls after their 3rd or 4th child; resulting in firmer-tissued breasts than they came thru with after their firstborn. Its truly amazing what an accurately fitted all cotton bra can do.
It is very important as the body goes back to its former size, to have the girdle and bra taken in wherever and whenever needed. This is also true when you lose weight at any time of your life. If foundations don't fit, they are injurious. In addition as weight goes down the firm fitting bra and girdle will help to keep skin from hanging and flesh from sagging.
If you enjoy good health, having children, doesn't make for stretched flabby bodies. Proper exercises aud well fitted girdles and bras perform miracles, aud a "YOUTHFUL FIGURE IS FOREVER".
Note: Chapters six and seven, on brassieres, omitted. - Virginian
Continue to
Chapter VIII: How To Measure Yourself For Girdles
Page designed and maintained by 
Last updated May 29, 1997