Why Bengkung belly binders are more effective than velcro belly bands postpartum

Postpartum belly binders are a popular way to support the body after giving birth. They're designed to offer gentle, adjustable compression and support. However, not all belly binders are created equal. Bengkung belly binders are a traditional Malay postpartum binding method that is considered to be more effective than velcro belly bands.

What is a Bengkung belly binder?

A Benkung belly binder is a long piece of cloth that is wrapped around the torso from below the ribcage to the hips. It is typically made of breathable strong fabric with some grip to it. Bengkung belly binding wraps are worn for 2-12 weeks postpartum, or longer in some cases, and are said to help the body heal and recover from childbirth.

How is a Bengkung belly binding wrap is different from a velcro belly band?

Velcro belly bands are a more modern type of postpartum belly binder. They are typically made from synthetic materials and have a velcro closure. Velcro belly bands are easier to put on and take off than Bengkung belly binders, but they do not provide the same level of support, and may not offer the same level of support to the pelvic floor. 

Why are Bengkung belly binders more effective?

Bengkung belly binding wraps are more effective than velcro belly bands for a number of reasons:

• They provide more support. Bengkung belly binders are wrapped tightly around the torso, which provides more support for the muscles and organs. 
• They offer gentle, adjustable compression. Many wearers find this adds a sense of comfort and support as their body recovers. 
• They help to improve posture. Bengkung belly binders can help to improve posture by supporting the spine and core muscles.
• They adjust to you as you heal. Because of the nature of using a long wrap instead of a pre-made band, the Bengkung Belly Binding wrap adjusts to the curves of tour body day by day as you heal. It always fits to your unique shape providing more support where you need it.  
• They may add comfort. Many wearers find the support helps them feel more comfortable, including around the lower back and core — though experiences vary and this isn't a substitute for medical care.
• Breathable – Bengkung Belly binding wraps are made of soft but strong breathable fabrics. They won’t create heat rashes like other Velcro polyester bands. 
• They hold up their shape – Bengkung Belly binding wraps hold their size and shape even after several years of use. Where as elastic Velcro bands loose their shape and elasticity over the time, which is less sustainable as you need to replace them over time. 
• Time-tested – generations of mothers have used the Bengkung Belly Binding wrap as part of their postpartum tradition.

Cons of using Bengkung Belly binding wrap:

One of the main cons women assume about using a Bengkung Belly Binding Wrap is that it may be time consuming to put it on and off, and to care for it.  

On some level that may be true: if Velcro bands take 5 seconds to put on, a Bengkung Belly Binding wrap may take 2 minutes to wrap it around. Taking off may take another 1.5 minute… but that isn’t a huge amount of time.

Washing it is also not difficult: simply put the wrap inside a laundry bag and wash in cold cycle.

Over the years of using a Bengkung Belly Binding wrap we found that the most time consuming part of using this wrap is folding it. After you machine wash it, and allow it to line dry…That is where job of folding it comes! But we have several videos on how to fold it in an effective way so that using and caring for your Bengkung Belly Binding wrap won’t be a burden for you. 

How to use a Bengkung belly binder:

If you are considering using a Bengkung belly binding wrap, it is important to learn how to use it correctly. Bengkung belly binding wraps should be wrapped tightly around the torso, but should not be too tight that they are uncomfortable or restrict breathing. It is also important to make sure that the binder is properly positioned so that it supports the muscles and organs. Here’s a link to our YouTube channel with detailed tutorials of how to wrap the Bengkung.

Conclusion

Bengkung belly binding wraps offer more traditional, adjustable support than velcro belly bands postpartum — they're breathable, sustainable, time-tested, and shaped to your body as you recover. If you're considering a postpartum belly binder, a Bengkung wrap is a comforting, natural option worth exploring.

Ready to try one? Explore our full range of Bengkung Belly Binding wraps, handmade with GOTS-certified organic cotton.