Have you heard of postpartum compression leggings? They can be a real game changer when you’re trying to feel (and look) a little more like you did pre-baby. Plus, they’re super comfy!
And here’s the secret you should know: while most postpartum compression garments do more harm than good, postpartum compression leggings are the option that actually WORK.
Stick with me, and I’ll tell you why. A lot of the items we see advertised for postpartum compression actually put extra pressure on your pelvis, increasing your risk of pelvic complications such as prolapse.
And as someone who’s had prolapse and surgery to repair it, I can promise you–you want to keep the pressure off your pelvis!
Postpartum Compression Leggings Quick Picks
1. Best Compression – BaoBei Sculpt & Recovery Postpartum Leggings
2. Best for C-Section Moms – Ingrid & Isabel Active Postpartum Compression Leggings
3. Best Plus Size – Louisa Maternity & Postpartum Legging
4. Best Shapewear + Support – Belly Bandit Mother Tucker Postpartum Compression Leggings
5. Most Economical – Seraphine Shaping Leggings
I review ALL my pelvic health content with qualified physical therapists, and through them, I’ve learned which compression garments work and which ones shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near your belly.
Some of our absolute favorite options of ones that WORK are postpartum compression leggings. Unlike a belly band, which can push everything in your body down and into your pelvic floor, a good pair of postpartum leggings with gentle compression in the waistband can go a long way toward holding those abdominal muscles together, supporting your low back, and providing the lift you need to support your pelvis.
In this article, I’m sharing my absolute favorite postpartum compression leggings to help your body heal.
This site contains affiliate links, meaning that we earn a small commission for purchases made through our site. We only recommend products we personally use, love, or have thoroughly vetted.
Best Postpartum Compression Leggings
Let me be clear about one thing, though–not all leggings are created equal! It’s easy to find comfortable pants with a high waist to add to your new mom wardrobe, but if you’re looking for the best leggings to provide compression and support to your changing body, look no further.
Why trust us?
Katy Huie Harrison, PhD, is a mom of two who has had pelvic prolapse and had to have surgery to repair it. Given her personal experience with pelvic floor disorder, Katy reviews ALL her pelvic health content with qualified physical therapists.
Merci Ortenzi Treaster, PT, DPT, from The Pelvis Pro has weighed in with her expertise.
1. Best Compression – BaoBei Sculpt & Recovery Postpartum Leggings
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Product Features
- XS-XL
- 26″ inseam
- Sizing up recommended, especially if you’re early postpartum
- Moderate / maximum support
- Supports diastasis recti, hernia, and symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD)
- Gentle wash, line dry
These leggings are seriously the best out there! Not only are they super comfy and soft, but they also provide an amazing amount of support for your post-baby core and pelvic floor. Seriously, they’re a game-changer.
And let’s not forget about the little details–like the pockets (yes, pockets!) that are perfect for holding your phone or keys while you’re on the go. Plus, they’re made with moisture-wicking material, so you can stay cool and dry during even the sweatiest of workouts (and by “workout” I mean wrangling the car seat back into the car).
Pros
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Supports abdomen, lower back, pelvis, and legs
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Specifically engineered by a physical therapist to help you recover from pregnancy
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Extra high waist allows you to breastfeed without exposing your tummy
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Lightweight, moisture wicking fabric
Cons
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Need to check with your health care provider before using if you’ve had a surgery or c-section
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Line dry
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Hard to pull over legs in early postpartum days.
2. Best for C-Section Moms – Ingrid & Isabel Active Postpartum Compression Leggings
Product Features
- XS-XL
- Fit true to size
- Medium support
- Hand-wash only
- Extra-low belly panel seam for C-section recovery
Made with soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric, these leggings are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re snuggling at home with your baby, running errands, or getting back into postpartum fitness. They provide gentle compression for your core and legs, while the high waistband offers support and coverage for your post-baby belly.
Pros
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Extra low belly panel seam is perfect for C-section moms
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Great for working out
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High quality fabric won’t slip or ride up
Cons
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Hand wash only
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Somewhat pricey
3. Best Plus Size – Louisa Maternity & Postpartum Legging
Product Features
- S-1X
- 26-28″ inseam depending on size
- True to size
- Machine wash cold, gentle cycle. Tumble dry low
These premium leggings are engineered to give gentle support both during pregnancy and during postpartum. While they don’t have as much compression as the other leggings listed here, you can fold them down for increased support or keep them up for extra coverage during nursing. Plus, there are pockets!
Pros
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High waist panel reaches to underbust for nursing coverage
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Pocket style is deep enough for cell phone and keys
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Better size range than other brands
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Super comfy
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Machine wash and dry
Cons
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Extra-long inseam may not work for shorter moms
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Lighter compression than other brands listed here
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Somewhat pricey
4. Best Shapewear + Support – Belly Bandit Mother Tucker Postpartum Compression Leggings
Product Features
- XS-XL
- Sizing up recommended if you plan to wear these immediately postpartum
- Postpartum core support
- Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry
The whole Mother Tucker line from Belly Bandit rocks the postpartum compression game–they’re seriously amazing when it comes to postpartum support. These leggings provide fantastic compression support for your core and legs and are great for c-section recovery.
The fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking, so you can stay cool and comfortable all day long.
Pros
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Smooths and shapes tummy, tush, and thighs
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Ultra-high waistband gives complete coverate for discreet nursing
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Seamless, breathable knit
Cons
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Lay flat to dry
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Some moms experienced waistband rolling down
5. Most Economical – Seraphine Shaping Leggings
Product Features
- S-L
- Choose your pre-pregnancy size
- Medium compression optimized for postpartum
- Spot clean only
These leggings provide fantastic support for your core and legs without compromising on comfort. And the best part? They’re perfect for any outfit and occasion, whether you’re running errands or out for a night on the town.
Pros
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High waisted fit for nursing coverage
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Soft, breathable fabric
Cons
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Spot wash only – not great for baby messes and stains
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Limited size range
Are Compression Leggings Good for Postpartum?
We love the benefits of wearing good compression leggings after giving birth, and for many months to follow.
There are 3 main reasons we suggest compression leggings in the days and weeks after baby is born:
- Promotes healing: Compression leggings can improve circulation and, thus, help reduce swelling and inflammation, which promotes healing.
- Provides support: Pregnancy takes a toll on the abdominal muscles and pelvic floor muscles. Compression leggings can provide the abdominal support new moms need to help these areas heal.
- Improved comfort: Thanks to their soft, stretchy fabric, compression leggings are more comfortable than traditional postpartum garments, such as girdles or binders. Plus, by the very nature of being pulled up from below your abdomen, they work against gravity to help lift while also gently pulling abdominal muscles back together.
And these benefits don’t end once your body has gone through basic recovery. I love wearing postpartum leggings for the abdominal support even in the years after baby is born, especially while babywearing and exercising.
How Soon After Birth Can You Wear Compression Leggings?
I reached out to my favorite pelvic health expert, Merci Ortenzi Treaster, PT, DPT, from The Pelvis Pro, to ask her this question, and here’s what she had to say:
“I always say 1-2 weeks of your maternity leggings or belly band and then go to the compression leggings. You can technically move towards them sooner, but for most people, they don’t fit quite yet.”
Merci Treaster, PT, DPT
Remember, your body still has a lot of work to do after baby is born, and it won’t immediately be significantly smaller. This is very normal.
As swelling decreases, your uterus contracts back down to a smaller size, and general healing occurs, you’ll be able to more comfortably fit into your postpartum leggings.
What to Look for When Shopping for Postpartum Compression Leggings
When shopping for postpartum compression leggings, here are the biggest things to look for:
- Gentle compression and support. Gentle lifting compression helps promote healing and comfort after childbirth and can even help support diastasis recti.
- Comfort. You’ll likely be spending a lot of time in your postpartum leggings, so it’s important to find a pair that is both comfortable and breathable.
- Fabric: Fabrics like nylon, spandex, and polyester provide a comfortable, supportive fit that gently hugs your curves without feeling too tight or restrictive. Look for leggings made with soft, stretchy fabrics that are gentle on your skin, and consider features like moisture-wicking and breathability to ensure that you stay cool and comfortable all day long.
- Ease: With a new baby in tow, keep it easy by choosing leggings that’re machine washable. Pay attention to washing instructions. Many good leggings will say to avoid fabric softener and dryer sheets.
By keeping these factors in mind when shopping for postpartum compression leggings, you can find a pair that provides the support, comfort, and functionality that you need as a new mom!
