One of the rites of passage for all new mothers is witnessing the way their bodies are put to to the test during pregnancy. They are pushed and pulled, stretched and strained in ways that we never knew were possible. A few lucky moms are able to bounce right back into their pre-pregnancy shape after giving birth. Age, genetics, and a variety of circumstances contribute to how quickly a woman can recover postpartum. But regardless of whether all the conditions are right for you to regain your shape or you have challenges, there are a few things that can help you along.

Obviously the easiest thing you can do to regain your pre-pregnancy shape is to maintain a level of fitness throughout your pregnancy.There are restrictions, of course; and your doctor will be able to work with you on a fitness program that will keep you looking and feeling your best before and after you give birth. There are lots of gentle but effective exercise classes geared specifically to pregnany women including yoga, pilates, and water aerobics.

Another important factor is diet. Pregnant moms need to eat and drink more water than usual to keep up with their developing babies’ needs. But you can eat more and still make it healthy. Postpartum the same rule applies. If you’re breastfeeding your body needs the extra calories and hydration; but nutritionally there’s a big difference between 500 calories worth of fresh fruits and 500 calories worth of donuts!

After you have your baby, your OB/GYN will advise you to hold off resuming your pre-pregnancy workout routine for a few weeks. But you can use products like UpSpring Baby’s Shrinkx Hips–a belt that takes advantage of the hormone Relaxin which stays in your body up to eight weeks after you deliver a baby. The muscles and ligaments can be re-shaped back to their original measurements by wearing the belt each day under your clothing. Doctors, nurses, and a panel of moms agree that it works. In fact, check out the feedback from satisfied moms on Babies R’Us:

“With my first two babies, I wore a belt around my hips to get them to shrink back after delivery. But, it was so uncomfortable and bulky. Shrinkx is perfect. It is easy to hide and very comfortable. And, my hips are as small if not smaller than they were before I even had kids. I love this product and will tell all my friends about it. You MUST HAVE this. It is the only solution to getting slim hips again.”

“I have been wearing the Shrinkxs for three weeks. I am already able to fit in my old jeans. Highly recommend it!”

“After having multiple c-section, I needed something to hold my stomach in and help me get back to my pre-pregnancy body. The belt did both! I was able to fit into my jeans 3 months after having a baby. Now 6 months later I am still amazed at how my pants feel less tight around my waist. The belt has helped me look great again after 4 kids. Thanks.”

Do you have a story about how Shrinkx Hips has helped you regain your shape after giving birth? Leave us a comment and tell us about it!