Much like a woman clasping her hands under her abdomen, the Prenatal Cradle® supports the weight of pregnancy, yet does not restrict mother or child. By freeing the arms and promoting proper circulation to the lower extremities, the undergarment also allows many mothers to remain active through the third trimester. During pregnancy, vulvar varicosities can occur for many reasons. Increased weight of the enlarged uterus sometimes creates pressure on veins in the pelvic area and interferes with the flow of blood returning from the legs. Naturally higher levels of estrogen promote growth, while increased progesterone tends to relax the smooth muscles of the vein walls. The relaxed veins can become distended and "pop out" as vulvar varicosities. Wearing the supporter before rising in the morning, helps prevent excessive swelling of the vulvar veins. Doctor recommended Patented design supports back and abdomen Gently improves posture while easing many discomforts May be worn with regular lingerie Based on the most natural stance of a woman with child Completely adjustable, even through clothing Machine washable, flannel-backed Practical - no need to remove for toileting Medical tax credit or insurance claim may be applied Strong and effective Available in regular and tall sizes The Prenatal Cradle also offers Orthotic Support for patients who have pendulous abdomens and symptoms of: Back pain Abdominal straining Painful hip separation Painful pubic symphysis Lordosis Sciatica Vulvar Varicosities (also used post sclerotherapy) Lympedema Perineal edema Incontinence External prolapsed bladder or uterus Size Chart for the Prenatal Cradle Plus Size Pant Size (pre-pregnancy) Weight (current) Extra Petite 0 - 3 90 - 125 Petite 3 - 6 125 - 145 Small 7 - 10 145 - 175 Medium 10 - 14 175 - 200 Med/Large 14 - 18 200 - 250 Large 18 - 24 250 - 300 Extra Large 24 & up 300 - 350 Tall/Small 10 - 14 145 - 200 Tall/Med 14 - 18 200 - 250 Tall/Small and Tall/Medium sizes are designed for mothers 5'10" or taller PC-PCPlus-XP 714412000168 PC-PCPlus-PET 714412000175 PC-PCPlus-SM 714412000182 PC-PCPlus-MED 714412000199 PC-PCPlus-ML 714412000205 PC-PCPlus-LG 714412000212 PC-PCPlus-XL 714412000229 PC-PCPlus-SM/T 714412000236 PC-PCPlus-M/T 714412000243