Growing up Mexican, I am familiar with fajas.
I was introduced to this tool by Mom and my Tia-abuela (Great Aunt who I just call “Tia”). Looking back I have vague memories of my Tia giving me advice on how to care for my body during menses. I remember telling me how to rub my panza (tummy), how important it is that I wear socks all year long “para que nada se salle” to keep. Heat in my body and a high uterus and telling me to use heat packs to return the heat to myself. I realize she was speaking to prevent prolapse and low lying cervix’s.
During pregnancy there was even more advice.
During pregnancy, there were more advice.
A frequent one that came up often was if I was going to “fajar me”, she would ask/ tell me “si te vas a fajar par que te livias bein, no?” (You are going to use the faja so you recover correctly, right?)
I would respond, “I don’t know,” and then I would ask if it really even works. What is the truth to it?
She couldn’t really tell me facts, only stories of all the women who she knew who did and didn’t, and what their results were–especially the ones who didn’t do it. She’s expand on how not doing it let the cold air stay and cause problems in their bodies.
I just figured this was an old wives tale and chose not to fajar myself.
After my son was born, I experienced the natural side effects of birth. I didn’t like what I was feeling, the feeling of my intestinal organs moving inside me because of the vast open space left after my baby exited my body–and how unsupported my body felt because my abdominal wall was so weak from being stretched so much! I completely regretted not listening to my Tia and mom. I was being the stubborn woman that Iam and chose not to admit that I was wrong.
I did make a promise to myself that after my future children were born, I would “Fajarme.”
During the pregnancy of my second child, my husband bought me a faja after asking my mom and Tia for advice.
After my daughter was born my aunt and mom gave me a tummy massage using pomado de árnica and wrapped my tummy. I ate hot foods, drinks and made sure to keep my socks on. The difference was so noticeable! Like Whoa. I felt fully supported and I was standing tall. Good thing, since using a faja can help with posture.
I was sold. This amazing family tradition is definitely being passed down. And I am so happy to be the guardian and carrier of it.
Since learning this beautiful postpartum care technique, I have used it for myself with my 3rd and 4th children.
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