Not long ago, I wrote about my naivete in assuming I’d bounce back to pre-pregnancy size as soon as I’d expelled the human bowling ball from my middle. When reality sunk in, I sure could have used a nifty little invention called isABelt that’s been touted on several parenting Web sites, including People’s celebrity baby blog.

It’s a clear, thin plastic strip that has none of the bulk of ordinary belts yet keeps your pants where they should be and makes for a streamlined look under snug-fitting tops. Use it to hold up your pants post-partum -- or use it to keep them up in the first trimester when you’re too small for maternity wear but too bloated to fit comfortably in your regular jeans. Just pop the top button and use isABelt to cinch in your pants.

I found it a little confusing to adjust at first, but once I got the hang of it, we got along just fine.

Whoever invented low-rise jeans clearly had not borne children, but, amazingly, I’m still able to wear my favorite low-riders with the help of my trusty isABelt.

There’s nothing cute about it – in fact my brother’s girlfriend caught sight of it and looked at me quizzically: “Is that a bra strap around your waist?” – but if cute is what you want, try IsABelt Jr. on your little girl. She’ll love the whimsical cupcake, hearts and cherries patterns, and her pants too will stay right where you want them to.

Find mom’s version for $16.95 (the girls’ version costs $2 more) at www.isABelt.com.

Bonnie, a former featured blogger on TriangleMom2Mom, also reviews CDs and products.