If you’re ready to make the switch to maternity underwear, it’s important to choose a style and size that is right for you. Most maternity underwear sits over the bump, under the bump, or right on the baby bump. Just like regular underwear, maternity undergarments come in various cuts and styles, from boy shorts to thongs. When searching for the perfect pair of maternity underwear, prioritize comfort to accommodate your changing body. To find the best maternity underwear, we considered comfort and versatility. We looked at various styles and size options, and considered different fabrics—particularly those that are breathable and stretchable—so the undergarments will last. Some pairs on our list are even suitable for postpartum recovery. Based on our reviews, these are the best maternity underwear on the market today. This three-pack comes in a wide range of colors or neutrals, and is a perfect entry point into the world of maternity underwear. The briefs are made from a cotton and spandex blend that reviewers say is super soft, lightweight, and stretchy. Price at time of publication: $20 Material: Cotton and spandex | Pairs Per Pack: Three | Style: Over or under the belly | Size Range: Small to X-Large Price at time of publication: $20 Material: Nylon, spandex, and cotton | Pairs Per Pack: One | Style: Over the belly | Size Range: 0 to 26 Reviewers note these are also a great style option for postpartum wear and for those with a C-section scar since the waistband is just low enough that it won’t bother your healing skin. Price at time of publication: $15 Material: Bamboo, nylon, spandex | Pairs Per Pack: Two | Style: Under the belly | Size Range: Small to XXX-Large A boy short style provides extra coverage in the hips and bum and will stretch to fit a changing body. While two colors are available, each three-pack only has one color, so you can’t vary colors. Price at time of publication: $36 Material: Nylon and spandex | Pairs Per Pack: Three | Style: Under the belly | Size Range: Small to XXX-Large Material: Bamboo, cotton, or nylon/spandex mix | Pairs Per Pack: Three | Style: Over or under the belly (depending on the bundle created) | Size Range: Small to XXX-Large Price at time of publication: $8 Material: Cotton and spandex | Pairs Per Pack: One | Style: Under the belly | Size Range: Small to X-Large Lace panels add an extra flair of style, while the striped elastic waistband is sporty and practical. Sizing ranges from XS through 1X, so you can find the postpartum size that works for you. Price at time of publication: $32 Material: Polyester, spandex, and rayon | Pairs Per Pack: One | Style: Not Applicable | Size Range: X-Small to 1X Price at time of publication: $38 Material: Modal, nylon, elastane | Pairs Per Pack: One | Style: Over the belly | Size Range: Small to X-Large Material: Cotton and spandex | Pairs Per Pack: One | Style: Under the belly | Size Range: X-Small to XX-Large Price at time of publication: $18 Material: Cotton and spandex | Pairs Per Pack: Three or Six | Style: Under the belly | Size Range: Small to XX-Large
Over the belly: This type of underwear, as the name would suggest, has a stretchy panel that covers and supports your bump. Some can have built-in, light compression, or just a breathable panel.Under the belly: Designed to rest around your hips and underneath your bump, this type of maternity underwear may be ideal during warmer months or underneath fitted clothing.
Beyond belly coverage, maternity underwear is available in a variety of cuts like bikini, boy short, and even thong. Try a few styles since your comfort level may change as your belly grows. If you have a special event or specific need, invest in one or two pairs that meet that need.
Sizing
It can be tricky to determine the right size for maternity underwear, especially when it feels like your body can change dramatically overnight. Check each brand’s sizing recommendations, but most pregnancy underwear (and maternity clothes in general) use sizing based on your pre-pregnancy size. Depending on where you are in your pregnancy, you may choose to purchase a few different pairs of maternity underwear in various sizes to accommodate your growing bump throughout your pregnancy.
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Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of an 11-year-old son, a 7-year-old son, and a 3-year-old daughter. If we’re being real, Maya just used her regular underwear throughout her pregnancies, but definitely needed some maternity bathing suits.
