What’s the best maternity underwear? As your body goes through changes during pregnancy, so too does your wardrobe. With your attention on finding flattering maternity dresses and jeans, it can be easy to overlook the basics: your underwear. While you may be tempted to keep wearing your favorite undies, regular underwear can stretch out or seams dig into your skin as your pregnancy progresses. Maternity underwear is designed to stretch with your growing bump and mold to your changing body. There are a few different styles of maternity underwear as well as other considerations that go into finding the perfect pair. Types of maternity underwear There are a few types of maternity underwear to consider, depending on your needs. Over-bump: High-waisted maternity underwear provides a full panel over your baby bump. This full coverage offers security and support with its added layer of material. Over-bump underwear works well under maternity dresses. Mid-bump: Mid-rise maternity underwear features a waistband that rests mid-bump. This style isn’t as common as over-bump and under-bump underwear. You want to be sure the waistband is soft, stretchy and not too constricting. Under-bump: Maternity underwear that sits below the bump is similar to low-rise briefs or bikinis that you wore before pregnancy. They don’t feel as restrictive as the other styles. You can wear them with under-bump maternity jeans and bottoms. Styles of maternity underwear You can find the same styles of regular underwear in maternity underwear, including bikinis, French cuts, briefs, boy shorts, high-waisted silhouettes, thongs and lacy lingerie. Ideally, buy different styles to go with different outfits, including comfortable pairs for sleeping. There are also maternity shapewear bottoms, which feature sculpting shorts to smooth thighs and your bottom. The belly is non-compressive to allow your bump to grow. Material You want a soft, stretchy fabric for your maternity underwear to avoid chafing and irritation. Cotton, modal and bamboo are all soft, breathable materials. Look for blends of these natural fibers with a percentage of spandex or elastane for added stretch. Nylon and polyester are materials that offer moisture-wicking properties but may not be as breathable as natural fabrics. What else to look for in maternity underwear Fit and size You don’t need to size up in maternity-specific underwear. Buy your pre-pregnancy size. The fit will accommodate your growing belly. Be sure the leg openings and waistband have plenty of stretch and recovery so they don’t dig into your skin or lose their shape. Also, be sure the leg openings are wide enough, which can be an issue with wearing regular underwear while pregnant. Comfort Pregnancy comes with a host of discomforts, so you don’t need underwear that’s riding up, digging in or feels too compressive. Underwear with stretch fabric is key to keeping maternity underwear from feeling too restrictive. You want a pair that not only feels good to wear but that you feel confident in. Breathability Pregnant bodies run warmer due to hormonal changes, so choosing a breathable fabric is a must. Cotton, bamboo, modal and breathable nylon are all good choices. Bamboo is naturally thermoregulating and will help keep you cool and dry. Nylon and polyester can draw sweat and moisture from the body. Seamlessness Seamless styles don’t have any seams that can dig into or irritate the skin. They also don’t show panty lines underneath clothing. Price Maternity underwear starts at $4 a pair and can cost up to $30 (or more for maternity shapewear). It’s cost-effective to buy multipacks and have at least seven pairs in rotation. Best maternity underwear Top over-bump maternity underwear Natori Women’s Bliss Perfection Brief These over-bump briefs are pretty and offer maximum coverage. They have lace accents and seamless construction. The silky-smooth jersey fabric is designed to stretch with you through the trimesters. Mama Cotton Women’s Over The Bump High Waist Underwear These comfortable high-waisted briefs stay put and won’t roll down. They cover your entire bump and the waistband isn’t too tight. They stretch with your bump, without stretching out, and can go in the washer and dryer without an issue. Feoya Over Bump Maternity Cotton Underwear These pretty, high-waisted panties are trimmed with nonirritating lace. The cotton-spandex blend is ribbed and attractive. The adjustable belt waistband is comfortable. Narcissus Seamless Maternity Shapewear Mid-Thigh Underwear This over-bump shapewear features shorts and smooths out your silhouette while being invisible from the outside. The belly panel is stretchy enough for your bump to grow and isn’t too constricting. Women love that this shapewear keeps thighs from chafing. Top under-bump maternity underwear Intimate Portal Maternity Under The Bump Boy Short Briefs These cute boy shorts fit right under your baby bump for comfort. The cotton-spandex fabric is soft, breathable and stretchy. They’ll grow with you without getting too tight. They can be worn during C-section recovery, as well. Kindred Bravely Under the Belly Maternity Underwear With its comfy crossover style, these under-belly briefs sit low under your growing belly. The material is soft and stretchy, and some women continue wearing them postpartum due to their comfort. Intimate Portal Under The Bump Foldable Briefs This foldover style maternity underwear allows for adjustable coverage either below the bump or low-bump. The cotton blend meets Oeko-Tex standards and is soft and comfy. The gusset is wide enough for wearing pads postpartum, too. Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. 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