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The Best Maternity Underwear

Last updated on June 26, 2023

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Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

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Our Picks For The Top Maternity Underwear

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
 Top Pick

Intimate Portal Super Low Waistline Maternity Underwear, 6-Pack

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Intimate Portal

Super Low Waistline Maternity Underwear, 6-Pack

Designed to fit under baby bumps, this set of three (or six) pairs of maternity underwear is made from 95% cotton and 5% Spandex, with a low-rise waistline that won’t press against the belly or irritate a C-section incision.

Overall Take

No Pressure at AllYou’ll like the soft lining and different colors of this comfy maternity wear.

 We Also Like

Suekaphin Low Waist & Full Rear Maternity Underwear, 8-Pack

Suekaphin

Low Waist & Full Rear Maternity Underwear, 8-Pack

Suekaphin’s imported maternity panties offer a low waist and complete rear coverage. It comes in eight to a pack. You'll appreciate that the fabric is nice and flexible and won’t feel itchy against your skin.

Overall Take

Ultra Soft; Super ComfyYou will rely on this lightweight, breathable underwear to keep you feeling comfortable during and after your pregnancy.

 We Also Like

Mama Cotton Over Bump Maternity Underwear, 4-Pack

Mama Cotton

Over Bump Maternity Underwear, 4-Pack

This over-the-bump maternity underwear goes all the way up to the waist. It even has an adjustable button design, so you can add more room as needed. The inner lining is made of 100% cotton, and the longer length supports your abdomen.

Overall Take

More Coverage; Adjustable Too!If you prefer to wear undergarments with more coverage when expecting, this is a great choice!

 Strong Contender

Angelhood Under Bump Cotton Maternity Underwear, 6-Pack

Angelhood

Under Bump Cotton Maternity Underwear, 6-Pack

Angelhood’s below-the-bump underwear is made from cotton and Spandex with a 100% cotton lining, so the stretch and softness won’t put any pressure on your body. It also has extra-wide leg openings that won’t feel irritating. You can feel confident going about your business whenever you have them on.

Overall Take

Lower in the FrontThese undies won’t cut into your belly, hips or thighs.

Buying Guide

Expectant mothers need to stay on top of their health before their babies are born, which means regular doctor checkups, eating right, avoiding alcohol and keeping fit. Staying comfortable can be challenging, but modern maternity wear and undergarment designs have significantly improved over the past decades.

While some pregnant women wear regular panties throughout their pregnancies and afterward, today’s maternity underwear can be softer, cozier and less restrictive than traditional underwear. Regular panties have waistbands that are often too tight or may hit in the wrong spot, while maternity styles are made to grow with you.

The three main styles of maternity underwear are over-the-bump, mid-bump and below-the-bump. Whichever one you purchase, check first to ensure that the waistband is extra soft and stretchy. The choice is really up to you; higher waistlines can offer more support to the abdomen, but lower waistlines can feel less restrictive. All three styles should also offer full bottom coverage, and some may have a bit of lace or other adornments.

You can find these undergarments in neutrals and most colors, plus plenty of patterns. They are usually sold in packs that have several pairs, but you can find single pairs sold separately. The fabrics are usually made from cotton or nylon and are stretchy like Spandex. 

Some maternity underwear is also designed for postpartum wear. Remember, the belly won’t return to its regular size for a while in most cases, so you will likely wear maternity underwear after giving birth; you may need the extra room for your comfort.

What to Look For

  • Postpartum underwear differs from maternity underwear, with the primary goal to hold the postpartum pads in place without irritation.
  • When shopping for maternity underwear, you will most likely need the same size as your regular panties. Still, check the sizing charts before ordering.
  • Low-rise maternity underwear is called “cradle style” and is lower in the front and higher in the back.
  • Some maternity underwear cannot be cleaned in washing machines or dried in dryers, so read the label instructions before washing.
  • There are also boy shorts-style maternity underwear that covers the upper parts of the thighs.
  • Always ensure that the maternity underwear you buy has a cotton lining to keep you cool.

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