11 Best Maternity Underwear for All Stages of Pregnancy

By Deanna Pai

While swapping out certain wardrobe essentials during pregnancy might be a given (looking at you, push-up bras), the best maternity underwear is one category that often goes overlooked—until your regular underwear no longer fits. While you may be able to make do with your usual undergarments during your first trimester, a growing bump can eventually contribute to chafing and unwanted compression. And since pregnancy can be a challenging time as it is, physically speaking, staying comfy is of the utmost importance—even (and maybe especially) when it comes to your undies.

As with most maternity clothes, be they nursing bras or maternity dresses, maternity undies cater more to function over form (with the exception of sexy nursing bras). So while you won't find a ton of lingerie-minded options, you’ll have no problem finding designs made with stretchy materials like Spandex and modal. "Maternity underwear helps support the tummy and allows for the additions of postpartum feminine hygiene products—which are pads, as we do not encourage tampons in the immediate postpartum period," ob-gyn and pH-D Feminine Health adviser Ruth Arumala, DO, told Glamour previously.

Similarly, New York–based doula and Motherfigure adviser Robin Douthit told Glamour previously, "Some women prefer to wear underwear that looks and feels close to whatever they were wearing before pregnant. The idea is not always to change personal style, and varying designs make it possible to suit specific style preferences." Plus, we love a versatile buy, and in another acknowledgment of your changing body during this time, some maternity panties can also double as postpartum underwear, which usually calls for some absorbency.

Fabric-wise, Douthit recommended "soft cotton or bamboo," which is "breathable and more comfortable, especially in warm weather or when pregnant bodies heat up due to hormone surges." Additionally, she said that trying one size up may offer a more comfortable fit. Dr. Arumala also recommended considering materials that are stretchy but able to maintain shape, with a supportive waistband that's fitted but not tight.

While shopping for pregnancy underwear ultimately comes down to personal preference—whether you prefer an under-bump design or want a little shapewear action—a little guidance can go a long way. Below, the best maternity underwear to see you through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.

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This pair (sold in a pack of six) is loved for its low-rise crossover design, which sits under the bump, and breathable cotton-and-spandex blend fabric. It reaches high in the back too, which is a plus if you love maternity jeans.

For pregnancy panties with belly support, this over-the-belly design is a winner. The high-waist design has mesh microfiber panels on the stomach and thighs to prevent overheating, and the lumbar panel in the back keeps pressure off your hips.

A fold-over style adds for max customization, since you can wear it pulled up (over the belly) or folded under the bump. While the fit of these is more relaxed, they won't fall or droop during the day.

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For high-waist underwear that doesn't go all the way over the bump (again, it's a matter of preference), this supersoft pair delivers. It offers enough coverage to keep you comfortable while still offering a ton of breathability.

If you're exercising during pregnancy, (a) we salute you, and (b) get a pair of these moisture-wicking undies, which are with cooling minerals to regulate your body temperature. Plus, the seams are virtually undetectable, even under black leggings.

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Oh, so you don't want visible panty lines showing under your maternity leggings? Meet the most comfortable maternity thong. This best-selling pair feels like nothing, thanks to the lightweight fabric that has ample stretch (but won't lose its elasticity over time).

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If you're in the market for more coverage, these high-waist boy shorts run a bit longer. The single-layer design offers breathability, while the waistband adds support.

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These low-rise hipster panties sit under the bump comfortably, because of the crossover waistband that allows some give. Depending on where you are in your pregnancy, though, you might need to go up a size.

Postpartum recovery is hard enough as it is without your underwear being uncomfortable. These maternity briefs offer a cheeky cut that doesn't feel too exposed, and the high-waist silhouette goes above the C-section incision line to avoid putting pressure on the area.

With a foldable waistband and breathable fabric, these make for a basic (but comfortable) set of underwear, which is pretty much the goal if you're looking for something just to see you through the next few months.

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Once you’ve given birth (and have gone through the maternity diapers from the hospital), leakproof underwear can be a godsend. (They can also be helpful to handle the various bodily fluids that appear during pregnancy.) The gusset has multiple layers of highly absorbent material to keep you feeling fresh and dry, and the scalloped edges are designed to prevent leaks.

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By Brigitt Earley

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