From the first trimester to the postpartum period, maternity underwear can provide essential support and comfort to your ever-changing body. Once your everyday underwear becomes uncomfortable, it’s time to invest in maternity underwear designed to adapt to your growing belly. Some pairs even offer leak protection or cooling panels to address the various changes you’ll experience during pregnancy, such as hormone-induced discharge, bladder leaks, and body temperature fluctuations.
According to Princess McKinney-Kirk, a Phoenix-based postpartum doula and founder of BelliBind postpartum belly support wraps, the most important features of maternity underwear are flexibility and support. “Your belly is expanding, your hips are widening, and everything seems to be shifting—that’s where stretchy underwear becomes your best friend,” says McKinney-Kirk. Maternity underwear can also continue to support your body after delivery while it heals.
To create this list, we researched maternity underwear from well-known brands and consulted experts on what to look for. Members of our staff also wore many of our selections, originally as part of our postpartum underwear test. We assessed each product’s comfort, fit, style, breathability, stretchiness, and support. Our top picks fit a range of budgets and preferences and address myriad maternity-specific needs. Ultimately, when it comes to maternity underwear, prioritize what feels best for you.
Our Favorite Postpartum Maternity Underwear
1. Bodily High-Waisted Panties
Why We Like It: These high-waisted panties offer everything you’re looking for in a pair of postpartum underwear. The luxuriously soft micro-modal material stretches to accommodate your changing body. The wide elastic waistband provides the right amount of support without pinching during birth recovery. The fabric is OEKO-TEX certified free of potentially harmful chemicals, and the design clears C-section incisions and potential swelling, with a wider gusset to accommodate postpartum maxi pads.
Pros:
- Soft micro-modal material
- Wide elastic waistband
- OEKO-TEX certified
- Clears C-section incisions
Cons:
- Some wearers reported insufficient butt coverage
- Material began shedding after the first wear
- Visible panty lines under leggings
The Details:
- Style: High-waist
- Sizes: Small to 3X
- Material: 93% micro-modal, 7% elastane
- Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
2. Amazon Essentials Over-Belly Panty
Why We Like It: This jersey-knit panty grows with you, offering a two-in-one design for comfort and support. The wide waistband can be worn over the belly for extra support or folded down for under-belly comfort. The cotton/Lycra blend is super soft, lightweight, and stretchy, making it a versatile option.
Pros:
- Versatile wide waistband
- Soft and stretchy material
- Available in a wide range of colors
Cons:
- Can become stretched out and loose
- Fabric is thin and may roll down when folded
The Details:
- Style: Over or under the belly
- Sizes: Small to 3X
- Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex
- Care instructions: Machine wash
3. Amazon Essentials Adjustable Button Design Panties
Why We Like It: These over-the-bump jersey knit panties feature an innovative adjustable button design that allows you to customize the size of the elastic waistband as your belly grows. The underwear is comfortable, provides great back coverage, and covers the entire belly.
Pros:
- Adjustable button design
- Comfortable and breathable
- Excellent back coverage
Cons:
- Quality may not be high
- Only need to last about nine months
The Details:
- Style: Over belly
- Sizes: Small to 4X
- Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex; Crotch lining: 100% cotton
- Care instructions: Machine wash
4. HATCH Seamless Briefs
Why We Like It: Known for their splurge-worthy maternity clothes, Hatch offers seamless briefs in a modal, nylon, and elastane blend. The full-coverage briefs provide support and gentle compression, helping to smooth out your shape. They are comfortable enough to wear all day and offer postpartum support.
Pros:
- Seamless design
- Supportive and gentle compression
- Comfortable for all-day wear
Cons:
- Can roll down, especially postpartum
- Ribbed fabric may not suit those with C-section scars
The Details:
- Style: Brief
- Sizes: Small to X-Large
- Material: 84% modal, 13% nylon, 3% elastane
- Care instructions: Machine wash, line dry
5. Proof Leakproof Panties
Why We Like It: These panties boast heavy absorbency, perfect for during and after pregnancy, with water-resistant outer fabric for extra protection. They draw moisture away from the body with multiple layers of absorbent material, ideal for managing temperature changes and leaks.
Pros:
- Heavy absorbency
- Water-resistant outer fabric
- Comfortable for active wear
Cons:
- Not as soft or breathable as other options
- Can retain heat and cause sweating
The Details:
- Style: Brief
- Sizes: X-Small/Small, Medium/Large, X-Large
- Material: 75% nylon, 25% spandex (outer); 100% polyester (top lining); 70% polyester, 30% cotton (inner lining); 100% polyester (bottom lining)
- Care instructions: Machine wash, hang to dry
Tips for Postpartum Mums
- Choose Comfort: Prioritize soft materials and stretchy fabrics to avoid discomfort and support your healing body.
- Opt for Breathability: Hormonal changes can cause increased body temperature, so breathable fabrics can help you stay cool and comfortable.
- Look for Support: High-waisted and supportive designs can help alleviate discomfort from postpartum recovery, C-section scars, or vaginal tears.
- Consider Leakproof Options: Leakproof underwear can provide peace of mind during the postpartum period, managing any unexpected leaks or discharge.
- Plan for Convenience: Choose machine-washable options to make your life easier, allowing you to focus on your new baby without worrying about laundry.
Selecting the right postpartum maternity underwear can make a significant difference in your comfort and confidence. By focusing on what feels best for you and your changing body, you can navigate this special time with ease and grace.