Pregnancy Guide
What Is Maternity Underwear?
Pregnancy changes everything. From your morning routine to your midnight snack cravings (ice cream, anyone?), your body’s in a state of transformation. When you're growing a tiny human, comfort and support are non-negotiable.
Enter maternity underwear — the unsung hero in your maternity wardrobe. Maternity underwear aren’t just about function; they’re designed to fit your changing body like a glove, offering a soft, supportive hug for your belly, back, and everything in between. It’s about comfort, support, and feeling good as your body works overtime creating a tiny human.
Whether you’re building your maternity wardrobe or searching for the perfect postpartum underwear, these undies are a must-have (literally, because your regular panties are likely not going to fit at some point in their pregnancy). Let’s dive into everything you need to know about maternity underwear and why they’ll have you sitting comfortably all day long.
What is Maternity Underwear?
Maternity underwear is specially designed to meet the needs of a pregnant body. Unlike regular underwear, these pieces are crafted to provide extra support, stretch, and comfort where you need it most. Think soft fabrics, seamless designs, and waistbands that don’t dig into your bump. Some styles even go above and beyond with features like breathable panels or moisture-wicking material (because, let’s be real, pregnancy hormones can get intense).
Many styles rise gently over your belly button to cradle your bump or dip below it, so you can skip the awkward rolling or digging. They’re the perfect pairing with your maternity bra, giving you that seamless combo of comfort and support while you focus on bringing your little baby into the world.
Benefits of Maternity Underwear: Why You’re Going To Love Them
Comfort for Your Postpartum Body
Your body does a lot during pregnancy and postpartum. Maternity underwear is crafted to provide extra comfort, especially when you’re healing. They’re soft, stretchy, and gentle on sensitive skin—perfect for those days when you need to feel a little extra cared for.
Support and Snug Fit
Pregnancy often comes with a side of backaches and pelvic pressure. Maternity undies offer light support that helps distribute the weight of your growing bump, giving your back and hips a much-needed break. It’s like a tiny team of cheerleaders for your body.
Easy on Your Belly—and Your Back
Nobody wants undies that pinch or roll down. Maternity underwear is designed with cuts and seams that don’t dig into your belly or back. Embrace maternity underwear, for example, features thoughtful designs that stay put, no matter how much you move.
Easy To Put On—and Stay On
We get it—bending down becomes a mission as your belly grows. The beauty of maternity underwear is that it’s so easy to wear. They’re cut in a way that lets you slip them on effortlessly and keeps them snugly in place, so you’re not fidgeting all day.
Extra Absorbency
Let’s talk about the less glamorous parts of pregnancy: leaks, discharge, and the occasional “oops” moments. Many maternity undies, like those with sonograph gel linings, offer extra absorbency. They’re a lifesaver for pee leaks, water breaking, or postpartum bleeding—because let’s face it, your regular panties can’t handle that kind of workload.
Different Types of Maternity Underwear
Maternity Briefs
These are the MVPs of maternity underwear, providing full coverage and support with soft elastic that stretches as you grow. Embrace maternity briefs are designed to feel like a second skin. It's crafted from luxurious Micro modal imported from Austria, a 100% organic cotton gusset for maximum breathability. The best part? The High Leg Maternity Briefs are designed to fits perfectly - pregnant or not. That means you can continue wearing it long after pregnancy (because no one likes buying things they can only use temporarily).
Other Types
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Over-the-Bump Underwear: These are high-rise styles that cover your entire belly. Perfect for the later stages of pregnancy when you want a little extra support or just love that cozy, secure feeling. Over-the-bump underwear, however, will no longer fit when you are pregnant, which gives them a short lifespan.
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Under-the-Bump Underwear: These sit below your belly, offering support without pressure on your bump. Great for moms-to-be who prefer something low-profile.
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Mid-Rise Options: A happy medium between the two. These are great if you’re transitioning between trimesters or just can’t decide which you prefer.
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Postpartum Underwear: Some maternity underwear doubles as postpartum wear, designed to support you after delivery and accommodate those glorious maternity pads.
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Belly Wraps: These combine underwear with light belly support
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Disposable Panties: Great for the messy postpartum days
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Period Underwear: Doubles as a backup for leaks during pregnancy or postpartum
Do You Really Need Maternity Underwear?
You might be wondering if maternity underwear is a must-have or just another way the baby industry gets you to spend more. The truth? It depends on your comfort level. Some women swear by it from the first trimester, while others don’t see the need until much later (or even stick with their regular undies throughout!).
Here’s a pro tip: Try one or two pairs and see how you feel. Chances are, once you experience the magic of a waistband that doesn’t dig or fabric that stretches perfectly, you’ll be hooked.
When To Start Wearing Maternity Underwear
The answer's simple: whenever your regular panties stop working their magic. Most moms-to-be reach for maternity underwear during the second trimester when their bump starts to pop, but there’s no hard and fast rule.
Some women crave the extra comfort and support from day one—and that’s totally fine. These undies are designed to offer support exactly where you need it, so listen to your body—it’ll let you know when it’s time to upgrade.
How Maternity Underwear Supports You During Each Trimester
First Trimester
In the early days, your belly is still small, but bloating and tenderness can make your regular undies feel tight. Maternity underwear with a low-rise cut or soft elastic waistband offers comfort without pressure.
Second Trimester
As your bump grows, support becomes key. Maternity briefs are perfect for this stage, providing gentle belly support and accommodating your expanding waistline.
Third Trimester
By now, your body is working overtime, and comfort is everything. High-rise maternity underwear cradles your bump, eases back pressure, and stays put through every wiggle and shift.
Fourth Trimester
Postpartum recovery is no joke, and maternity undies are your secret weapon. Whether you’re dealing with C-section healing, postpartum bleeding, or just need a soft, stretchy fit, these undies are designed to help you feel human again.
Choosing and Buying Maternity Underwear
When it comes to picking the perfect pair, here are some tips to keep in mind:
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Go for stretch: Look for natural / plant-based fabrics like cotton or modal with a touch of spandex for stretch.
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Check the gusset: The gusset (the extra layer of fabric sewn into the crotch portion of women's underwear) should be made of 100% organic cotton. Organic cotton is an ideal material for gussets due to its breathability, softness, and hypoallergenic properties, and reduce chemical exposure. This means less risk of irritation or infections, keeping your intimate area fresh and healthy. The gusset should also be wide enough for comfort.
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Check the fit: Make sure there’s room to grow, but not so loose that they slide around.
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Prioritize comfort: Look for seamless designs and soft elastic that won’t dig in.
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Stock up: Trust us, you’ll want more than one pair. Aim for at least a week’s worth to get you through.
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Invest in quality: Brands like Embrace offer premium maternity underwear that’s built to last through pregnancy and beyond.
Conclusion
Maternity underwear might not be the most glamorous purchase you make during pregnancy, but trust me, it’s one of the most practical. When your body feels supported and comfortable, it’s one less thing to think about during this whirlwind journey to motherhood.
Whether you love the classic maternity briefs or want to explore other styles like light compression panties or disposable postpartum options, the key is finding what makes you feel your best. Maternity underwear offers a balance of function and comfort that’s hard to beat, making it a game-changer for your maternity wardrobe.
Ready to find your perfect pair? We highly recommend checking out maternity underwear from Embrace. Go ahead—treat yourself. You’ve earned it!