The Best Maternity Underwear to Keep You Comfortable in Every Trimester

From the first trimester to the postpartum period, maternity underwear can provide support and comfort to your ever-changing body. Once you’re no longer comfortable in your everyday undies, it’s time to invest in maternity underwear, which is designed to adapt to your growing belly. Some pairs even offer leak protection or cooling panels to address the laundry list of changes you’ll experience during pregnancy, like 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 help cradle 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. We also tried out many of the 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 Maternity Underwear

• Best Overall: Bodily All-In Panty 3-Pack 
• Best Fold-Over: Motherhood Maternity Foldover Panty 3-Pack
• Best Plus-Sized: Mama Cotton Over the Bump Maternity Panties 5-Pack
• Best Seamless: Hatch The Seamless Belly Brief 
• Best Under-Belly: Bodily Under the Belly Panty 3-Pack
• Best High-Waisted: Jockey Generation High-Waist Maternity Briefs
• Best Leakproof: Proof Leakproof Essential Brief
• Best Disposable: Rael Organic Disposable Underwear 10-Pack
• Best for Maternity Through Postpartum: Kindred Bravely Grow with Me Maternity & Postpartum Brief
• Best Postpartum: Innersy Cotton Postpartum High Waisted Panties 5-Pack

Why We Like It

These high-waisted panties have everything you’re looking for in a pair of underwear, both before and after the birth of your baby. When you’re expecting, the luxuriously soft micro-modal material (some say it feels like silk) stretches to accommodate your transforming body. During birth recovery, the wide elastic waistband won’t pinch and gives you just the right amount of support. 

The fabric is also OEKO-TEX certified free of potentially harmful chemicals. The high waist and forgiving low-cut thighs clear C-section incisions and potential swelling, and a wider gusset accommodates postpartum maxi pads. Our postpartum tester noted that “the material is not a super-tight weave, so there’s a good deal of airflow allowing for plenty of breathability.”

But Take Note

Some wearers reported the butt coverage is lacking, resulting in frequent wedgies. Our tester noted the material began shedding after the first wear, and the seams caused visible panty lines under leggings.

The Details:

• Style: High-waist
• Sizes: Small to XL
• Material: OEKO-TEX 93% micromodal, 7% elastane
• Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry

Why We Like It

This jersey-knit panty grows with you in the best way. Consider it a two-in-one for whatever your changing body needs for comfort and support. The versatile wide waistband can be worn over the belly for extra support or folded down beneath it for under-belly comfort. Available in a wide range of colors, the briefs are forgiving in fit and feel thanks to a cotton/Lycra blend that reviewers say is super soft, lightweight, and stretchy.

But Take Note

Some pregnant and postnatal women noted that it didn’t take long before the panties became stretched out and a bit loose. Because the fabric is on the thinner side, the undergarments stay up when pulled up over the bump but can roll further when folded down.

The Details:

• Style: Over or under the belly
• Sizes: Small to 3X 
• Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex
• Care instructions: Machine wash

Why We Like It

These over-the-bump jersey knit panties are available in sizes up to 4X and 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 coverage in the back, and covers the entire belly. Soft and breathable, these offer plenty of room for expansion and superior elasticity that stretches without getting worn out. 

But Take Note

At under $30 for a five-pack, don’t expect super high quality. Still, you only need maternity underwear 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

Why We Like It

Known for their splurge-worthy maternity clothes in feel-good fabrics, Hatch hits the mark with these seamless briefs. Crafted in a modal, nylon, and elastane fabric blend, the full-coverage briefs go over the belly for support and gentle compression that helps smooth you out. Comfortable enough to wear the entire day, reviewers note this underwear is also super helpful for postpartum support.

But Take Note

Our tester said these pricey panties rolled down so much she ended up “giving up and just folding them down.” The underwear’s fabric is also ribbed, so if you’re recovering from a C-section or have sensitive skin, these might work for you.

The Details:

• Style: Brief
• Sizes: Small to X-Large 
• Material: 84% modal, 13% nylon, 3% elastane
• Care instructions: Machine wash, line dry

Why We Like It

These maternity panties get major points for softness and stretchiness, thanks to the cotton/spandex blend. With the Bodily’s style and fit, you’ll never get any of the uncomfortable wedgies that are typical with most under-belly maternity panties. Because they’re low-cut, they don’t place any pressure on your body and your belly is left to grow without any compression. After delivery, these can also be helpful for C-section recovery, since the low waistline won’t irritate your healing scar.

But Take Note

The gusset isn’t very thick, so if you are experiencing leaking or spotting, you'll need a pad. It also doesn’t offer any abdominal support.

The Details:

• Style: Under the belly
• Sizes: Small to 3X 
• Material: OEKO-TEX certified micromodal
• Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry

Why We Like It

The blended fabric of these high-waist maternity briefs is soft, breathable, and stretches to fit your belly perfectly as it grows. Thanks to the seam-free design and no-roll waistband, they also create a smooth, line-free silhouette under your favorite maternity outfits. They offer plenty of bottom coverage and pull up high enough to fit over your growing bump no matter your trimester. The fabric is even thick enough to hide a recently popped belly button.

But Take Note

These underwear tend to run a little small and the material isn’t very soft.

The Details:

• Style: Super high-waisted
• Sizes: Small/Medium, Large/X-Large, and 1X/2X 
• Material: 54% nylon, 43% modal, 3% spandex
• Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry

Why We Like It

These panties boast heavy absorbency perfect for during and after your pregnancy, with water-resistant outer fabric for extra protection. They draw moisture away from the body with multiple layers of absorbent material, which can help with the temperature changes that your body experiences. The classic fit provides moderate coverage as you navigate your new body’s surprises. 

Our postpartum tester felt comfortable and secure during all her activities while wearing these for a 24-hour period, saying, “I felt I could move without being overly conscious of a bulky pad.” These are not specifically maternity panties, though they should be low-cut enough to be comfortably tucked under the belly. Still, you may want to consider sizing up. 

But Take Note

Because of their absorbency and waterproofing, these aren’t as soft or breathable as some of our other picks. Our tester noted they can retain heat, so you might get a little sweaty.

The Details:

• Style: Brief
• Sizes: X-Small/Small, Medium/Large, X-Large 
• Material: Outer 75% nylon, 25% spandex. Top lining 100% polyester. Inner lining 70% polyester, 30% cotton. Bottom lining 100% polyester.
• Care instructions: Machine wash, hang to dry

Why We Like It

Disposable underwear is ideal for those experiencing leaks or discharge during pregnancy or the postpartum period. Made from nontoxic, organic materials like OCS-certified non-GMO cotton, these feel more like regular underwear than disposable. These briefs boast 12-hour leak prevention and a fit that respects curvy bodies. The fabric is lightweight, and the built-in four-layer core absorbs odor and holds as much liquid as four regular pads. 

But Take Note

The elastic fits a bit loose around the thighs, and the butt area could stand to have more coverage.

The Details:

• Style: Brief
• Sizes: Small/Medium and Large/X-Large 
• Material: 100% certified organic cotton top sheet
• Care instructions: Disposable

Why We Like It

Light as a feather, these barely there ultra-lightweight undies will last you throughout your pregnancy and into early motherhood. The breathable, soft, and stretchy fabric and full-coverage style help the underwear expand and grow as you do throughout your pregnancy journey and beyond. They also boast a thick waistband that doesn’t dig in, and the style is relatively undetectable under clothing.

But Take Note

The high-cut brief style might not work for those with C-section scars, and this is not the panty for you if you want full coverage in the back. The thin fabric also doesn’t offer a lot of support.  

The Details:

• Style: Brief
• Sizes: X-Small to 1X 
• Material: Body: 80% nylon, 20% spandex. Crotch lining 100% cotton.
• Care instructions: Machine wash gentle cycle, tumble dry

Why We Like It

The soft fabric is a winning detail on these high-waisted briefs, with a breathable cotton-stretch body and 100% cotton crotch lining that helps with perspiration and comfort. Our tester relied on these during her healing process after her C-section was complicated by painful skin irritation. The waistband stayed put so she didn’t have to keep readjusting. These panties offer support without being overly constrictive: They “didn't feel too tight on my body. They were stretchy, while also being sturdy,” our tester said. These could also easily be used during pregnancy by sizing up.

But Take Note

Because of the amount of fabric used to create a comfortable high-waisted, full-back style, these panties are noticeable under certain outfits. 

The Details:

• Style: High-waisted
• Sizes: X-Small to 3X 
• Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex. Crotch lining 100% cotton.
• Care instructions: Machine wash

Our Testing and Review Process 

To determine the best maternity underwear for pregnancy and the postpartum period, we consulted experts about what to look for in maternity underwear and researched options from well-known brands. Several products on this list were also part of our test of postpartum underwear, conducted by our own staffers who had recently given birth. We paid special attention to each of the following attributes when deciding which pairs belong on our list:  

• Comfort: We noted how comfortable the undies were in terms of waistband thickness and location, level of compression, and fabric softness.
• Fit: Keeping butt coverage and thigh hole size in mind, we assessed how well the panties fit and felt.
• Breathability: Body temperature changes are common in pregnancy as hormones fluctuate, so we assessed how much airflow and moisture-wicking the fabric allowed.
• Support: We noted if the panties provided light compression to help support a growing belly in pregnancy and a deflating belly postpartum.
• Care: We preferred machine wash options to make life easier, but noted any specific care instructions so you can ensure your panties last as long as possible.

Our Experts

We spoke to the following healthcare professionals and birthing parents to find out what to look for when choosing maternity underwear to suit your needs:

• Donna Adams Pickett, PhD, MD, an Augusta, Georgia-based board-certified OB/GYN and renowned expert in the field of Black maternal health
• Audrey Blauvelt, a Boston-based mom who recently gave birth to a baby girl via  C-section
• Princess McKinney-Kirk, a Phoenix-based postpartum doula and CEO of BelliBind postpartum belly wrap company

Factors to Consider When Buying Maternity Underwear

• Stage of Pregnancy: Your belly will extend roughly five to six times its baseline size over the course of pregnancy. As pelvis ligaments loosen to prepare for baby’s arrival, your hips spread slightly and the bottom widens, often sparking the need for larger-sized undergarments. To avoid purchasing new underwear every six weeks or so, Dr. Pickett suggests choosing pairs with enough elasticity to accommodate this rapid size increase.
• Comfort and Safety: McKinney-Kirk recommends looking for soft materials that won't dig in or feel restrictive and steering clear of underwear that feels too snug to avoid excessive compression on the belly or hips. “Tight undies can cause discomfort and even affect blood flow,” she warns. Dr. Pickett agrees, adding that pregnant people should avoid underwear that sits on the bikini line, as it may cause chafing and irritation under a growing belly.
• Size: Choosing the right size for maternity underwear can be tricky, especially when it feels like your body can change dramatically overnight. Most pregnancy underwear corresponds to your pre-pregnancy size, but be sure to check each brand’s size chart.
• Support: Embrace the “granny panty” look, says Dr. Pickett. “Panties that sit higher on the belly can support the growing tummy by lifting it up from the bottom, which can decrease pain and discomfort in the ligaments,” she says. For a little extra support, McKinney-Kirk also suggests maternity undies with built-in belly panels or wider waistbands.
• Style: The two main types of maternity underwear are over-belly, which has a stretchy panel that covers and supports your bump with light compression and/or a breathable panel, and under-belly, a design that rests around your hips and underneath your bump that’s ideal during warmer months. Maternity underwear is also available in bikini, boy short, and even thong. (Our experts say thongs can make you more susceptible to vaginal infections, though a cotton gusset can reduce this risk.) Try a few styles throughout your pregnancy since your preferences may change.
• Material: Dr. Pickett recommends panties with a cotton-lined crotch. “There’s typically extra moisture from leukorrhea (a milky discharge due to rapid cell turnover in the vagina during pregnancy) and sweat, which can increase the risk for overgrowth of yeast and bacteria.” Look for brands with cotton panels and Lycra or spandex throughout the panty to help support the uterus and stabilize the hips.
• Stretchiness: Opt for styles with give, allowing them to accommodate your changing shape without feeling tight or constricted. Most maternity underwear is made with a bit of stretchy material and has forgiving elastic. 
• Leakproof Features: Thanks to leukorrhea, leaking is something pregnant women frequently experience. Thankfully, today’s leakproof options feel less like diapers and more like comfortable, stylish choices that keep you dry and confident. You may prefer washable or disposable options.

When should you start wearing maternity underwear?

Much like your regular clothes, when you feel like your everyday undergarments aren’t fitting anymore, it’s time to invest in maternity underwear. As your body continues to undergo changes throughout pregnancy, you may find you prefer different styles.

Does your underwear size change when you’re pregnant?

Typically, you should still wear the same size in maternity underwear as you do in regular underwear. However, some people may want to go up a size to allow more room to grow. Note that each brand is different, so consult the size chart to ensure you get a good fit.

How many pairs of maternity underwear do you need? 

This will differ for each person. Consider how frequently leakage prompts underwear changes throughout the day and how often you want to do laundry, then get as many pairs as you need to have enough between loads. You’ll likely want at least seven pairs. Many options come in three-packs and five-packs to help you save money.  

Can I still wear maternity underwear after the baby is born?

Absolutely. McKinney-Kirk suggests wearing maternity briefs or high-waisted undies to help support your healing from postpartum hemorrhoids, vaginal tears, or a C-section incision to give your delicate areas some breathing room.

Who We Are

Cheryl Fenton is a Boston-based freelance lifestyle writer who has enjoyed a 30-year career of bylining in national magazines and on popular websites, as well as authoring a book or two. As the mother of a 17-year-old daughter, she is amazed at how far maternity underwear has come since the days of wearing her husband’s boxers and calling it a day.