Shopping for underwear during pregnancy and postpartum is about finding underwear that’s soft, comfortable, won't pinch or dig, and sits comfortably over or under your bump during pregnancy, and offers gentle support for postpartum bellies. This postpartum and maternity underwear guide will help you understand what to look for so you’re comfortable from pregnancy through postpartum.
Why Supportive & Comfortable Underwear Makes A Difference
During pregnancy, your body can change from week to week. Your skin stretches, making it more sensitive to friction and tight elastic bands. When you’re pregnant, you don’t want a restrictive underwear waistband digging into your growing belly or seams rubbing against delicate areas.
After childbirth, your body starts a slow and long healing and recovery process. Whether you have a vaginal delivery or a c-section, the pelvic and abdominal areas remain incredibly tender for weeks. Proper-fitting postpartum underwear offers gentle compression to support healing muscles, and keeps maternity pads securely in place without adding unnecessary pressure to sensitive areas.
Features To Look For In Postpartum & Maternity Underwear
When shopping for maternity and postpartum underwear, here are some important features to look for.
Breathable Fabrics
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and postpartum often cause increased night sweats and changes in body temperature. The best maternity underwear is breathable, stretches, keeps you cool, and feels soft against sensitive skin.
Stretchy
Look for postpartum and maternity underwear that grows with your changing body and doesn’t lose its shape after washing. Our high-waisted briefs are made with a super stretchy, ultra-soft modal fabric blend that supports you no matter what trimester you’re in.
Hardware Free Underwear
Sharp seams can press into the skin, causing discomfort, indentations, and irritation. This is why we designed our high-waisted briefs for moms to be super comfortable during pregnancy and postpartum. The non-elastic waistband won’t pinch or dig in and reduces friction, so it’s great against sensitive skin.
C-Section Recovery
If you deliver via c-section, your incision likely sits low on your abdomen. Elastic from regular underwear can rub directly against the stitches, causing intense pain and delaying how long it takes your incision to heal. Underwear that is specific for c-sections is extremely important. Larken’s high-waisted underwear sits above the incision line, and is designed to reduce friction on your incision.
Postpartum Bleeding
Lochia, commonly known as postpartum bleeding, can last for several weeks after birth. Hospital-issued mesh underwear is really helpful during this time, but you’ll likely want to transition to your own underwear when you get home. Black fabrics help conceal inevitable stains so you don't worry about ruining your clothes. Our high-waisted briefs are wide and sturdy gusset must be wide and sturdy so you’re protected day and night.
Best Postpartum & Maternity Underwear
Larken’s postpartum and maternity underwear adapts to your changing shape, prevents chafing, and helps you recover comfortably. Key features of our high-waisted briefs:
- Adapts to your body through pregnancy and postpartum
- Provides gentle support over or under your belly without digging in
- Stretchy fabric moves with your body for day and night comfort
- Non-restrictive, supportive waistband
- C-section friendly
FAQs
What kind of underwear is best after a c-section?
The best underwear after a c-section is soft, high-waisted, and made from breathable, non-irritating fabric. Larken’s high-waisted briefs sit above the incision so there’s no rubbing or pressure on the healing area.
How many pairs of c-section recovery underwear do I need?
Most people find 7–10 pairs is a good amount of c-section recovery underwear to have, especially in the first few weeks postpartum when you’re changing often.
Why shouldn’t I wear regular underwear after giving birth?
Regular underwear often sits too low, has tighter waistbands, or uses less forgiving fabrics. After birth, your body needs more softness and flexibility, especially as your body is healing.
When should I start wearing maternity underwear?
Many people start wearing maternity underwear during the first or second trimester when regular underwear starts to feel tight or uncomfortable around the waist and hips.
Will maternity underwear grow with my bump?
Larken’s maternity underwear is made from high-quality, stretchy material that grows with your changing belly. They are great to wear through all stages of pregnancy, as well as postpartum!
