Essentials
Measuring Tips
Worried about buying maternity clothes that fit? Well, the worry stops here. During pregnancy your body changes, but your size doesn't.
Typically your maternity size will be the same as before pregnancy — with a slightly larger cut, of course. Maternity clothes are cut differently than regular sizes, but leave lots of room for growth. They are also created for an average weight gain of 25-35 pounds.
For example, if you're a size 6 before pregnancy, which would be a size small, there's no need to size up to a medium to accommodate your pregnancy.
Of course, there's always an exception. If you're carrying twins or more, you'll most likely gain more weight than otherwise. In this case, you may need to buy a size larger than pre-pregnancy.
Below you'll learn how to properly measure yourself for maternity clothes, and you'll find measurement size charts, too. After reviewing, you'll be ready to shop for the basics as well as maternity must-haves!
How to measure
- Chest: With your arms relaxed, measure around the fullest part of your chest. Be sure to keep the tape measure parallel to the floor. It's a good idea to have someone help with this step.
- Hips: Stand with your legs together, then measure the fullest part of your hips. (Usually near the top of your legs.)
Size chart
| Pre-pregnancy measurements | S | M | L | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-6 | 8-10 | 12-14 | 16-18 | |
| Chest (bra size) | 34 ½ - 35 ½ | 36 - 38 | 39 ½ - 41 | 43 - 45 |
| Hips | 37 - 39 | 40 - 42 | 43 - 44 | 45 - 46 |
| Maternity size | S | M | L | XL |
Tummy Panels
The search for bottoms that both fit and flatter can be a shopping challenge. Follow these guidelines to help you determine what tummy panel works best for you:
No-Belly
HOW IT FITS: On the hips
FIT DESCRIPTION: Contemporary look and fit with panel-free construction and hidden back elastic for comfort and adjustability.
Underbelly
HOW IT FITS: Under the belly
FIT DESCRIPTION: Contemporary low-rise styling with all-around elastic panel that sits just below belly for light belly support.
Mid-Belly
HOW IT FITS: Middle of the belly
FIT DESCRIPTION: Comfortable all-around elastic waistband that sits mid-belly with moderate coverage.
Constructed Belly
HOW IT FITS: At the belly
FIT DESCRIPTION: Full belly coverage that is panel-free for a clean look with elastic back.
Secret Fit Belly™
HOW IT FITS: Over the belly
FIT DESCRIPTION: Full belly coverage with seamless technology for a clean look and complete support.
Nursing Bras
Most women outgrow their pre-pregnancy bras during their first trimester, so switching to nursing bras during this period is quite common.
Nursing bras provide comfort and function when you need it most. Special features include soft cups that open easily for discreet feeding, padded liners that prevent leaking and night support that holds you and your pads in place when at rest. Choose a bra that suits your specific needs:
Underwire Nursing Bra
Q: Why would you need an underwire nursing bra?
A: This bra is for the woman who desires the support of the underwire bra with all the extras a nursing bra has to offer.
Q: What features does an underwire nursing bra have?
A: The cups drop quickly and easily via a one-handed clasp. The inner sling holding the nursing pad provides protection when leakage occurs.
Soft Cup Nursing Bra
Q: Why would you need a soft cup nursing bra?
A: If you prefer a more organic look and feel, this bra is for you.
Q: What features does a soft cup nursing bra have?
A: It's constructed of stretchy breathable cotton with a soft-cup structure for a natural look and feel. The cups drop quickly with their easy one-handed clasp, making it a cinch to nurse. Adjustable, padded shoulder straps provide a custom fit and the inner slings for nursing pads ensure leakage protection.
Wrap Sleeping Bra
Q: Why would you need a sleeping bra?
A: The sleeping bra is a must-have for nighttime support and nursing. Wearing a sleeping bra helps reduce back pain, sagging and stretch marks on
your chest because it holds you in place all night long. This bra also has thicker straps that won't dig into your shoulders and soft, comfortable elastic under the bustline.
Q: When do you need a sleeping bra?
A: A sleeping bra is essential throughout pregnancy and nursing, but is especially beneficial around month six and beyond, when rapid growth may
occur. Additionally, some women wear their sleeping bra for low-impact exercise support.
Q: How does a sleeping bra function during nursing?
A: When you're nursing, comfort is key. The sleeping bra's soft, stretchy cotton spandex fabric hugs your bust without constricting. Also, with no underwire, there's no need to worry about clogged milk ducts. The sleeping bra holds nursing pads in place throughout the night and its simple wrap
design (pullover function) makes it ideal for nighttime or daytime use.
Q: How many sleeping bras should you buy and why?
A: A minimum of 3: one to wear, one to wash and one to have ready!
Nursing Pads
Nursing pads provide an additional layer of leak protection. Most nursing bras even have small pockets to ensure easy insertion of pads. Both machine-washable and disposable varieties are available. An all-cotton construction promotes increased air flow.