Whether or not you need to purchase maternity panties - or simply buy a larger version of what you already wear - is strictly a matter of personal taste. In fact, if you still want to wear those old bikinis during pregnancy, and they feel comfortable, then feel free to do so - being pregnant doesn't have to mean starting every day by pulling on a pair of billowy Grandma Bloomers.
But according to Colette Bouchez, author of "Your Perfectly Pampered Pergnancy", since you're likely to have extra vaginal discharge as as well as some degree of incontinence during this time, you'll want to choose maternity fabrics that are easy to wash, dry quickly and don't stain easily. You may also need to choose a style with a substantial crotch width. In the event that you will want to wear a sanitary pad during your pregnancy, it helps if the crotch is wide enough for the pad to fit comfortably and adhere.
The one specialty lingerie item Bouchez insists you should definitely consider is maternity pantyhose.
" It seems no matter how large a size you choose in regular hose, the top is likely to slide off your belly and end up in an uncomfortable puddle at the top of your crotch. Maternity pantyhose have a wider, softer, stretchier top that can more easily smooth up and over your tummy, and remain relatively secure on your stomach for the whole day," she says. . Another must-have for many women: A pregnancy girdle or maternity support belt.
"While you may have detested even the thought of wearing this type of garment before you conceived, there is no question that you have to change your thinking. Not only will a maternity girdle help your clothes to look and fit better, the extra support it provides to your tummy AND your back can help ease many pregnancy aches and pains, and even prevent some from occurring at all," says Bouchez.
But if you are tempted to skip the maternity department and instead shop for a regular girdle in a larger size, don't. While support is important, Bouchez points out that it's equally important that your stomach does not experience extreme compression.
" Most maternity girdles concentrate on back support and have ultra stretchy, soft front panels that won't bind or cut your stomach in front. So, they are both safer and more comfortable to wear," says Bouchez.
After your baby is born she suggests investing in a postpartum girdle. These garments offer extra support under the stomach, while keeping waist compression to a minimum. Many also come with a snap closure on the crotch, allowing you to easily change a menstrual pad without having to pull the girdle down.
Maternity Underwear Buying Guide
Maternity Underwear Buying Guide
Pampering Mom.com
