Your body changes in many ways during pregnancy and after birth – and your wardrobe often needs to change with it. This is especially true of your underwear. Your breasts are likely to grow and shrink during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and your former favourite knickers may well be less comfortable or secure after birth. At the same time, you’re likely to have loose skin and a different shape that you may want to support through your underwear. But where should you start? Is it safe to wear shapewear while your body is settling after birth? Can you wear a ‘normal’ bra for a night out if you’re lactating? Should you throw away all your pre-pregnancy undies? Lots of questions – and surprisingly few answers out there. So, to help you out, here’s a practical guide to buying new underwear after pregnancy:
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Don’t fixate on your old body – focus on what’s comfortable for you now
Your body may not ‘snap back’ straight after birth. This is perfectly natural, and not something to fixate over. Instead, focus on what works best for your post-pregnancy body in the moment. Your body will go through several changes post-pregnancy and take a while to ‘settle’, so don’t force it into uncomfortable underwear. In the first weeks post-partum, focus on comfort and necessary support, not on shape. If you do need to wear something with a bit more structure, seek out well-made women’s shapewear that’s soft, safe, and forgiving for new mums.
Measure yourself before you shop
Your bra and underwear sizes may have changed dramatically during pregnancy, especially if you are breastfeeding or pumping. Growing babies do more than just swell your tummy – they can expand your ribcage as well! So, even if you think you’ve not put on much weight around your ribs, you might be surprised at the change in your band size. Your hips can also widen and, of course, your breasts may fluctuate in size as hormones and lactation kick in. So, take fresh measurements with a soft tape measure – and keep on doing so as the weeks pass. Your body will keep changing for some time after pregnancy, and again after breastfeeding.
For bras, measure around your rib cage and the fullest part of your bust. If possible, get fitted at a store that understands maternity and nursing needs. For underwear, measure your waist and hips, then check the size chart for each brand. However, remember that different styles of underwear often fit differently regardless of size, so don’t be surprised if you’re a different size in different styles. Always try on, if possible, before buying.
Another thing to remember is that your post-pregnancy underwear may well not last long before your body changes again. You might lose a bunch of weight, or put on weight, and your muscle mass is likely to shift as your body deals with the rigours and hormones of new motherhood. So, while it’s always a good idea to look for quality, do bear cost-per-wear and your budget in mind. You’re not looking for pieces that will last for years – just pieces that will get you through the post-partum period.
Choose soft, breathable fabrics
Comfort should be your top priority right now. Look for cotton, bamboo, modal, or microfiber blends that feel smooth against sensitive skin. Breathable fabrics can help reduce irritation, especially if you are healing from birth, dealing with sweating, struggling with leaky breasts, or wearing pads during postpartum bleeding.
Avoid scratchy lace, stiff waistbands, and seams that dig in. Decorative underwear isn’t totally out; you can definitely wear it if you want to feel sexy and special! But everyday postpartum pieces should be easy to wear for long stretches. If you had a C-section, choose high-waisted styles that sit above the incision rather than directly on it, so that you don’t irritate the wound.
Prioritise support without restriction
Postpartum bodies often need support – but that support should be as gentle as possible. Don’t wear anything that’s too restrictive. Remember, your body needs space to settle. High-waisted briefs can offer light support around the belly while still allowing you to move, sit, and breathe comfortably. Further, some people prefer full-coverage underwear in the first few months because it’s generally more comfortable and secure.
For bras, wireless styles are often more comfortable than underwire during breastfeeding, especially in the early weeks when breasts may feel tender or swollen. Nursing bras with easy clips, pull-aside cups, or stretchy fabric can make feeding simpler.
This doesn’t mean that underwire bras are out during nursing. You absolutely can wear an underwire bra, and even a ‘normal’ non-nursing bra if you prefer while lactating. However, choose a comfortable version, with a wire that doesn’t press into your breast tissue. The wire should rest on your ribs and sternum, and not dig in at all. You may also want to look into pads if you have sore or leaky nipples, especially if you want to wear a design with lacy detail.
Think about your daily routine
How you spend your days will change a lot when you have a newborn, and your underwear needs will change accordingly. Remember, you’re likely to spend a lot of time sitting with the baby, so you’ll need comfortable underwear that – if breastfeeding – gives baby easy access to milk. You’ll also want underwear that’s easy to chuck in the washing machine – you’ll be doing A LOT of laundry as new parents!
Give yourself time and grace
Buying underwear after pregnancy can be tricky – it highlights just how much your body has changed. So, try to approach the process with patience. Your body has done something absolutely incredible, and it deserves clothing that’s kind, supportive, and comfortable.
The right underwear will not be the same for everyone. Choose pieces that help you feel secure, allow you to care for your baby, and support your recovery. Above all, let fit and comfort guide your decisions, not a label, a size, or pressure to look a certain way.
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