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Best maternity underwear for pregnancy and beyond
Comfort is key when it comes to maternity underwear. Here’s our pick of the nicest knickers and most perfect pants for pregnancy and beyond.
By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated Dec 20, 2023
The best maternity underwear can make all the difference to how you feel in pregnancy, as well as making any outfit look instantly better.
In pregnancy, your skin is more sensitive, your body temperature higher… and that’s before we even get to your burgeoning bump (and all the other bits that seem to be burgeoning, too). Pregnancy underwear that helps keep you cool and comfortable, and doesn’t constantly roll down, can help with all that.
The best maternity underwear will be the pair you won't know you're wearing, from first thing in the morning as you take your prenatal vitamins to relaxing on the sofa with your favourite pregnancy book at the end of the day. They'll accommodate your changing shape all through pregnancy right up to labour (trust us, the last thing you want at that time is a pair of uncomfortable pants digging in, riding up or getting in the way of your TENS machine).
Equally, after birth, you’ll need knickers that have plenty of room for pads, are roomy and won’t irritate or cut in anywhere. If you’ve had a C-section you’ll also want pants that won’t rub on your wound as it heals. Disposable maternity underwear is available but often isn’t all that comfy, so some postpartum pants that wash well might be worth the investment. Whether you’re an under-the-bump woman or want some big knickers that would make Bridget Jones blush, we’ve got you (and your bump) covered. As home to the largest online network of UK parents, Mumsnet users have seen (and worn) it all when it comes to all things maternity-related, and just as we have for our guides to the best parenting books and top-rated pregnancy tests, we've ranked the best maternity underwear based on the say so of our second-to-none network of mums in the know.
Here is the best maternity underwear 2024.
The best maternity underwear: at a glance
Overall best maternity underwear: Intimate Portal Under the Bump maternity knickers | £25
Best value maternity underwear: HBSelect Under the Bump maternity briefs | £17
Best shorts style maternity pants: JoJo Maman Bébé maternity shorts | £15
Best maternity pants for after a C-section: M&S Cotton Rich Full Briefs | £8
Best plus size maternity pants: NBB Adjustable Maternity Underwear | £34
Best leak-proof maternity pants: Sainsbury's Love Luna Lady Leaks Black Maternity Pants | £12
Best maternity pants for after birth: Kindred Bravely postpartum underwear high waist | £36
Best maternity underwear for support: Natori Women’s Bliss Perfection maternity briefs | £22
Best novelty maternity underwear: Cotton Whisper 3-pack over-the-bump maternity pants | £13
Best breathable maternity underwear: Manci bamboo over-the-bump maternity pants | £27
1. Best maternity underwear: Intimate Portal Under the Bump maternity knickers
Price on writing: From £25 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Pack size: Six | Knicker style: Under bump briefs | Sizes: 10 - 18 | Materials: 95% refined cotton, 5% spandex. Crotch Inner Lining: 100% cotton
What we love
High cotton content means more breathability
Good range of colourways
What to know
Pricier than they used to be
What Mumsnet users say
“These are awesome. I’ve worn them since 20 weeks. I’m now 35 weeks.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user PetaO)
Our verdict
Rating: 5/5
These six-packs of maternity knickers are super-comfy and come in a great range of colours including plain black. They’re made from a lovely soft fabric and have excellent ‘bum coverage’ with no VPL. (Who wants ‘skimpy’ at this time of life, after all?) They are, however, cut nice and low in the front so they sit easily under your bump and won't get in the way when it comes to applying your favourite stretch mark cream.
They claim to be suitable to wear with a C-section wound, but personally we might go for over-the-bump styles to be sure. They feature a crossover style at the front which allows for more give and prevents the elastic digging in under your belly - comfort to rival even your favourite maternity pyjamas as you sink back into your pregnancy pillow at the end of the day.
We love the range of patterns and styles available, so many maternity knickers are just a bit boring. And we liked the fact that the gusset is only lightly coloured so that you’d notice any spotting or the start of a show later in pregnancy.
2. Best value maternity underwear: HBSelect Under the Bump maternity briefs
Price on writing: £17 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Pack size: Six | Knicker style: Under bump briefs | Sizes: S - XL | Materials: 95% refined cotton and 5% spandex. Crotch Lining: 100% breathable cotton
What we love
Good range of colourways
Super comfy and easy to wear after birth too
What to know
Cold wash only
What Mumsnet users say
"I posted a very similar thread a few weeks ago and had these suggested, and they are great. They're under the bump but don't bother your section scar." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Galaxyrippleforever)
Our verdict
Rating: 5/5
These are very similar in design to the Intimate Portal pants, above and offer good value for money considering many reviewers report they've continued wearing them for years after hanging up the rest of their maternity clothes.
They don’t have the same sort of pretty patterns but the colours are still attractive and they have the same lightly coloured gusset for peace of mind so you can see any spotting or discolouration immediately. They also have the soft ‘crossover’ style at the front that makes them one of the comfiest under-the-bump styles to wear. They're also comfy enough to exercise in - pop them on under your best maternity leggings, crack out your birthing ball and bounce away!
3. Best shorts style maternity pants: JoJo Maman Bébé maternity shorts
Price on writing: £15 for three | Buy now from JoJo Maman Bébé
Key specs
Pack size: Three | Knicker style: Under bump boy shorts | Sizes: S - L | Materials: 95% cotton, 5% elastane
What we love
Lace detailing gives them a more luxurious feel
What to know
Shorts style can ride up
What Mumsnet users say
“I was just wearing briefs in a few sizes up… but then I bought a pair of the JoJo Maman Bebe ones and they are soooo much better!” (Vetted by Mumsnet user GinIsIn)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
Stretchy shorts in soft cotton that will appeal to anyone who likes a boy shorts style of knicker (and for those also on the hunt for decent maternity bras as well, JoJo has a good range of matching options). These are designed to be gentle and feel comfortable on delicate skin and the pretty lace detailing is all on the thigh so it won’t irritate even the most irritable of bumps. Reviews suggest they are cut slightly on the small side so you might want to size up.
Although they're a little pricey compared to larger multipack options, JoJo are renowned for high-quality maternity wear (which is why they top our listings for the best maternity jeans as well) and have a great range of baby clothing too if you're also on the hunt for baby gifts.
4. Best maternity pants for after a C-section: M&S Cotton Rich Full Briefs
Price on writing: £8 | Buy now from M&S
Key specs
Pack size: Three | Knicker style: Full briefs | Sizes: 6 - 28 | Materials: 90% cotton, 10% elastane
What we love
Reasonably priced
Huge range of sizes
Will last long after pregnancy
What to know
Not specifically designed as maternity underwear
What Mumsnet users say
"Massive M&S full briefs! I remember sending my mum out to get some as my normal short style ones were agony to wear. My scar was quiet uncomfortable and itchy for a while, I think I wore them for about a year afterwards!" (Recommended by Mumsnet user LouLou198)
"You need full briefs from M&S, at least two sizes up. I am still in mine a year post partum. They're too darn comfy." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user MySoCalledStrife)
Our verdict
Rating: 5/5
Who says maternity underwear can't just mean really big pants? Certainly when it comes to the best knickers following a C-section, many a Mumsnetter swear by these full, cotton rich briefs from M&S. Breathable enough to allow the air to circulate around your scar and high-waisted enough not to sit on your wound, these full briefs from M&S certainly fit the brief (sorry!) for comfy, big pants.
Sure, they're not going to be winning many style awards but they are fully able to accommodate a maternity pad and have enough give to be suitable for wear while your bump is growing as well as afterwards.
Read next: Pregnancy can come with all sorts of unwanted side-effects, from piles to acne. Fear not, our guides to the best haemorrhoid cream and top-rated skincare for pregnancy has got you covered (literally).
5. Best plus size maternity pants: NBB Adjustable Maternity Underwear
Price on writing: From £34 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Pack size: Four | Knicker style: Over bump briefs | Sizes: S - 3XL | Materials: 100% cotton
What we love
Comes in four different colourways
Breathable
What to know
Some reviewers reported the waistband didn't have much give
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
These maternity pants go up to an XXXL and are great for bigger bumps, as they include an integrated light support band that just hugs your bump and helps relieve a bit of the pressure the weight of your baby and your bump (and if you do need extra help there, check out our guide to the best pregnancy support belt). They give lots of coverage and don’t seem to slip or roll down at all. The stretchable, breathable cotton is super soft on sensitive pregnant skin.
6. Best leak-proof maternity pants: Sainsbury's Love Luna Lady Leaks Black Maternity Pants
Price on writing: £12 | Buy now from Sainsbury's
Key specs
Pack size: One | Knicker style: Under bump briefs | Sizes: 8 - 16 | Materials: 95% cotton, 5% elastane; Gusset: 100% polyseter; Padding: 84% cotton, 16% polyester
What we love
Comes with in-built absorbency for bladder leaks or discharge
Anti-odour and antibacterial
What to know
Some reviewers reported they felt bulkier than other period style underwear
What Mumsnet users say
"I bought a pair of Love Luna from Sainsbury's... I've found them very comfy, and they stay feeling dry." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user PolkadotsAndMoonbeams)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
Love Luna makes period pants, which you might think you won’t need during pregnancy or in the weeks after birth, but actually they can be really handy. Lots of women find they have a lot more vaginal mucus when pregnant, and so need to wear a pad, and that’s before you get to the issue of a baby putting pressure on your bladder. For the same reasons, they’re a good option for after the birth, too. (And if you do find postnatal incontinence is becoming a problem, we've also got a guide to the best pelvic floor trainer according to Mumsnet users in the know).
These are period pants designed specially for maternity and have a crossover front, sealed seams for comfort and a padded gusset that extends past where a pad would sit so it catches any leaks. The gusset also has a waterproof layer and an antibacterial and anti-odour layer that lasts for at least 50 washes.
Related: Looking for the perfect gift for the newest mum in your life? Read our guide to the best gifts for new mums according to the Mumsnet users who've received them all.
7. Best maternity pants for after birth: Kindred Bravely postpartum underwear high waist
Price on writing: From £36.26 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Pack size: Five | Knicker style: Full briefs | Sizes: S - XXL | Materials: 95% rayon, 5% spandex; Gusset: 100% cotton
What we love
Lace band is gentle on midriff
Creates a smooth silhouette
What to know
Sizing doesn't go beyond 16
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
Kindred Bravely make great maternity bras, too, so it stands to reason that they know a lot about women’s bodies. Made from super-soft fabric, these postpartum pants come up high to your belly button, so your C-section wound isn’t irritated or rubbed by a waistband and your belly feels a bit supported and enclosed.
The pretty lace band doesn’t pinch or dig in but adds a pretty touch that makes you feel a bit less ‘medical’, particularly important after a spell in hospital. The pants offer really full coverage, giving you that feeling of comfort and support, and create a slightly smoother silhouette too, with no rumpling, crumpling or sagging.
Read next: Expecting twins? Discover more about what to buy for twins according to our huge network of Mumsnet twin parents.
8. Best maternity underwear for support: Natori Women’s Bliss Perfection maternity briefs
Price on writing: From £21.75 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Pack size: One | Knicker style: Over bump full panel briefs | Sizes: S - XL | Materials: 62% nylon, 38% spandex; Lace: 85% nylon, 15% spandex; Gusset: 100% cotton
What we love
Full coverage helps smooth silhouette and has no VPL
Not too restrictive
What to know
Pricey
Hand wash only
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
These Natori briefs are bump support and a pair of pants in one. If you find you need to wear a bump band every day to help you feel comfortable, a hybrid style like this does away with the need for multiple layers (and constantly fiddling with your clothes to stop your belly band rolling up or your knickers rolling down).
The central panel gently but firmly ‘holds’ your bump without constricting at all, to help prevent aches and pains in your back and belly. These offer great all-round coverage and feel really soft and cosy to wear. Our only complaint would be that they are hand wash only, which feels like added faff at a time when you’ve quite enough to do. But if you’re struggling with pregnancy aches and pains, they’re worth it.
Read next: Trying for a baby but unsure when the best days are to try? We've got you covered with our pick of the best ovulation test options.
9. Best novelty maternity underwear: Cotton Whisper 3-pack over-the-bump maternity pants
Price on writing: £13 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Pack size: Three | Knicker style: Over bump full briefs | Sizes: S - 3XL | Materials: 95% cotton, 5% spandex
What we love
Fun, quirky patterns
Grows with bump
What to know
Design might show through tops with thinner fabric
What Mumsnet users say
"After already having had two C-sections, normal knickers really irritated my scar as my bump grew. I loved the maternity knickers tbh - it was winter and they completely covered my bump. Cosy!" (Advice from Mumsnetter CherryMaple)
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
Looking for some pants with a sense of humour? These should do the trick. They have a high waist that comes right up over the bump, and they can be adjusted in case you need to let them out a little as you grow. Each of the three pairs in the pack has a slightly different emoji style face on the front panel to turn your bump into a happy smile and with their soft fabric and roomy style there’s no reason why your bump wouldn’t be very happy indeed in these.
10. Best breathable maternity underwear: Manci bamboo over-the-bump maternity pants
Price on writing: £27 for three | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Pack size: Three | Knicker style: Over bump ultra high waist pants | Sizes: M, L | Materials: 75% bamboo fibre, 17% polyamide, 8% elastane
What we love
Comfortable
Helps keep you cool
Smoothing effect
What to know
Sizing goes by weight in lbs and kg
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
Prone to feeling a bit overheated in pregnancy? These bamboo undies might help. Bamboo is naturally soft and breathable, helping to keep you cooler, while still offering plenty of support. The top of these pants comes right up, enclosing your whole bump and they have plenty of stretch to accommodate your body as it grows, but they feel beautifully light to wear.
How to find the best and the comfiest maternity underwear for you
Knowing your under-the-bump from your over-the-bump and your boy cuts from your briefs is a lot to learn. Because we know you’ve got enough on your plate already we’ve put on our big girl pants on your behalf and tracked down the best maternity knickers on the market, as well as summarising how to find the best pregnancy pants for you. Are you sitting comfortably? Well if you’re not, just read on…
Do you really need maternity underwear?
One pair of knickers is basically the same as another pair of knickers, right? Well, in your first trimester that might well be the case, but as your bump grows you might find you want some pants that pack more of a pregnancy punch. Maternity underwear accommodates your bump, either sitting underneath it or coming up over the bump, so the pants are more comfortable than your average pair of non-pregnancy knickers, and they can offer a bit of support. They’re also usually made from soft, comfy material with no scratchy lace or bits that might rub sensitive pregnancy skin.
After your baby’s born, you might also be glad of something a little more, um, ‘capacious’ than your average undies to house those giant post-partum pads, give a bit of support to your belly as it deflates, and maybe also to take into account a C-section wound as it starts to heal. If really aren't keen on maternity styles, many a Mumsnetter recommends plumping for large cotton undies from M&S - this pack of three comes in under £10 and are a nice, leak-hiding black.
What are the different types of maternity underwear?
The two basic types are under-the-bump and over-the-bump. Which you go for depends entirely on which you find most comfortable. If you’ve always been a big knickers sort of woman, you might feel more ‘enclosed’ in an over-the-bump style, They also offer a bit more support if your bump is huge, as well as warmth!
If you generally are used to something a bit skimpier you might prefer your pants to sit beneath your bump. If you have sensitive skin on your belly, these can be a better bet, too, and if you get very hot, skimpier knickers won’t contribute to your inner thermostat going on the blink. Obviously, you don’t have to nail your colours to the mast though. You might like to try a few of each. Additionally, there are other styles such as maternity thongs and boy shorts styles.
What to look for in maternity underwear
Other than the style and design you want, you might want to look for seamless pants that will sit more smoothly; breathable materials that will help keep you cool and let the air circulate a bit around your nether regions; and features like pockets to hold a pad. A nice wide band, rather than skinny elastic will stop them digging in, and look for comfort bands around the leg holes, too.
Can tight underwear hurt my baby?
It’s enormously unlikely and not something you need to lose sleep over. However, really tight undies can contribute to thrush as well as heartburn, and if it’s very tight you can end up with circulatory problems, which are all things that won’t make you feel great and could eventually have knock-on effects for your baby as a result.
What underwear is best when pregnant?
Finding a style that suits you is the most important thing, but if we had to pick just one, we’d go for Intimate Portal’s under-the-bump maternity knickers. They come in a six-pack in a range of colours and have a crossover belly band that sits softly under your bump. They’re super soft and completely VPL-free, too, which is why they scored the highest on our round up.
How we chose our recommendations
Before beginning our research we checked in with the experts at the NCT to see what advice they gave about buying the best maternity underwear. Armed with that knowledge we scoured review sites and online stores in search of bestsellers and those knickers that had won awards and accolades. We also consulted the Mumsnet Talk boards to find out which maternity underwear impressed, and which they thought were a bum deal. We collated all that information to form a long list of the best maternity knickers on the market and then curated that list to create our top 10, which we think offers something for everyone.
Why you should trust us
Mumsnet has been helping parents make their lives easier since 2000 and, in those years, we’ve seen, tried and reviewed thousands of products. Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.If you decided to buy something that we recommended as a result of our research, we usually (not always) get paid affiliate commission from the retailer where you make a purchase. But, if you weren't impressed with the product and decided to return it, we wouldn't make a penny.
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About the author
Mum-of-three Jenny Wonnacott is a Content Editor for Mumsnet, specialising in writing, editing and optimising pregnancy care and child play content.
Before joining the content team at Mumsnet, Jenny worked as a journalist for newspapers, radio, TV and b2b trades magazines for over a decade. She is also a bestselling sci-fi author (writing as J M Briscoe) and parenting blogger.
As a parent of three primary school-aged children, Jenny is passionate about making Mumsetters' lives easier through rigorous research of all items recommended in buyers' guides such as these, as well as product reviews and expert advice on all things pregnancy and child play related.