In my first pregnancy, I gained little weight and my belly was small enough for long enough that I didn't really have to get maternity clothes. So when my second pregnancy came around, I was expecting more of the same. However, all bets were off with this one when, at just the two-month mark, I was finding myself reaching for far-comfier maternity clothes. One item I didn't realize I'd need? Maternity underwear. When I got myself a pair one day (I could no longer take that awful feeling of tight underwear pinching into my skin and belly), I realized that these were a game changer. So if you're on the fence, let me tell you: you need to get yourself a few pairs. Without further ado, here are a few of our favorites. Intimate Portal Under the Bump Maternity Underwear Softest Cotton for All The Comfort This low-rise maternity underwear offers a superb fit for both pregnancy and postpartum.Best OverallFind on Amazon Made from a cotton/spandex blend, this is the perfect pair of underwear for cradling your bump as it grows. Never too tight, with a wide band that will not cut into your belly, this is an incredibly comfortable pair of under-the-belly maternity underwear. In fact, it’s so comfortable, you’ll love wearing it in those early postpartum days when your belly is still round and needs a little extra freedom. Pros: Ultra-comfortable for low carriers Satiny soft cotton/spandex blend Free from toxic chemicals and heavy metals (Oeko-Tex approved and lab-tested) Low rise with soft cross front that won’t irritate C-section incision Cons: Very low cut, so folks who prefer a bit of a higher rise should be aware Kindred Bravely Under The Bump Maternity Underwear Silky Smooth and Ultra-ComfyThe softest, silkiest, and most bump-friendly underwear out there. Runner UpFind on Amazon Featuring an under-the-bump style wear that isn’t ultra-low, this maternity underwear forms a V directly under your rounding belly. With a wider waistband that won’t roll even in those later months when your belly really hangs low, this one offers the ideal rise for an under-belly underwear style. And ladies who have sensitive skin, listen up: these are made from rayon and spandex. Luxurious and almost silk-like in both quality and feel, this underwear will be one of the most comfortable things you can put on your body, bar none. Pros: Soothing crossover style won’t cut into your belly Non-itch material Ultra-breathable Full coverage back Perfectly stretchy fabric (that’s durable) Cons: Can run a bit small, so size up for the best fit SUNNYBUY Women’s High Waist Maternity Underwear Extra Supportive Full-Panel UnderwearOffering extra support where you need it the most, this over-bump underwear helps to hold in that growing belly.Best Over The BumpFind on Amazon As I said, with my first, I didn’t have to bother with maternity underwear. But my second? Oh, heck no. Give me all the maternity underwear, posthaste. Although I’ve never liked the looks of over-the-bump underwear, this style ended up being exactly what my big ol’ belly needed. Like a gentle hug, over-bump underwear gives a little extra support when you need it the most. Especially suitable for women who suffer from low back pain during pregnancy, this underwear gently holds your hips and belly in all the right ways. If you’re debating the need for over-bump underwear, don’t debate long – for women who need that extra support, it’s truly a godsend. Pros: Full coverage in back Fantastic for extra support in early postpartum days as well Breathable fabric that has a bit of stretch Cons: Having tight fabric over your bump can make you feel a bit hot, especially if you’re pregnant during warmer months Motherhood Maternity Hipster 3-Pack Got You CoveredHipster-style maternity underwear for fuller coverage and a comfier fit.Best Hipster-StyleFind on Amazon Not quite an over-bump and not quite an under-bump, this hipster maternity underwear is the perfect middle-ground for women who want comfort and style in their maternity-ware. With an encased elastic band and a cotton/spandex blend, this underwear will be comfortable all day long. And with a little bit of shirring detail in the back, it’s flattering, too. Comfy, cute, and it can be worn postpartum? Sounds like the perfect pair of maternity underwear, no? Pros: Ultra-soft fabric Fabric stretches along with the growth of your belly Durable seams Comfort-fit won’t cut into your skin Cons: Due to the fact that that this one doesn’t have a V-fit in the front, if you carry low, this might not be the most comfortable underwear for you Motherhood Maternity Fold Over Briefs Comfortable and FlatteringThis fold-over style maternity underwear is as flattering as it is comfortable. Best Fold-OverFind on Amazon This underwear offers the best of both worlds. Fully extended, it’ll fit right over your belly. And as your belly grows, you can fold the underwear down, turning it into a comfortable under-belly pair of underwear. The brief style offers full coverage in the back with a flattering fit all around. In fact, this one is so flattering and comfortable, it’ll likely stay in rotation long beyond those early postpartum days. It’s so soft and fits so well that it doesn’t feel or look like maternity-ware. Pros: 3-pack of assorted colors Ideal for postpartum, too Incredibly comfortable for C-section recovery Flattering fit Cons: Tends to run large, so order a size down for a better fit Frequently Asked Questions Over-the-bump or under-the-bump – which is better? There are essentially two styles of underwear out there for pregnancy: over-the-bump and under-the-bump. Over-the-bump underwear offers a bit more support for your belly, while under-the-bump tends to keep you cooler. If you’re unsure, get a few pairs in both styles to see which you prefer. Additionally, you might find that you prefer one style earlier in your pregnancy, and another as you progress. It’s all about preference. What’s the ideal fabric for maternity underwear? One word: breathable. With all the extra hormonal changes going on during pregnancy, things can get a little weird down there. Having breathable underwear ensures you’re comfortable – well, as comfortable as possible anyway. On top of that, non-breathable options may even lead to infections, which is not ideal during normal times, not to mention when you’re pregnant. Additionally, pregnancy can wreak havoc on your skin, rendering it sensitive to nearly everything. There’s nothing worse than breaking out in such a sensitive area, so for that reason, natural, breathable fibers really are best. Cotton fabrics are typically the best in terms of breathability and comfort during pregnancy. Related posts:Powered by SearchIQ The Best Puppy Diapers Read more The Best Dog Mom Sweatshirts Read more The Best Dog Diapers Read more