byBlake Bakkila
Fact-Checked by Erin Cavoto
| January 26, 2024
What to Expect selects products based on real-life testing conducted by staff, contributors and members our user community, as well as independent research and expert feedback; learn more about our review process. Prices and details are accurate as of the published date. We may earn commissions from shopping links.
Quick Summary
The best postpartum clothing is comfortable for your body as it heals and functional to make nursing and pumping easier, according to moms in the What to Expect community.
Best Postpartum Clothes
Best Postpartum Leggings
Lululemon Align Super-High-Rise Pant
$98
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Best Postpartum Sweatpants
Stars Above Women's Perfectly Cozy Jogger Pants
$
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Best Postpartum Jeans
Blanqi Denim Postpartum Support Skinny Jeans
$128
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Best Postpartum Dress
OUGES Women’s Sleeveless Nursing Gown
$28
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Best Postpartum Jumpsuit
Hatch Collection The 24/7 Feeding Jumpsuit
$128
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Best Postpartum Pajamas
Stars Above Women's Beautifully Soft Pajama Set
$28
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Best Postpartum Sweatshirt
Smallshow Women's Fleece Maternity Nursing Sweatshirt
$40
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Best Postpartum T-Shirt
Ekouaer Women’s Nursing Tops
$40 for three
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Best Postpartum Blouse
Madewell Signature Poplin Oversized Shirt
$85
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Best Postpartum Long Sleeve
Bearsland Women's Long Sleeve Breastfeeding Shirts
$40 for three
Learn More
Best Postpartum Tank
Bravado Designs Women's Seamless Classic Nursing Cami
$39
Learn More
Amazon
Best Postpartum Sweater
Seraphine Charcoal Cotton Lift Up Maternity & Nursing Sweater
$75
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Best Postpartum Belly Wrap
Belly Bandit B.F.F. Postpartum Belly Wrap
$80
Learn More
Amazon
Best Postpartum Bra
Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra
$52
Learn More
Amazon
Best Postpartum Underwear
Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Underwear
$36 for 5
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Amazon
Reporting live from the trenches of new motherhood, I can confidently tell you that my biggest priority when it comes to buying postpartum clothing is one thing: comfort. I toggle between my trusty Lululemon Align leggings during the day andTarget pajamas at night, both of which are helpful for navigating uncomfortable postpartum symptoms, like postpartum bleedingornight sweats, as well askeeping up with diaper changes.
Building a postpartum wardrobe is as important as building a pregnancy wardrobe. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to throw out everything in your closet and spend a ton of money. But there are a few postpartum clothing essentials — a bra that makes nursing or pumping a little easier, a pair of leggings that offer enough room for postpartum pads —that every new mom should own. Remember: Your body is in recovery mode. The best postpartum clothing will not only provide some comfort as you recover, but will help you feel more put together during a time with a lot of chaos and uncertainty. And yes, even a pair of sweatpants can help you feel your best.
How we chose the best postpartum clothes
As a first-time mom who’s two months postpartum, I’ve recently done a lot of shopping to find postpartum clothes that are comfortable and cute enough to wear out of the house. But every postpartum body and experience is different, and each new mom has different needs she needs from her postpartum clothes. A mom who underwent a C-section, for example, may prioritize looser clothing that won’t put pressure on her incision. Because of this, I also turned to several friends who are new moms and What to Expect community members to see what features they prioritize in postpartum clothing. Overwhelmingly, new moms agree that postpartum clothes should be:
- Comfortable
- Supportive
- Functional, especially when it comes to clothing that helps with nursing and pumping
- Versatile, especially items that can be used both during pregnancy and after the postpartum period
With this criteria in mind, I narrowed down the hundreds of recommendations to a curated compilation of postpartum clothing moms say they practically lived in during the first few weeks and months after welcoming their babies.
Why Trust Us?
What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.
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Best Postpartum Leggings
Lululemon Align Super-High-Rise Pant
Photo credit: Lululemon
Buying Option
Pros
- Super soft
- Grow with your belly
Cons
- Pricey
Material: 81% nylon, 19% Lycra elastane
Size range: 0-20
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
It's no secret that What to Expect moms' love Lululemon’s non-maternity maternity leggings— especially since they’re ideal for postpartum life, too. The light compression from the high-rise panel gives you some belly support without feeling constricted, and the stretchy, buttery-soft material feels gentle against your skin. Although they are pricier than most other leggings, Lululemon Aligns are one of those tried-and-true clothing items moms say that they wear for years. Note that while many moms report that they were able to wear their pre-pregnancy, others recommend sizing up for a more comfortable fit.
Community Reviews
HotMessMamax2
"They’re pricey, but I wore them all through pregnancy and they didn’t stretch out even at the very end, I’m wearing the same pair I wore into my 39 week appt currently and my stomach is back to how it normally is outside of pregnancy at almost 3 weeks pp and they don’t fit any different."
durryplum
"Lululemon align were my go to postpartum and now still wearing them at 35 weeks pregnant with #2. The waistband is quite wide so they sit really comfortably on your belly without digging in. Expensive, but so worth it in my opinion."
Katelenanne
"I wore my regular size aligns (4) throughout my whole pregnancy and postpartum. They’re amazing."
Best Postpartum Sweatpants
Stars Above Women's Perfectly Cozy Jogger Pants
Photo credit: Target
Buying Option
Pros
- Cozy yet lightweight
- Wash well
Cons
- Better for around the house
Material: 80% rayon, 17% polyester, 3% spandex
Size range: XS-4X
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
Deemed one of our favorite pairs ofmaternity sweatpants, thesejoggers from Target's popular Stars Above line are also a great addition to your postpartum wardrobe. Made of a rayon-polyester blend with a touch of spandex, they’re designed to stretch, so they’ll comfortably accommodate your postpartum belly without feeling too tight. The drawstring waistband also helps with that, allowing you to find the right fit as your body changes. Plus, they’re super cozy. Karen Sly, What to Expect's Finance Director, says these “kept me really warm during middle of the night feedings throughout the winter.”
Also good: These sweats have generous pockets, which are great for storing anything you might need on-hand, like a small burp cloth or your phone.
Community Reviews
KayThe2021
"So stretchy, so soft, amazing."
mom2anton
"I am living in...stars above joggers now."
Best Postpartum Jeans
Blanqi Denim Postpartum Support Skinny Jeans
Photo credit: Blanqi
Buying Option
Pros
- Great transitional item
- Extra comfort from hidden belly compression panel
Cons
- Band was too tight for some moms
Material: 55% cotton, 20% lyocell, 23% polyester, 2% spandex
Size range: 0-14
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
Jeans may not cross your mind when you think of postpartum clothes. But there may be times — like returning to an office or going out to dinner — where something a little more formula than leggings is required. Although they’re on the pricier side, moms in the What to Expect Community rave about Blanqi's skinny jeans. Designed specifically for postpartum moms, these extra stretchy jeans come with a built-in belly panel for added comfort and, as many moms notes, extra support. They’re extremely easy to pull on, thanks to both the generous stretch and the zipperless fly, so they’ll be gentle on your still-healing body. Note that while many found the panel to be comfy, some said it was on the tighter side. You should measure yourself using Blanqi’s size guide to get the right fit.
Community Reviews
zoe206
"Last time I got some postpartum jeans from blanqi and they were exactly what I needed until I could get back in regular jeans!"
Unknown Username
"I bought the blanqi postpartum jeans after my 2nd and they made me feel better about jeans again. They run a little large so I was able to go a size down from my 'new size.'"
dp2418
"Blanqi postpartum jeans! I got a few pairs and love them."
Best Postpartum Dress
OUGES Women’s Sleeveless Nursing Gown
Photo credit: Amazon
Pros
- Great price
- Comes in several colors
Cons
- Not the highest quality fabric
Material: 95% rayon, 5% spandex
Size range: S-XXL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
Perfect to wear around the house or at a social function, theOUGES nursing dress is a go-to choice for many What to Expect moms. (In fact, many started wearing this dress before baby arrived, finding it comfortable enough for their pregnant bodies, too.) The top of this stretchy rayon dress is double layered, so you can lift up the fabric to nurse or pump. Plus, the empire waist design gives the dress a more fitted look without being too tight. And if your baby arrives in the cooler months, you can buy the long-sleeve style. Hand washing is recommended, but many say it holds up fine to the delicate setting on a washer.
Community Reviews
jld1130
"I got the sleeveless option and thought could throw sweater over if needed. Its even cute enough to wear when my baby no longer nurses!"
KDavis17660
"I have a wedding in mid- August and they said we could dress more casual. I opted for this dress because it’s easy enough to pop a boob out to nurse."
112020mama
"have a few dresses from this brand/style. always found them comfortable to nurse in, easy to access the boob. nice quality items"
Best Postpartum Jumpsuit
Hatch Collection The 24/7 Feeding Jumpsuit
Photo credit: Hatch Collection
Buying Option
Pros
- Buttons make nursing easier
- Soft and high-quality fabric
Cons
- Sizes sell out quickly
- Limited size options
Material: 100% cotton
Size range:XS-L
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
When you're caring for a newborn, you shouldn’t have to worry about looking put together when guests arrive to meet the baby. But, alas, many moms do. Enter the Hatch Collection 24/7 Feeding Jumpsuit, a functional item that makes you feel fashionable even if you haven’t showered in days.
The all-cotton jumpsuit is incredibly soft and its baggy fit will feel so soothing for your recovering body. It also features strategically located buttons for easy nursing or pumping access, and large front pockets that can hold your phone or a pacifier. And, like most items from Hatch, it's made to work for pregnancy and postpartum, making it well worth the $128 price tag.
Some moms do feel the fabric is a bit thin, but most love it as an all-in-one lightweight outfit.
Community Reviews
ochapman712
"I also splurged on a jumpsuit from hatch I could live in!"
Sully111
"I'm planning to wear this home from the hospital, and then wear it non stop postpartum! It looks both comfy and easy for breastfeeding!"
Best Postpartum Pajamas
Stars Above Women's Beautifully Soft Pajama Set
Photo credit: Target
Buying Option
Pros
- Super soft material
- Affordable
- Easy nursing access
Cons
- Some said buttons were difficult to unbutton
Material: 95% modal, 5% spandex
Size range: XS-4X
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
Though theStars Above pajamas aren’t designed specifically for postpartum wear, they are a staple of my postpartum wardrobe — and many other moms in the What to Expect community agree. The modal and spandex material is extremely soft and has just the right amount of stretch with the right amount of stretch, both of which are essential for postpartum comfort. The drawstring waist makes it easy to adjust the waistband and relieve pressure from your body. Finally, the top features button closures for easy nursing access, which you especially want at night.
Community Reviews
deannak1989
"I HIGHLY recommend these and pants made by this brand!! Soo comfy!"
morganbailey94
"So soft and comfy! And still fit my growing belly!"
mamabearhtx
"this is what I wore last birth and it was perfect, comfy, easy to breastfeed and cover up."
mama12623
"They are super soft and have a button up top, which makes them perfect for breastfeeding. They aren’t technically maternity though, but I have gotten away with ordering a size or two up from my usual and they still fit me at 34 weeks."
Best Postpartum Sweatshirt
Smallshow Women's Fleece Maternity Nursing Sweatshirt
Photo credit: Amazon
Pros
- Keeps you warm while nursing
- Thick but not bulky
Cons
- Some say it's hard to use zippers with one hand
Material: 60% polyester, 36% cotton, 4% spandex
Size range: S-XXL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
You'd never guessthis Smallshow sweatshirt was made for nursing. With concealed zippers on the sides, you simply unzip and pull the material to the side to access your breast. The fleece-lined design is a cozy addition to your wardrobe, and allows you to stay warm because you don’t have to remove layers at every feeding, especially those middle-of-the-night ones. Other helpful features include a drawstring hood for a better fit and a huge front pocket to hold your phone, a pacifier or burp cloth.
The biggest drawback is that moms say it’s hard to undo the zippers with one hand, which is less than ideal when you’re holding a hungry baby.
Community Reviews
tlh1015
"I just got this nursing sweater off Amazon, and it's amazing! I live in a cold weather state and was also getting sick of getting cold lifting my shirt up to nurse, and I freaking love this purchase. Super warm so I don't need to wear anything underneath! Comes in lots of color options."
ss508
"I just found this sweatshirt on Amazon that’s breastfeeding friendly and it’s 1/2 the price of the latched momma hoodies and I wanted to share it with you! Our house is always freezing so I was looking for something to wear and it is soooo soft and cozy and the zippers fit great!"
Best Postpartum T-Shirt
Ekouaer Women’s Nursing Tops
Photo credit: Amazon
Pros
- Stretchy
- Pull-aside nursing panel
- Multi-pack
Cons
- Some didn’t like the way the material hugged their belly
Material: 95% rayon, 5% spandex
Size range: S-XXL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
What to Expect moms highly recommend Ekouaer, and one of their favorite postpartum items is this double-layer T-shirt. These nursing are designed with a double layer so moms can simply lift the fabric to breastfeed or pump. Moms say this makes it easy to discreetly nurse in public, as they don’t have to fumble with clips or buttons. Available in packs of three, these nursing shirts have a more affordable price point than most and come in a wide range of colors.
Community Reviews
trwp22
"I love these! They’re really comfortable and super easy access. I was hesitant about buying something that’s temporary, but these are totally worth it!"
Best Postpartum Blouse
Madewell Signature Poplin Oversized Shirt
Photo credit: Madewell
Buying Option
Pros
- Buttons help with nursing
- Oversized look is more comfortable
Cons
- Might be difficult to unbutton one-handed
Material:100% cotton
Size range: XXS-XXL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
Althoughthis Madewell blouse isn’t technically designed for postpartum moms, it’s a favorite among What to Expect community members because of its versatility. Not only does the button-up design make it a nursing-friendly option, but the oversized fit is extra comfortable on postpartum bodies. Another thing that makes it comfortable: the 100-percent cotton fabric. Not to mention it elevates just about anything in your closet, from a basic dress to your favorite pair of leggings.
Community Reviews
MayorCutie918
"I just wear a nursing tank under a Madewell button down most days that I leave the house."
Best Postpartum Long Sleeve
Bearsland Women's Long Sleeve Breastfeeding Shirts
Photo credit: Amazon
Pros
- Many colors and patterns
- Easy lift-up nursing panel
- Multi-pack
Cons
- Some say it was thinner than expected
Material: 50% rayon, 46% polyester, 4% spandex
Size range: S-XL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
If you live in an area with cooler temperatures, a few layering items are essential. TheseBearsland long-sleeve shirts have an extra panel of fabric at the waistline to not only keep you warm, but allow you quick and easy access when nursing. Each pack comes with three shirts, making it a great value at less than $15 each top. Moms also appreciate that there are several color combinations to choose from, so you can switch up your look. It's recommended that you size up or even go up two sizes if you want an oversized look.
Community Reviews
Momma0904
"The Bearsland brand on Amazon is solid for the price. It even fits during maternity."
Best Postpartum Tank
Bravado Designs Women's Seamless Classic Nursing Cami
Photo credit: Bravado Designs
Buying Option
Amazon
Nordstrom
Walmart
Pros
- Easy clip-down nursing access
- Very stretchy
Cons
- Some say it doesn't support all bust sizes
Material: 93% nylon, 7% spandex
Size range: S-XXL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
TheseBravado Designs camis are so comfortable and, thanks to the built-in shelf bra, I often wear them instead of a nursing bra. Made of nylon and spandex, the material has four-way stretch to ensure it never feels too tonight on your body. I appreciate that the tank top goes past my stomach for full coverage and doesn’t ride up, making it great for layering. I also find the clips are easy to maneuver with one hand, which is ideal for nursing.
Community Reviews
AshGSHT
"Bravado designs has amazing nursing tanks for us generously endowed mamas. You can get them from Amazon or directly from Bravado website. Their nursing bras are also worth checking out…These are my favorites. I personally wouldn’t want to be without them."
Best Postpartum Sweater
Seraphine Charcoal Cotton Lift Up Maternity & Nursing Sweater
Photo credit: Seraphine
Buying Option
Pros
- Easy lift-up nursing panel
- Soft cotton
Cons
- Pricey
Materials: 100% cotton
Size range: XS-XXL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
Many What to Expect moms recommend Seraphine for their wide range of long-lasting, nursing-friendly clothing. This sweater, for instance, is made of super-soft cotton and features a simple lift-up nursing panel for easy feedings or pumping. The relaxed fit is not only stylish, but ensures it won’t put any pressure on your belly during the postpartum period.
Community Reviews
mommy-May-I
“I have tried every brand of nursing-friendly clothes I believe. My whole wardrobe is for nursing as I've been breastfeeding over 2 and a half years straight... seraphine maternity is expensive but has a whole nursing section you can tell its high quality and has lasted me more than one baby.”
xCK
“I wore a lot of Seraphine clothes in my first pregnancy and found the tops fab to transition to breast feeding. I wore more ASOS maternity second time around although they also stock Seraphine. The quality for Seraphine was good. The tops lasted well. I found the clothes came up big.”
Best Postpartum Belly Wrap
Belly Bandit B.F.F. Postpartum Belly Wrap
Photo credit: Belly Bandit
Buying Option
Amazon
Nordstrom
Belly Bandit
Pros
- Highly adjustable
- C-section-friendly
- May be eligible for insurance reimbursem*nt
Cons
- Not the softest structure
Material: 57% modal, 38% tencel, 5% spandex
Size range: XS-XL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
If you're struggling with back pain, postpartum garments like belly bands or wraps can provide the support your core muscles need after pregnancy. Moms love theBelly Bandit B.F.F. Postpartum Belly Wrap because it provides tons of support by applying targeted compression to your stomach, waist and hips. This compression works to support and stabilize muscles that may have weakened during pregnancy, so it’s a great piece to wear if you’re starting light exercise or movement. There are two panels that you can adjust to get the right fit and tightness for your body. The material also features soft fabrics like modal and tencel, so it should feel gentle against your skin. Some moms felt that this wrap was uncomfortable to sit in, however, and that it was bulky under their tops.
Community Reviews
cbpeterson
"I loved my belly bandit...I really liked the back support. My low back was in pain after birth so that helped a lot."
muleahcar
"I am all about the abdominal binder! My hospital gives me one and it’s big enough to fit immediately post op when you’re still basically pregnant size. It’s a huge help with getting around and managing pain. I wore that for about two weeks and by the Velcro was all torn up and I had shrunk more, so I was ready for the one I got from Belly Bandit, which I really like. It allows you to really tighten it down by using the two tabs."
Best Postpartum Bra
Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra
Photo credit: Kindred Bravely
Buying Option
Amazon
Target
Kindred Bravely
Pros
- Soft material
- Works with a variety of pump flanges
- Easy clip-down nursing access
Cons
- Some say it runs small
Material: 84% nylon, 16% spandex
Size range: S-3X; Available in: Regular (Cup sizes B-D), Busty (Cup sizes E-H), Super Busty (Cup sizes I-K)
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
Deemed the best nursing bra in the What to Expect Mom Must-Have Awards, theKindred Bravely Sublime Pumping and Nursing Bra is a must-have for any mom — even those who aren’t nursing. Made of soft nylon and stretchy spandex, this wire-free bra feels comfortable on your tender breast and offers plenty of support without being too tight. The somewhat ruched fabric is flexible and is great for accommodating larger busts, especially if you opt for their Busty or Super Busty sizes. Meanwhile, the clip-down design offers easy access for nursing or inserting your pump flanges.
Community Reviews
ExpectingSpring
"I still wear my kindred bravely nursing/pumping bras to work everyday and I stopped breastfeeding a year and a half ago. I have three in rotation now and bought a fourth one for this upcoming baby."
Blueberry65
"...preferred kindred bravely pumping bras when I went back to work. I liked having everything all in one rather than putting a pumping bra over. The kindred bravely ones have A LOT of material, but I felt comfortable with everything all together."
Best Postpartum Underwear
Kindred Bravely High Waist Postpartum Underwear
Photo credit: Kindred Bravely
Buying Option
Amazon
Target
Kindred Bravely
Pros
- Comfortable high-waisted design doesn’t rub
- Soft and stretchy material
- Cute color options
Cons
- Some say the waistband rolls down
Material: 95% rayon, 5% spandex (excluding lace) for the body; 100% cotton for the gusset
Size range: S-XL
Why We Love it
Community Reviews
Why We Love It
After you've moved on from the mesh underwear you get at the hospital, you may want to opt for Kindred Bravely’s high-waisted postpartum underwear. Another favorite pick from this popular brand, these postpartum underwear are stretchy to accommodate your changing belly and to fit even thick postpartum pads. Despite the stretch, moms praise these panties for maintaining their shape even after frequent use and washing. They’re especially great for those recovering from a C-section since the band won’t fall on your incision, but their comfortable fit makes them an overall favorite.
Community Reviews
kerilynnn
“I love the Kindred Bravely postpartum underwear, got them for my last birth and have worn them since then and just got a second set ( I can wear them now at 36 weeks). They’re cute, soft, good coverage and comfy, all the things I care about.”
cupcakemom22
“I love the kindred bravely postpartum underwear. The benefit is they are comfortable and accommodating of large pads. I also don’t worry about ruining them. They are also high waisted in case you need a c-section, which is nice.”
CaffeinatedCindy
“I lived in my kindred bravely underwear. It was very soft and comfortable.”
FAQs
What should I wear after pregnancy?
Your postpartum wardrobe is entirely up to you, but many moms prefer stretchy, soft and comfortable clothing. Oversized tops and pants are usually go-tos, and tops, dresses and bras designed with easy breast access are helpful if you’re nursing or pumping. If you had a C-section, you’ll also want to look for underwear and clothes that won’t irritate your incision scar.
How long will I need to wear postpartum clothes?
Every mom's body is different, so there’s no set rule on how long you'll need postpartum clothes. In fact, some moms love the comfy items they buy for this time so much that they wear them years after welcoming their babies. The most important thing is to look for clothes that can work before, during and after the fourth trimester, so you can get as much wear out of these items as possible.
Where to find postpartum clothes?
There are near-countless retailers offering some of the best postpartum clothing on the market. Some of these stores and brands include:
- Major retailers like Amazon,Target andWalmart which offer a wide array of options for new moms, often at affordable prices and with fast delivery.
- Maternity-specific brands like Blanqi,Kindred Bravely andSeraphine which specialize in items designed for postpartum wear like jeans, underwear and bras, nursing clothes and more.
- Non-maternity brands likeLululemon andMadewell that are What to Expect mom-favorite for buying clothing that works for maternity or postpartum wear, but can be used long after baby arrives, since the clothes are specifically designed for pregnant bodies.
Can I wear maternity clothes postpartum?
Maternity clothes are often worn for the postpartum period as well. You may not want to wear under-the-bump underwear or pants during this time, but over-the-belly styles can add just the right amount of support and comfort new moms need. There are also plenty of bras, pants and more that are recommended for both pregnancy and postpartum.
View Sources
- WhatToExpect.com,Postpartum Sweating, January 2022.
- WhatToExpect.com,Having a C-Section (Cesarean Section), July 2021.
- WhatToExpect.com,Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia), May 2021.
- Cleveland Clinic,Pregnancy: Physical Changes After Delivery, January 2018.
