Maternity Bottoms

Why should you buy maternity pants?

Maternity pants come in really handy, especially during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy when your belly begins to grow much more rapidly than the stretchy waistband on your favourite track pants can. While a pregnant woman might be able to get away with larger-sized, elastic waistband pants for a while, maternity pants are specially designed to fit comfortably over, or under, a pregnancy belly.

Maternity pants are made of materials that won't irritate the skin and some have especially high waists that can be pulled up and over your entire pregnancy belly so they aren't constantly sliding down. The secret fit style adds extra support as well. Other maternity pants, meanwhile, can be positioned neatly under the belly for those who prefer that fit.

What types of maternity pants are available?

There are several types of maternity pants, but you'll most commonly find leggings, jogger, and yoga pants. They come in sizes ranging from extra-small up to extra-large and in colours like black, grey, burgundy, navy, and beige. There are also soft microfiber maternity shorts that function as a maternity lingerie alternative to underwear.

Leggings, made of material like nylon and spandex, offer a seamless and comfortable fit. They usually come with high waists and are ideal for wearing under a dress, tunic, or other long maternity top. Also great for pairing with maternity tops are maternity yoga pants, which are made of stretchy and breathable fabric like polyamide and elastane that can be worn under or over top the belly. This prevents irritation and chafing so pregnant women can relax, or even exercise, while wearing them.

For a more relaxed fit, there are jogger pants, which are usually made from material like cotton and polyester with an elastic waistband, drawstring, cuffed ankles, and pockets. Position them as you see fit then tie the drawstring to keep them in place.

What should you consider when choosing maternity pants?

When selecting maternity pants, note that sizing is in line with standard women's clothing sizes. So, if you are usually a small then small-sized maternity pants will fit. If you're usually a size 10, you'd opt for size 10. And so on.

While there are benefits to wearing high-rise waisted pants that fit over the belly, some women prefer being able to position the waistband lower. Note that most high-waisted maternity pants can be folded over as well if you prefer to wear them lower from time to time.

For pregnancy workouts, opt for a pair of breathable and flexible maternity yoga pants, which can be comfortable while relaxing as well. Maternity yoga pants and maternity leggings are both versatile enough to dress up with a nice flowing top or dress down with a loose T-shirt. A pair of joggers, meanwhile, are the perfect maternity pants for sleeping or lounging around the house in comfort. Complete the look with maternity shorts to wear around the house when it's hot or under maternity pants or a dress.