The Best Maternity Underwear All Pregnant People Need

Not going to lie: I still wear these. Yes, they're designed for maternity since they go under the belly in a criss-cross pattern, giving shape and breathability to the underwear. But even after delivering, they're insanely comfortable. The gusset is breathable, the material is stretchy, and they don't ride up or fall down.

More: The Best Maternity Leggings You'll Ever Wear

Boy shorts are built for comfort. Alas, when you're pregnant, finding the right fit isn't always easy. Gap does it right with this pair, though: It's extra stretchy in the belly, but the slick material doesn't easily lose its shape. Put on a comfy tee, and you have the perfect pair of preggo pajamas.

If you've ever seen the movie She's Having a Baby, you'll know that there’s this pivotal scene where Kevin Bacon compares the underwear his wife wore before she got pregnant to the underwear she wears in her third trimester. He’s kind of a jerk, but I remember thinking, “They can’t possibly look like that.”

They can, they are, and holy crap, are they comfortable. Hatch makes some of the best maternity clothing available, so of course, their maternity underwear is amazing. This mid-belly pair hugs your tummy in just the right place — and stays there. If underwear can be considered soothing, this is that.

Yeah, yeah, yeah ... panty lines, smooth dresses, whatever. If you absolutely must wear a thong, this one is a great option. It's still a thong, but it's designed for a blossoming belly. But there's still going to be fabric riding between your butt cheeks like forbidden dental floss.

Remember earlier, how I mentioned there might be discharge? There also might be leaking. And by might, I mean you will pee yourself. Babies put a lot of pressure on that bladder, folks. One strong sneeze, and you're getting a surprise.

This underwear can handle it: It's made to assist in the event of a sneeze gone awry, and it doesn't feel like a diaper. The material is super stretchy, breathable, and, yes, absorbent at the gusset.

Ruching is not always your friend, but on these briefs, it just works. It helps the underwear stay in place while simultaneously maintaining enough shape and movement to let you go about your day comfortably. Plus, the price is just fabulous.

One of my biggest beefs with the maternity industry is how few options there are for plus-sized people. Thankfully, Motherhood has always had a great size-inclusive line, and these fold-over panties prove it. You can pull the stretchy panties up and over your bump, or wear them below. They're both comfortable and cute.

This is a far more comfortable seamless option, in my opinion, and it has the added benefit of supporting you where you need it. It's like a comfortable bra for your bump. This pair also helps to prevent chafing between the thighs — which is bad enough when you aren't pregnant, but the actual worst when you are.

Every once in a while, a random brand from Amazon really comes through. This is one of those instances. These briefs are inexpensive, super comfortable, and — amazingly — 95% cotton. This is unlike pretty much every other maternity panty out there, which are some combination of polyester and elastane.

Another cotton contender, this maternity underwear uses extra fabric in the front to cup your growing bump. Reviewers note that they are cool and comfortable, as well as perfect for sleeping. They have a harsher panty line, though, so beware.