When I was pregnant, I was amazed by how quickly my body changed. One week my clothes felt fine. The next, my skin felt sensitive, my belly stretched tightly, my breasts were tender, and my legs swelled by the end of the day. It wasn’t just visual — I felt so different. Seams I’d never noticed before suddenly dug in, waistbands rolled (so annoying) and fabrics felt rough. I remember thinking, “Why does no one design underwear for this phase properly?”. In reality everything and the bump continually changes over the 9 (10 really) months. Our underwear should be able to adapt.
Breast changes & sensitivity
One of the earliest pregnancy changes happens in the breasts. Rising levels of oestrogen, progesterone and prolactin stimulate milk duct growth and increase blood supply to prepare for feeding. This often results in fuller, heavier breasts and heightened nipple sensitivity. Many women find that seams, lace or underwires suddenly feel uncomfortable. Traditional bras may become too rigid as breast size fluctuates. Gentle, flexible support becomes essential. Underwear designed for pregnancy body changes should accommodate growth, feel soft against sensitive skin and provide support without restriction.
Bloating & digestive changes
Progesterone plays a vital role in pregnancy — but it also relaxes muscles, including those in the digestive system. This slows digestion, allowing gas to build and the stomach to feel fuller and tighter throughout the day. Many women feel comfortable in the morning and bloated by evening. Waistbands that once sat unnoticed can begin to press or roll. Underwear for pregnancy body changes must accommodate these daily fluctuations. Stretch-and-recover fabrics and softly structured waistbands help avoid pressure on your bump.
Visible veins & circulation
During pregnancy, blood volume increases by up to 50% to support both baby and placenta (aren’t our bodies amazing). This increased circulation can make veins appear darker and more visible beneath the skin, especially on the breasts, legs and abdomen. It’s a normal sign of the body working efficiently. As circulation shifts, warmth increases and skin sensitivity can heighten. Breathable, seam-free underwear helps prevent irritation and overheating.
Constipation & pressure
Hormonal changes in pregnancy slow digestion, and iron supplements can contribute further. The result for many women is constipation, bloating and a feeling of internal pressure. This can make anything tight around the abdomen feel uncomfortable. Staying hydrated and eating fibre-rich foods can help, and persistent discomfort is always worth discussing with a midwife. Resist the need to strain as this can cause painful haemorrhoid’s.
Swelling & fluid retention
Increased blood volume and fluid retention often lead to swelling in ankles, legs, hands and feet - particularly later in the day. Many women notice rings tightening and socks leaving deep marks. Underwear that cuts in or compresses can add unnecessary discomfort. Adaptive waistbands and flexible fabrics help garments sit gently against fluctuating bodies.
Night time calf pain
In the second and third trimester, many women experience sudden calf cramps during the night. Circulation changes and shifting mineral balance are common reasons. Gentle stretching can ease the pain.
The Mutha Project exists because I went through all these changes myself. I couldn’t find underwear that felt soft, stayed in place and adapted to my changing body shape. So I created something different. Seam-free to avoid seams that dig in, waistbands that sit gently and don’t roll and a performance fabric mix designed to stretch and recover as you do.
Pregnancy is uncomfortable as it is but your underwear shouldn’t be. If you’re looking for underwear for pregnancy body changes and in postpartum, explore our collection here.
Giorge, Founder.
