Maternity shorts accommodate your changing body throughout pregnancy and beyond
Choose from over-bump, under-bump, recovery, lounge, and active styles
Designed for comfort and support, not to ‘fix’ or change your incredible body
Many styles work through pregnancy and postpartum, (they grow with you)
Your body is going through, or has gone through a massive transformation. Maternity and postpartum shorts are designed to be stretchy and breathable. They move with your changing shape, supporting you through pregnancy and healing.
Different styles support different stages and needs:
Over-the-bump shorts – Soft panels that sit comfortably over your bump, providing gentle support without pressure. Many women find these more comfortable in later pregnancy.
Under-the-bump shorts – These sit below your bump for those who prefer less fabric or are in early pregnancy. They can often feel less restrictive in warm weather.
Postpartum recovery shorts – Designed to fit snugly and provide gentle compression that supports healing after birth, whether vaginal or c-section. Unlike regular maternity shorts, these are meant to be fitted. The compression is functional, helping your body recover.
Lounge & sleep shorts – Soft, stretchy, comfortable. For days when getting dressed feels like an achievement (and it is). Perfect for those early postpartum weeks when comfort is everything.
Active / everyday shorts – For movement, walks, or just living life. Designed to support your body through activity without restriction.
Browse our complete range of maternity and nursing clothes for other things that might help along the way.
Well-designed maternity and postpartum shorts offer:
Stretchy, breathable fabrics – Materials that move with your body, not against it. Soft on skin that can feel more sensitive during pregnancy and postpartum.
Adjustable fits – Panels and waistbands that accommodate your changing shape without digging in or creating uncomfortable pressure.
Supportive compression (when needed) – Postpartum recovery shorts offer gentle support for healing, particularly helpful after c-sections. This isn't about appearance, it's about your total comfort during recovery.
Practical everyday wear – Machine washable, durable fabrics that handle real life. Because you have enough to think about without hand-washing shorts.
Versatile styling – Works through multiple stages so you're not constantly buying new clothes as your body changes.
For regular maternity shorts (pregnancy and casual postpartum), choose your pre-pregnancy size as they're designed to accommodate growth. Between sizes? Sizing up prioritises comfort.
For postpartum recovery/compression shorts, proper fit is important. They need to be super snug to provide the supportive compression that aids healing.
The number on the label means nothing compared to how the shorts actually feel and function. If you're buying as a gift for new mum, include a gift receipt as sizing is a very personal thing.
You can also find more support in our pregnancy advice section and browse other hidden gems in our for mum essentials.
Your body has grown a human being and done something genuinely miraculous. Your body deserves comfort and clothing that works for it exactly as it is today, remarkable, powerful and worthy of gentle care. Choose shorts that feel good. That's all that matters.