Maternity Hosiery Guide
Pregnancy brings unique hosiery needs. From support tights that ease leg fatigue to comfortable everyday options, the right legwear makes a significant difference.
Why Maternity Hosiery?
Regular hosiery becomes uncomfortable and potentially harmful during pregnancy:
- Standard waistbands press on growing belly
- Increased blood volume stresses leg veins
- Swelling makes regular sizes too tight
- Risk of varicose veins increases
Types of Maternity Hosiery
Maternity Pantyhose
Designed with expanding panels:
- Stretchy belly panel accommodates growth
- Low-rise or over-bump options
- Soft, non-binding waistbands
- Available in sheer to opaque
Maternity Support Tights
Compression hosiery for pregnancy:
- Graduated compression (15-20 mmHg typical)
- Reduces leg swelling and fatigue
- Helps prevent varicose veins
- Doctor-recommended for many pregnancies
Thigh-High Alternatives
Thigh-highs avoid belly entirely:
- No pressure on abdomen
- Easy bathroom access
- Can wear throughout pregnancy
- Maternity garter belts available
Compression Benefits
Why Pregnant Women Need Support
- 50% increase in blood volume
- Growing uterus presses on veins
- Hormones relax blood vessel walls
- Standing becomes more tiring
Compression Levels
| Level | mmHg | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Light | 8-15 | Mild fatigue, prevention |
| Medium | 15-20 | Most pregnancies, mild swelling |
| Firm | 20-30 | Existing varicose veins (doctor prescribed) |
Trimester Guide
First Trimester
- Regular hosiery usually still fits
- Start support tights if on feet often
- Avoid tight waistbands
Second Trimester
- Switch to maternity styles
- Compression becomes more important
- Size up as needed
Third Trimester
- Maximum support needed
- Thigh-highs may be easiest
- Compression helps with swelling
- Partner assistance for putting on
Choosing the Right Style
Over-Belly vs Under-Belly
Over-belly panels:
- Full coverage and support
- Stays in place better
- Warmer in cold weather
Under-belly bands:
- Cooler in warm weather
- Less fabric on stomach
- Some women find more comfortable
Sizing During Pregnancy
- Use pre-pregnancy weight plus expected gain
- Measure current hip circumference
- Size up in third trimester
- Check brand-specific maternity charts
Care Tips
- Hand wash to preserve elasticity
- Have multiple pairs for rotation
- Replace when compression weakens
- Put on in morning before swelling starts
Medical Note
If you have significant varicose veins, blood clots, or other circulation issues, consult your doctor about appropriate compression levels. Medical-grade compression may be prescribed.