Putting on anything other than baggy sweats in the midst of sleepless nights and diaper changes might not be high on your list of priorities post-baby, but once you start to feel like your body is yours again— beautiful and comfortable lingerie can help boost your confidence.
Clinical Sexologist Rachel Sommer, Ph.D., and co-founder of My Sex ToyGuide, explains how feeling uncomfortable or less confident in your lingerie is normal, but just because your body looks — and feels — different than it did pre-baby doesn’t mean you shouldn’t celebrate it.
“Your body just did something beautiful, and that’s sexy. But getting your psyche and physique in sync can take time,” she says. “Your new normal with lingerie might just include updated styles and comfortable lingerie to support your new body and lifestyle; like breastfeeding and pumping.”
Sommer explains that comfortable lingerie should prioritize style, support, and functionality to help new mothers feel comfortable, confident, and well-supported during the postpartum period. “Whether it’s nursing bras, nightgowns, or high-waisted postpartum panties, the right lingerie can make a significant difference in your post-baby comfort and well-being.”
More often than not, the first time you go to try on something other than your postpartum wardrobe you’ll feel off, explains Sommer. “The key to feeling confident is to find comfortable lingerie that you feel good in. Different brands have different sizes and designs; so experimenting with diverse styles is essential,” she says. “Multiple silhouettes, fabrics, and styles exist – so go out there and get the perfect piece that’s right for you.”
What to look for in comfortable lingerie:
When shopping for comfortable lingerie, there are several key factors to consider to ensure that you find the right pieces that offer comfort, support, and functionality. Here’s what you should look for in comfortable lingerie for whatever you need postpartum:
- Comfort: Comfort is paramount during the postpartum period. Look for lingerie made from soft, breathable materials that won’t irritate sensitive skin. The garments should be gentle and forgiving on your body, which is still recovering from childbirth.
- Support: Choose lingerie that provides the necessary support for your breasts and abdomen. Supportive bras, camisoles, and shapewear can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
- Adjustability: Postpartum bodies can go through significant changes, so opt for lingerie with adjustable features. Adjustable straps, closures, and bands can accommodate fluctuations in breast size and abdominal shape.
- Nursing Access: If you plan to breastfeed, consider lingerie with nursing features. These typically include easy-access clasps, drop-down cups, or pull-aside panels to make breastfeeding more convenient.
Lace Hands-Free Pumping and Nursing Bra
Nursing and pumping mamas rejoice. It’s nearly impossible to find a nursing and pumping bra that is supportive, comfortable, and a little sexy. Until now. This lace bra allows you to be hands-free when pumping and also pulls down for breastfeeding sessions. The lining is super soft against your sensitive skin and the back features a wide band to prevent digging and pinching.
What we love:
- Front clips allow for breastfeeding sessions.
- The bra holds both wearable and traditional pump pieces in place to allow for easy movement.
- Adjustable and flexible band prevents digging at the rib cage.
What we would change:
- Smoother lace so you can’t see it underneath thin clothing.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 34B – 42F
- Style: Cool Lining; available in cotton lining.
- Color: Rose Brown; available in 10 colors
- If you are pregnant or in the first 6 months of breastfeeding, we recommend sizing up.
- If you are 6 months beyond the breastfeeding period, we recommend selecting the size after measurement.
Buy now on Amazon; $28
Natori Feathers Plunge Underwire Maternity Nursing Bra
This bra isn’t going to help make dinner but with lightly padded underwire cups, it will support you in other ways. Most nursing bras can lean matronly, but this one with subtle lace trim feels fresh and a touch sexy. The front cups unclip to allow for breastfeeding sessions.
What we love:
- Soft cups support sensitive skin.
- Underwire offers support and helps with shaping.
- Subtle lace makes this comfortable and cute for everyday wear.
What we would change:
- Bra runs small so you might need to try multiple sizes to find the best fit.
Quick Facts:
- Size: 32A – 44G
- Color: Black; available in two colors.
- How to wash: Hand wash
Buy now on Amazon; $44
Calvin Klein Invisibles Comfort Bra
This bra is incredibly soft which is soothing against sensitive skin and nipples. With no tags to prevent itching or discomfort, stretchy cups that can expand to accommodate engorged and fluctuating breast sizes and bands that stay in place, this bra is a great option for moms. Having a bra that fits through fluctuations means you don’t need to keep buying different sizes and styles.
What we love:
- Soft and stretchy material accommodates fluctuating breast sizes.
- The band lays flat and doesn’t dig into your rib cage.
- A diverse range of colors.
What we would change:
- Thicker straps for additional support.
Quick Facts:
- Size: XXS – XL
- Color: Bare; available in 17 colors.
- How to wash: Machine Wash Cold, Do Not Bleach, Tumble Dry Low
Buy now on Amazon; $30.80
Honeydew Jules Shortie Set
This cheeky floral set is playful and most importantly comfortable lingerie for your post-C-section body. The shorts are high-waisted with a touch of lace at the waistband, so the area that is touching your incision is soft and flowy. The cropped top shows just the right amount of skin while still providing coverage to your midsection.
What we love:
- High-waisted shorts provide support and coverage for hips and waist.
- Adjustable straps on the tank top.
- Soft fabric makes this comfortable to sleep in.
What we would change:
- A bit more coverage on the backside.
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-L
- Color: Black Floral
- How to wash: Wash cold
Buy now on Amazon; $40.12
Eberjey Women’s Naya Romper
A satin romper with a plunging neckline is the perfect balance of sexy and comfortable lingerie. The cinched waistline and loose bottom provide coverage around your midsection and C-Section incision and the plunging neckline highlights just the right amount of skin. Sommer notes that comfortable lingerie that leaves room for the imagination is confidence-boosting and attractive to a partner.
What we love:
- Can be easily pulled to the side to accommodate nursing and pumping.
- Soft silky material feels comfortable against sensitive skin.
- Adjustable straps accommodate varying chest sizes.
What we would change:
- If you sleep in it you might find discomfort in it riding up throughout the night.
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS – XL
- Color: Black
- How to wash: Machine wash with similar colors.
Buy now on Amazon; $128
RSLOVE Sexy Lingerie Set
If strapping yourself into complicated lingerie isn’t your thing (we’re right there with you!!) throw on this matching bralette and panty set to help you feel good all over. Stretchy and breathable, this set gives you maximum comfort from sheer and lace-trimmed boy shorts and a matching bralette.
If you’re not a fan of compression and support, this soft set sits nicely on your body without any tight hugging. Mom of two, Courtney, raved about the coverage as well as the matching robe. “The set comes with a lace robe, which adds an additional element of elegance and coverage.”
What we love:
- Low compression makes this comfortable to sleep in.
- The wide bralette band provides added coverage.
- The robe included can be worn with or without the set.
What we would change:
- More support in the bralette.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S – 2XL
- Color: Wine Red; available in nine colors.
- How to Wash: Hand-wash only.
Buy now on Amazon; $25
RHYFF Hipster Brief With Lace
This lace brief is perfect for any occasion, night or day, providing a subtle and sexy look. Built with the lightest level of shapewear, these high-waisted underwear skim the body for a streamlined feel. They have maximum stretch, soft and breathable material that shapes your body and a variety of colors for any occasion.
What we love:
- Wide lace waistband to prevent shifting.
- A diverse color range allows you to get creative with your underwear.
- Full coverage bottom.
What we would change:
- Can be tight around leg holes, so size accordingly.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S-3XL
- Color: Black; available in 8 color packs.
- How to wash: Machine wash.
Buy now on Amazon; $27.96
Ekouaer Women Silk Camisole Pajamas Shorts Set
With a bit of stretch, this silky set will make you feel confident and sexy again. While still providing the same comfort as your t-shirt and sweatshirt (which could use a much-needed wash), this set does not cling to your body and feels elevated and cute in a satin finish.
What we love:
- Extremely comfortable and flowy makes it easy to sleep in.
- Adjustable straps for fluctuating breast sizes.
- Can accommodate a bra for additional support.
What we would change:
- Shorts run very short.
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-2XL
- Color: Navy Blue; available in 13 colors.
- How to wash: Hand wash separately; color can bleed.
Buy now on Amazon; $29
Avidlove Pajama Lace Set
An all-over lacey number is sure to put a little pep in your step. If you and your perineum aren’t ready for a lace thong (which who really is?), boy shorts are just as sexy and way more comfortable. The matching top is soft and breathable to provide comfort to your breasts.
What we love:
- Super cute bow detailing.
- The low support of the top makes it more comfortable than an underwire option.
- Boy shorts are more comfortable than a thong or cheeky style.
What we would change:
- Additional support in the top so it can accommodate a larger chest.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S – 2XL
- Color: Navy, available in 10 colors
- How to wash: Hand wash.
Buy now on Amazon; $19.99
Eberjey Naya tencel Modal Chemise
Soft and feminine, this beautiful chemise will have you feeling relaxed and comfortable. The smooth tencel modal fabric is soft to the touch and drapes beautifully. The delicate lace detail continues in the back which adds a touch of sophistication.
What we love:
- The buttery soft material is comfortable to sleep in.
- Not too short.
- Easy to pull down to nurse or pump.
What we would change:
- Pricey, but the quality is top-notch.
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Olive; available in three colors.
- How to wash: Hand wash.
Buy now on Amazon; $128
Stars Above Beautiful Soft Notch Collar NightGown
Words cannot describe how truly comfortable and cute this nightgown is. It’s incredibly soft, easily opens for nursing or pumping, and provides coverage in all the right places. It doesn’t run short and allows you to feel sexy and confident at a time when you might be feeling the most vulnerable.
What we love:
- Comes in a diverse size range.
- Sleeves and length provide coverage.
- A longer hemline allows ample coverage for the legs and bottom.
What we would change:
- The collar can get misshapen after multiple washes.
Quick Facts:
- Size: S-2XL
- Color: Navy; available in 34 colors.
- How to wash: Machine was cold.
Buy now on Amazon; $26.86
One Last Thing: FAQ
Is there any particular lingerie that is good for postpartum?
If you’re fresh from a C-section operation, Sommer recommends getting specialized underwear for recovery. “C-section underwear is designed to support the wound incision. Look for a high waistband and soft, breathable fabric to prevent chafing,” she says. Some models incorporate compression to reduce swelling and, more importantly, promote healing.
Once you’ve healed, you can experiment with lingerie designed for people coming from a C-section or other abdominal surgeries. “Wearing sexy bodywear in soft fabrics enhances the wearer’s self-esteem while offering comfortable underwear that reduces friction against the scar,” explains Sommer.
When is the best time to wear lingerie?
The most attractive traits are mental and not physical. Sommer explains how the best time to wear lingerie is when you’re in the mood. “The goal is to bring out confidence, positivity, and confidence in your skin,” she says. “So, what better time to live life to the fullest and feel yourself than when dopamine and serotonin are at their highest.”
What is the best way to feel comfortable and confident in lingerie?
If you’re new to wearing lingerie, I recommend practicing by yourself first. It’s always a bit nerve-wracking to try out a new fashion attire, and lingerie is no exception. So, get comfortable with the new item of clothing before wearing it before your partner.
