When Do Your Clothes Get Tight In Pregnancy?

This article is not a substitute for medical advice or consultation.

Pregnancy comes with many body changes. And I’m not just talking about the beautiful belly, but in places like the thighs and chest, too. Some women even go up a shoe size during pregnancy! However, the most pronounced change will of course be the baby bump.

If you’re wondering if 9 weeks pregnant is too early to start wearing maternity clothes, then keep reading. This post is all about pregnancy clothes and what to do when clothes become tight or feel uncomfortable around your belly.

Now, if this is your second or third pregnancy, your bump will likely start showing earlier than it did with your first. This is normal because your body already knows how to expand and is ready to do it again.

If it is your first pregnancy, remember that every mom (and every pregnancy) is different; some moms need to start wearing maternity leggings at the beginning of the second trimester, while others keep on wearing non-maternity clothes for their entire pregnancy.

Just focus on whatever YOU feel best in: if you want to wear comfortable pre-pregnancy clothes, go for it! Or you may choose to invest in plenty of maternity clothes for a whole new wardrobe. Either way, it’s best to choose clothes that fit and feel comfortable throughout your pregnancy.

How Early In Pregnancy Do Clothes Get Tight?

Truly, this is different for every mom, AND every pregnancy. Some factors to consider are:

• If this is your first pregnancy

Many women start to show earlier with a second pregnancy (or third).

• If you’re carrying multiples

Moms of twins or triplets usually show much earlier than with singletons.

• Your pre-pregnancy size

Surprise, surprise: You might need to purchase maternity bras by the end of the first trimester because of the pregnancy changes, up on top.

Some women may just go up a size in regular clothes, without needing to purchase clothes that are specifically maternity wear for the first two trimesters.

Depending on your weight and body type, you may not show until the last months of pregnancy. This is typical for moms who are taller and have a long torso.

• If you have pregnancy bloating

Sometimes, pants and clothing that cinch the waist will feel snug around your middle if you’re suffering from first-trimester pregnancy bloat.

Now, all that being said, there are some changes that can be anticipated with pregnancy: weight gain and that beautiful baby bump¹, for starters.

1st Trimester Changes To Expect

During the first trimester, you may not need to change up your wardrobe at all. But, it’s also common for pregnant women to experience bloating and need to swap tight jeans for stretchy pants those first weeks.

Some new moms switch out dress pants for simple work-appropriate dresses or skirts to avoid buying new clothes right away.

If your breasts are fuller due to pregnancy hormones, it might be the right time to invest in a great maternity bra (that has lots of stretch and can be used throughout your entire pregnancy) and possibly some new blouses and shirts, too.

Finally, if you’re struggling with nausea and morning sickness in early pregnancy, then choose comfortable clothing above all else.

2nd Trimester Changes To Expect

13 weeks is the beginning of the second trimester. Although your bump might not look too obvious under loose-fitting clothes, you may need to consider clothing options (or the style clothes) you wear and think about if you should switch to maternity clothes.

This all depends on your body and your pre-pregnancy clothes, of course.

Expect some weight gain in the 2nd trimester, which could mean your thighs and breasts, too. Even if you don’t have a bump yet, your clothes may get tighter simply because you’re filling out.

Remember – it’s healthy to gain weight throughout the pregnancy.

However, at around 16 weeks (roughly four months of pregnancy) you may begin to feel your uterus get heavier and it may be hard to close pants around your belly. It’s completely okay to wear loose clothing that is comfortable to wear, or to start buying maternity clothes, specifically maternity pants during pregnancy.

Some things you might try:

• Long tunic over yoga pants
• Dresses with empire waist
• Skirts with an elastic waist

Your growing uterus will make tight pants uncomfortable around your waist. If you do choose to wear regular clothes, avoid tight jeans or find clever ways to accommodate your growing belly – like wearing them unzipped, but secured with an elastic hairband.

3rd Trimester Changes to Expect

Most expecting moms have a pronounced belly in the 3rd trimester. Because all the weight is in the uterus, (below the belly button) going up a size or two in pants won’t really help anymore. You need an elastic waist or lycra material which has plenty of stretch, instead.

Did you know that doctors usually suggest that moms to gain 25-30 lbs during pregnancy(if they have normal BMI²)?

Remember, that gaining weight is healthy and necessary, so if your clothes start to feel snug it’s totally normal.

If you wore empire waist dresses and comfy yoga pants all along, good for you, most of those will still fit

There’s no rule that you need a whole new wardrobe, be creative with your clothing styles and you could do with just a few staple maternity items. What matters most is that you feel confident and embrace the various changes during pregnancy.

There are a few moms who don’t get a big belly, even by the end of the third trimester and end up wearing all their regular clothes throughout their whole pregnancy. I consider these ‘unicorn mamas’ because it is so rare; many women find that they need to buy maternity clothes by the third trimester.

When Do Pants Start Getting Tight In Pregnancy?

Pants begin to be tight when your uterus grows large enough to protrude in front of your abdomen.

This has to do with your individual body shape (length of your torso and pre-pregnancy weight, for one). While it usually occurs during the second trimester, some moms find that they have a cute baby bump at the end of the first trimester.

Is It Normal For Clothes To Feel Tight At 10 Weeks?

Yes, it is completely normal for clothes to begin feeling tight by 8, 9 or 10 weeks of pregnancy. This could be do to pregnancy bloat, if you’re carrying multiples, necessary and good weight gain, or your growing uterus.

If you have any concerns about your pregnancy or the size of your belly, ask your doctor.

When Should I Stop Wearing Tight Clothes During Pregnancy?

As soon as you find your pants are tight around your belly, look at different clothing options to help provide comfort. This could be dresses, joggers, or maternity pants, whichever you feel most confident in.

When Should I Stop Wearing Tight Jeans During Pregnancy?

If your jeans are causing you physical discomfort at any part of your body (bum, thighs, or belly) swap them out for loose-fitting clothes or something more comfortable,

This can be any time throughout pregnancy but is highly suggested during the third trimester.

Negative Effects Of Wearing Tight Clothes While You’re Pregnant

There are three main negative effects associated with wearing tight-fitting clothes during pregnancy: 1) poor breathability, 2) effect on circulation, and 3) an increased chance of yeast infections.

1. Breathability

Increased blood flow to your baby means you will be feeling extra warm during pregnancy. One way to keep cooler is to choose breathable fabrics, such as cotton blends, linen, etc. Tight-fitting garments, especially ones like denim are not breathable and won’t help regulate body temperature as well as cotton or linen.

2. Circulation

Now, your growing baby is protected by a sac of water within your uterus (under your skin!), so tight-fitting clothes alone won’t have a negative impact on the baby. But, if your pants are way too tight, it could affect your circulation, Mama. We wouldn’t want that, either.

3. Yeast Infections

Finally, wearing tight jeans could increase your chance of getting a yeast infection³. Candidiasis yeast prefers warm, humid environments, such as the sweat of your skin inside tight-fitting jeans.

Studies have shown that tight-fitting clothes do create the right conditions for a yeast infection, including vaginitis. While this isn’t a seriously dangerous infection for you or your baby, it isn’t fun, either. You can avoid it by wearing loose-fitting, breathable garments, instead.

Can Wearing Tight Jeans While Pregnant Hurt The Baby?

No, tight jeans during pregnancy will not harm or hurt your baby – but it could be pretty uncomfortable for you!

Your clothing choices won’t harm your baby, but it’s still not advised to wear belts or pants that are tight around the abdomen, either. It might not even be possible – if you can’t zip up your pants, there is a chance they could slide off.

Alternatively, over-the-belly waistbands of maternity pants keep them up, without being too tight around your bump. They are actually really comfortable and many moms prefer them to struggling into their pre-pregnancy jeans during those last weeks before baby’s due date.

Can I Cause A Miscarriage By Wearing Tight Clothing?

No, you cannot cause a miscarriage by clothing. Even if you wear very tight clothes, remember that your baby is within a sac of water, inside your uterus, under your skin.

What Should I Not Wear During Pregnancy?

• Waist trainers
• Corsets
• Tight belts
• Constant worry about other people’s opinions of your clothing style during pregnancy

Okay, the last one is sort of a joke. But really, pregnancy style has come a long way – which is great! Some celebrity moms like Rihanna and Gigi Hadid have popularized wearing crop tops or open-front jeans throughout their pregnancy to show off their beautiful bumps, not cover them up.

The emphasis here is not to hide your body, but to embrace all the wonderful changes. Feel confident and wear what makes you feel comfortable and beautiful, no matter what stage of pregnancy you are in.

The purpose of this article is informative. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice or medical care. Remember: safety first! Consult your doctor/pediatrician in case of any doubts. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.

Resources:

http://ndl.ethernet.edu.et/

https://www.lifespan.org/

https://www.favoriteborochiro.com/

Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.

If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂