by Sorah Devlin

Created on: August 18, 2009   Last Updated: May 11, 2011

That cute little bump of a belly is starting to become a bit more than a bump. Reaching for your favorite jeans leads to a little hesitancy. "Are these going to fit?" Looks like its time to hit the maternity store, Mommy. Baby is making its presence very well known.

Most stores are staffed by very helpful people. Knowing your own preferences based on the clothes you wore prior to pregnancy can help both you and the staff assisting you find the perfect pair of jeans that are not only comfy for your changing body, but will also still leaving you feeling like a million bucks without spending that much.

What were some of your favorite styles before your pregnancy? Boot cut, straight leg, wide leg? Are you short or tall? Pretty much every variation of jean style in a regular store can be found in a maternity store, the only real difference being in the belly. This is another part where your comfort is the main factor. Tummy panel styles can range from a "no belly,""under belly," "mid-belly," and "full belly."

A no belly style is exactly as it sounds: no belly band at all. These look almost exactly like your pre-baby jeans, except the back of the jeans' waist band has extra elastic to give room to the growing baby. The under belly style is a full elastic and cotton band that rests beneath your developing belly, helping to lift and support baby as it grows. These two offer some support to your increasing waistline. Looking for something to help ease the belly burden? You might need something with a little more strength.

Mid belly panels reach up to your belly button, helping to cradle your tummy as it grows bigger with the little one inside. These are a bit more snug, but can help reduce some of the strain on your back. A full belly panel covers your entire tummy, hugging right up under your ribs. Sounds a little uncomfortable and rather warm? The fabric used to make full belly panels lately are made of very thin material, similar to Lycra. These cling to your belly, helping to keep your jeans up and your little one well supported.

So which is best for you? That depends on your preferences. Spend some time in the store. Try on everything until you find the style that's perfect for you. Shopping early is a great idea. Most maternity stores offer a maternity pillow for moms-to-be that are just starting to show. The small pillow is velcroed around your tummy and allows you to see what things will look like in about 3 months from your current size. Above all, make sure the jeans are comfortable. Don't just settle for ones that "might do it". These are jeans you'll be wearing for the next nine months! You're going to be uncomfortable enough with baby's developing body and movements; you don't need your jeans adding to it.

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