Glossary of Maternity & Nursing Wear Terms

Whether you’re new to maternity shopping or looking to brush up on industry terms, this glossary offers clear, practical definitions for the most commonly used terminology in maternity and nursing wear. From fabric features and fit types to nursing access points and postpartum essentials, you’ll find concise explanations that eliminate confusion and boost your confidence as a shopper, parent, or gift-giver.

Use this resource to better understand what makes maternity clothing supportive, versatile, and comfortable—and how each feature benefits expectant and new parents.

In this glossary, you’ll learn:

• Key differences between different maternity and nursing garments
• How features like adjustable waistbands and elastic panels support changing bodies
• Which fabrics enhance comfort during pregnancy and postpartum

Active Maternitywear

Active maternitywear refers to clothing specifically designed for physical activity during pregnancy, incorporating features such as stretch fabrics, moisture-wicking materials, and supportive waistbands. These garments aim to accommodate a growing abdomen while providing comfort, mobility, and support for prenatal exercise and daily movement. Also see Maternity Activewear.

Adaptive Fit

Adaptive fit refers to garment construction that allows clothing to adjust dynamically to changes in body shape and size, ensuring sustained comfort and functionality. In maternity and nursing wear, adaptive fit is achieved through elastic panels, adjustable waistbands, stretch fabrics, or modular designs that accommodate pregnancy progression and postpartum recovery.

Adjustable Waistband

An adjustable waistband is a clothing feature that allows for changes in waist size using elements such as elastic panels, drawstrings, or buttonhole elastics. It provides flexibility to accommodate a growing or shrinking abdomen for increased comfort and prolonged garment use.

Antenatal

Antenatal refers to the period of time during pregnancy before birth, typically spanning from conception to the onset of labor. In the context of maternity and nursing wear, "antenatal" describes products designed to support the physical and lifestyle needs of individuals throughout pregnancy.

Baby Bump

A baby bump is the visible outward protrusion of the abdomen that occurs during pregnancy as the uterus expands to accommodate fetal growth. It typically becomes noticeable between weeks 12 and 20 of gestation, depending on factors such as body type, muscle tone, and number of prior pregnancies.

Bamboo Fiber

Bamboo fiber is a regenerated cellulose fiber made from bamboo pulp, known for its softness, breathability, and natural moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties. It is valued for its hypoallergenic qualities, thermal regulation, and comfort against sensitive skin, making it suitable for both parent and infant use.

Below-the-Bump

Below the bump refers to a maternity garment design where the waistband sits beneath the pregnant abdomen, typically on the hips or lower waist. This style is commonly used in pants and skirts to provide comfort, reduce abdominal pressure, and offer a secure fit during early to mid-pregnancy stages.

Use this quick comparison to understand the differences between over-the-bump, below-the-bump, and fold-down waistbands—so you can pick the fit that matches your stage, comfort level, and personal style.

Waistband Style	Placement	Best For
Over-the-Bump	Covers the belly	Gentle compression, coverage
Below-the-Bump	Under the belly	Less pressure, casual wear
Fold-Down Waistband	Adjustable (folds)	Custom fit, daily comfort

Breathable Fabric

Breathable fabric refers to textile materials that allow air and moisture vapor to pass through, aiding in temperature regulation and moisture management. Breathable fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, and other fabric blends help maintain comfort by reducing overheating and skin irritation.

C-Section Friendly

C-section friendly refers to clothing or garments designed to avoid irritation or pressure on the lower abdominal area following a cesarean delivery. These items typically feature high-rise waistbands, soft seams, and non-restrictive fabrics to promote comfort and facilitate post-surgical healing.

Comfort Stretch

Comfort stretch refers to fabric engineered with a moderate degree of elasticity to provide flexibility, ease of movement, and enhanced fit without significant compression. In maternity and nursing wear, comfort stretch materials (often incorporating spandex or elastane) adapt to body changes while maintaining shape and softness.

Compression Pants

Compression pants are form-fitting garments made from elasticated, graduated-compression fabrics that apply controlled pressure to the legs and lower abdomen to support circulation and reduce muscle fatigue. They are designed to relieve swelling, provide abdominal support, and promote recovery following childbirth or cesarean delivery.

Drape Fit

Drape fit refers to a garment construction style in which fabric falls loosely and fluidly over the body, creating a relaxed, flowing silhouette. This type of fit accommodates body changes by providing flexibility, comfort, and enhanced breathability without clinging to the midsection.

Ease Open Snaps

Ease-open snaps are fasteners designed for quick and convenient opening and closing, typically using interlocking metal or plastic components that can be operated with minimal effort. They are commonly used in nursing tops and sleepwear to allow one-handed breast access for feeding or pumping.

Elastane

Elastane is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity, commonly blended with other fabrics to enhance stretch and recovery. It is used to provide flexible fit, maintain garment shape, and accommodate body changes during and after pregnancy.

Elastic Panels

Elastic panels are sections of stretchable fabric integrated into garments to allow flexibility, expansion, and a contoured fit in response to body movement or growth. In maternity wear, elastic panels are often placed at the waist or sides to accommodate a growing abdomen and provide sustained comfort throughout pregnancy.

Empire Waistline

Empire waistline refers to a garment design where the waist seam is positioned just below the bust, rather than at the natural waist. This elevated seam allows fabric to flow freely over the abdomen, offering comfort, ease of movement, and visual elongation of the body.

Easy Nursing Access

Easy nursing access refers to design features in clothing that allow quick and discreet exposure of the breast for breastfeeding. Common mechanisms include lift-up panels, ease-open snaps, or nursing crossover fronts, enabling convenient feeding without removing the entire garment.

Fold-Down Waistband

A fold-down waistband is a flexible garment feature that can be worn extended over the abdomen for support or folded below the belly for comfort and style variation. Common in maternity bottoms, this design allows for customizable fit and pressure relief throughout different stages of pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

Fourth Trimester

The fourth trimester refers to the first 12 weeks postpartum, a transitional period marked by physical recovery, hormonal changes, and infant adjustment outside the womb. This phase influences garment design to prioritize comfort, support, and easy breastfeeding access during maternal recovery and newborn care.

Functional Fashion

Functional fashion refers to clothing designed to combine aesthetic appeal with practical features that meet specific lifestyle or physiological needs. In maternity and nursing wear, functional fashion integrates elements such as nursing access, stretch fabrics, and support structures while maintaining contemporary style and fit.

Garment Longevity

Garment longevity refers to the duration a clothing item retains its functionality, fit, and appearance through repeated use and washing. Longevity is enhanced by features such as durable fabrics, adaptable sizing (e.g., adjustable waistbands), and versatile designs that accommodate body changes from pregnancy through postpartum.

High-Rise Leggings

High-rise leggings are form-fitting pants designed with a waistband that sits above the natural waistline, often reaching the midriff or ribcage. They typically feature over-the-bump panels that provide gentle abdominal support, promote coverage, and accommodate a growing belly throughout pregnancy.

Inner Nursing Layer

An inner nursing layer is a discreet, built-in fabric panel within a garment that provides coverage and support during breastfeeding while allowing access to the breast through an opening such as a pull-aside or lift-up design. Common in nursing tops, this layer enables one-handed operation and maintains modesty during feeding.

Jogger Maternity Pants

Jogger maternity pants are casual, tapered-leg trousers designed for pregnant individuals, featuring a relaxed fit, cuffed ankles, and a supportive waistband. Typically made from stretchable, soft fabrics, they often include an over-bump or under-bump elastic waistband to accommodate abdominal growth and enhance comfort during all trimesters.

Loungewear Set

A loungewear set is a coordinated two- or three-piece clothing ensemble, typically consisting of a top and bottom made from soft, flexible fabrics intended for at-home comfort. These sets are designed with features such as elastic waistbands, nursing access, and breathable materials to support relaxation, sleep, and postpartum recovery.

Maternity Activewear

Maternity activewear refers to clothing specifically designed for physical activity during pregnancy, incorporating features such as stretchable fabrics, breathable materials, and supportive waistbands to accommodate a growing abdomen. These garments provide comfort, mobility, and stability for expectant individuals engaging in exercise or daily movement throughout all pregnancy stages.

Maternity Dress

A maternity dress is a garment specifically designed to accommodate a growing abdomen during pregnancy, typically featuring stretch fabrics, empire waistlines, or ruching for flexibility and comfort. These dresses are constructed to provide a flattering fit throughout all trimesters while allowing ease of movement and support for the changing body.

Moisture-Wicking

Moisture-wicking refers to the ability of fabric to draw perspiration away from the skin and transport it to the outer surface of the material, where it can evaporate more easily. These fabrics help regulate body temperature, reduce skin irritation, and enhance comfort during physical or hormonal changes.

Nipple Access

Nipple access refers to garment features that allow direct exposure of the nipple for breastfeeding or pumping without the need to remove the entire top. Common access designs in nursing wear include lift-up flaps or pull-aside panels to enable discreet and efficient feeding.

Nursing Dress

A nursing dress is a garment specifically designed with built-in features that allow easy breast access for breastfeeding or pumping, typically through discreet openings such as lift-up panels or pull-aside access. These dresses are made from soft, stretchable fabrics to accommodate postpartum body changes and provide comfort, convenience, and modesty during nursing activities.

To help you choose the nursing dress that best suits your lifestyle, here’s a quick comparison of the most common types of breastfeeding access built into maternity-friendly dresses:

Access Type	Description	Pros	Best For
Lift-Up Panel	Hidden layer lifts to expose the breast	Discreet, offers full coverage	Casual wear, sleepwear, modest nursing
Pull-Aside Access	Stretchy or overlapping fabric pulls aside	Quick, one-handed access	On-the-go nursing, newborn stage
Classic Button-Down	Functional front buttons for easy opening	Timeless style, adjustable opening	Workwear, transitional outfits

Over-the-Bump

Over-the-bump refers to a design feature in maternity bottoms where a high-rise, stretchable panel extends over the abdomen to provide full coverage and support. Common in maternity leggings, jeans, and skirts, this design helps stabilize the midsection, relieve pressure on the lower back, and accommodate growth throughout pregnancy.

Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from petroleum-based polymers, known for its strength, durability, and resistance to shrinking, stretching, and wrinkling. It is often blended with other fibers to add moisture-wicking properties, quick-drying capability, and shape retention, enhancing overall garment performance.

Postpartum Wear

Postpartum wear refers to clothing specifically designed to support the physical and functional needs of individuals after childbirth, including features such as abdominal support, easy nursing access, and soft, breathable fabrics. These garments accommodate postnatal body changes, aid in recovery following vaginal or cesarean delivery, and promote comfort during infant care and breastfeeding.

Peep-Hole Nursing Access

Peep-hole nursing access is a garment feature that provides discreet breast exposure through strategically placed openings, typically hidden beneath an outer layer or panel. Common in nursing tops and dresses, this design allows for convenient, modest breastfeeding or pumping without fully removing or displacing the garment.

Pull-Aside Access

Pull-aside access refers to a nursing garment design that allows one side of the fabric, typically the neckline or bust panel, to be moved aside for direct breast access. Common in stretchy or wrap-style tops and bras, this feature enables quick, one-handed breastfeeding or pumping without the need for clasps or fasteners.

Quick Access Closure

Quick access closure refers to garment fastening mechanisms designed for rapid and convenient opening, commonly used in nursing and maternity wear to facilitate breastfeeding or pumping. Examples include snaps and hook-and-loop fasteners, which enable efficient use without compromising garment fit or support.

Rayon

Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber made from regenerated cellulose, typically derived from wood pulp, and known for its soft, breathable, and drapeable qualities. It is valued for its comfort against sensitive skin, moisture absorption, and elegant appearance, making it suitable for both everyday and dressy garments.

Recovery Wear

Recovery wear refers to specially designed clothing intended to support the body’s healing process following childbirth, including both vaginal and cesarean deliveries. These garments often feature gentle compression, soft and breathable fabrics, and easy nursing access to aid in abdominal support, circulation, and overall postpartum comfort.

Relaxed Fit

Relaxed fit refers to a garment silhouette offering extra room through the waist, hips, and thighs, allowing unrestricted movement and enhanced comfort. In maternity and nursing wear, relaxed fit designs accommodate changing body shapes and are typically used in casual clothing to reduce pressure on sensitive or expanding areas.

Skin-to-Skin Access

Skin-to-skin access refers to garment features that enable direct contact between a parent’s chest and their newborn, supporting bonding, thermoregulation, and breastfeeding. This is achieved through front openings, wrap designs, or expandable panels that allow the infant to be held against bare skin without full garment removal.

Spandex

Spandex is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity, capable of stretching up to five times its original length and returning to shape without deformation. Commonly blended with other fabrics in maternity and nursing wear, spandex provides a flexible fit, enhances comfort, and accommodates body changes throughout pregnancy and postpartum.

Stretch Recovery

Stretch recovery refers to a fabric’s ability to return to its original shape and size after being stretched, maintaining garment fit and appearance over time. In maternity and nursing wear, high stretch recovery is essential for accommodating body changes while preventing sagging, distortion, or loss of support with repeated wear.

Tailored Fit

Tailored fit refers to a garment cut that closely follows the natural contours of the body, offering a streamlined and structured appearance without being overly tight. These designs incorporate strategic shaping, darts, or stretchy panels to accommodate changing body dimensions while maintaining a polished look.

Two-in-One Wear

Two-in-one wear refers to garments designed for dual functionality, allowing them to be worn across different stages such as pregnancy and postpartum or for both maternity and nursing purposes. These versatile designs often feature adjustable fits, nursing access, or convertible elements to extend the garment's usability and value over time.

Ultra-Soft Fabric

Ultra-soft fabric refers to textiles engineered or selected for their exceptionally smooth and gentle texture against the skin, often achieved through fine fibers, brushing techniques, or fabric blends such as modal, bamboo, or cotton-spandex. These soft fabrics enhance comfort for sensitive skin, reduce friction, and promote wearability during prolonged use.

V-Neck Nursing Top

A V-neck nursing top is a garment designed with a V-shaped neckline that facilitates easy breast access for breastfeeding or pumping, often through wrap-front or pull-aside construction. Made from stretchable and soft fabrics, this style combines nursing functionality with a flattering neckline suitable for postpartum body changes.

Wrap Dress

A wrap dress is a garment constructed with overlapping front panels that are secured by tying or fastening at the side or back, creating an adjustable fit. These dresses provide flexibility for a growing abdomen and facilitate easy breast access for feeding, while maintaining a tailored appearance.