Congratulations! You’re expecting! As a parent-to-be this news can be both exciting and full of unknowns – leaving you thinking about the many changes coming your way. As a healthcare worker, you might also be wondering how you’ll be able to dress professionally while also staying as comfortable as possible over the next year of your life. Maternity scrubs are specifically designed to offer the comfort, flexibility, and functionality you’ll need to continue performing your job effectively, while also taking care of your changing body. 

Read on for a detailed guide to everything you need to know about maternity scrubs, from sizing to helpful buying tips:

Why Choose Maternity Scrubs?

Regular scrubs aren’t designed for the physical changes that come with pregnancy. They don’t stretch well and can be uncomfortable as your body grows. Maternity scrubs are different because they:

• Stretch: They’re made with elastic materials and fabrics that grow with you, keeping you comfortable as your body changes and grows during pregnancy. 
• Adjust: They have special features like adjustable waistbands, drawstrings, and side panels, so they can be expanded as needed week by week. 
• Roomy and Supportive: They are designed and cut to give extra space and support where you need it most, such as in the bust and belly area, making long shifts easier and more comfortable. 

Maternity Scrub Sizing

It might seem easier just to buy a size or two up in your regular scrubs, but maternity scrubs are a wiser choice. They’re made for the changes that come with pregnancy, with features like stretch panels and adjustable waistbands, that help you feel good and flatter your curves. Regular scrubs often fall short for pregnant women, becoming tight in some places and loose in others, which isn’t ideal or flattering for your changing body.

Maternity scrub tops and pants are available in sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, and many lines include petite and tall options to achieve a more customized fit. It’s wise to try on different sizes to see what looks and feels best. A good rule of thumb is to start with whatever your normal scrub size is, and then size up if needed. The expandable belly panels and stretchy fabrics of maternity scrubs are very forgiving, and you may find that you’ll fit into one size longer than you expected

Pro Tip: Maternity scrubs aren’t just for moms-to-be! They’re designed to fit your body from early baby bump to delivery day – but what many women don’t realize is that they’ll also fit comfortably as your body changes after delivery day as well. Because they’re stretchy and forgiving, many find them to be a comfortable choice for quite a while after delivery as well. 

Tips for Buying Maternity Scrubs

Here’s how to shop smart for maternity scrubs:

• Wait to Buy: You might not need maternity scrubs right away. Your regular scrubs will likely still fit for the first few months, perhaps even into your second trimester. When you notice they’re getting tight over your growing bump, it’s time to switch.
• Focus on Quality: It’s tempting to save money, but good quality maternity scrubs last longer and are more comfortable. They may even last for more than one pregnancy, making them a better long-term value. 
• Match Your Work Needs: Think about what your workday is like. If you are on your feet and moving for the majority of your shift, look for scrub options with added flexibility and stretch. If you work in a cold environment, think about layering with a maternity cardigan or jacket. 
• Mix and Match: Combine different colors and patterns with your pants and tops to make more outfits – maximizing your wardrobe choices without maximizing your scrub budget. 
• Read Reviews: Check out what other pregnant healthcare workers say about different lines of maternity scrubs. Their experiences can help you choose.
• Ask Colleagues: Talk to coworkers who have been pregnant. Their advice and recommendations can prove invaluable when shopping for your professional maternity wardrobe. 

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This special time in your life deserves special clothes. With the right maternity scrubs, you can do your job well and stay comfortable. You can look and feel great while showing off your baby bump with pride and professionalism. 

The professionals at Uniform Headquarters are here to help you with your maternity scrub needs. Contact us today!