Working in the medical field while expecting a baby is no joke. Whether you are a doctor, nurse, or invaluable surgical team member, your job requires focus and stamina. You’ll need scrubs as your body goes through incredible changes that not only support your belly but also keep you comfortable and professional during these long shifts. But with so many options, where do you start, and what should you be looking out for? Don’t worry – this article explores it all, including some of the best maternity scrubs. Let’s jump right in!
Table of Contents
What are Maternity Scrubs?
Maternity scrubs are medical uniforms designed to accommodate healthcare workers during pregnancy. They are made of fixable materials, have adjustable waistbands, and can expand as the belly grows. This maintains comfort, mobility, and even a professional appearance throughout this time.
Why Maternity Scrubs are Better than Normal Scrubs?
Many are tempted to stick to regular scrubs while pregnant, but maternity scrubs are the better choice.
Here’s why:
- Comfort: Maternity scrubs are much more comfortable than regular scrubs. This is because they accommodate growing bellies, which means that you don’t have to worry about them being restrictive or too tight.
- Better Fit: Adjustable waistbands, side ruching, and elastic panels provide a more comfortable and flattering fit even as your pregnancy progresses.
- Support: Pregnancy can strain your back, but maternity scrubs, with their compression bands or built-in panels, can provide extra stability for your bump.
- Professional Look: Medical personnel must look a certain way, even when pregnant. Maternity scrubs are ideal for a professional look, meaning you don’t have to wear oversized or ill-fitting regular scrubs. You’ll appear presentable while staying comfortable.
Must-Have Features
You need to consider a few important features to ensure that you get the best possible fit for your comfort.
They are:
- The maternity scrub should have adjustable wavebands to accommodate the changes in your shape.
- The fabric should not be stretchable but also breathable to help you cool during long shifts and reduce discomfort caused by heat or sweat.
- High-quality fabrics are essential as they need to withstand frequent washing and even resist staining.
8 Best Maternity Scrubs
The following maternity scrubs are some of the best on the market. You can trust that these are both quality and comfy for a working mom.
- Cherokee Workwear Maternity Scrubs
- WonderWink Maternity Scrubs
- Koi Lite Maternity Scrubs
- Healing Hands Maternity Scrubs
- Grey’s Anatomy by Barco Maternity Scrubs
- Landau Maternity Scrubs
- Dickies Gen Flex Maternity Scrubs
- Figs Maternity Scrubs
Are they Worth the Money?
What might seem like an additional expense could easily become your best purchase. The section highlights why maternity scrubs can be worth the investment for healthcare professionals during pregnancy. Let’s take a look!
- Enhanced Comfort During a Physically Demanding Job
Healthcare work is physically demanding and often requires long hours on your feet, bending, lifting, and reaching. As your pregnancy progresses, regular scrubs may become tight and uncomfortable, restricting movement and causing discomfort around the waist and belly. Maternity scrubs are specifically designed to provide the extra comfort and support needed, with flexible waistbands and stretchy materials that adapt to your changing shape. This can make a significant difference in your comfort level throughout a shift.
- Professional Appearance Without Compromising Fit
Regular scrubs that don’t fit properly can look oversized or baggy if you size up, or they may be too tight if you stick to your usual size. Maternity scrubs are tailored to accommodate your bump without compromising your professional appearance. They offer a more polished fit, ensuring you continue to look presentable while maintaining comfort, which can be especially important in patient-facing roles.
- Long-Term Value for Multiple Pregnancies
If you plan to have more than one child, maternity scrubs can be a valuable long-term investment. High-quality maternity scrubs made from durable materials can last through multiple pregnancies, providing ongoing comfort and support. Additionally, some brands offer versatile designs that can be worn postpartum for a while, allowing you to get even more use out of them.
- Reduced Strain and Fatigue
Features like adjustable waistbands, supportive belly panels, or elastic fabric can help alleviate pressure on your lower back and reduce muscle strain, especially during long shifts. This added support can help minimize fatigue and discomfort, making it easier to stay focused on your tasks.
- Better Than Adapting Regular Scrubs
While it may be tempting to just size up on regular scrubs, this often leads to a poor fit that can still feel restrictive. Maternity scrubs are designed with the specific needs of pregnancy in mind, ensuring that you have the room you need without compromising the functionality of your uniform. The added cost is often outweighed by the enhanced comfort and mobility they provide.
- Resale or Donation Value
Once you no longer need your maternity scrubs, you may be able to resell them or donate them to someone else in need. Many healthcare professionals look for gently used maternity scrubs to save on costs, so there is potential to recoup some of the investment. Additionally, donating maternity scrubs can be a great way to help out a fellow healthcare worker.
Conclusion
If you’re a healthcare professional who wants to stay comfortable while maintaining a professional appearance, maternity scrubs are perfect for you! They can make all the difference in the world by supporting your well-being at work.
Don’t opt for just any maternity scrub. Instead, focus on features like adjustable waistbands, stretchy and breathable fabrics, and durable construction. This way, you can work comfortably and confidently as your body changes in the next couple of months.
