Clothing for pregnant women

Abstract

The types, number, sources and cost of outer garments, undergarments and shoes in the wardrobes of pregnant women were ascertained. The clothing was evaluated according to the likes and dislikes of the women for selected styles or garments, comfort in relation to the garment, ease of care, adaptability or garments to physical changes of the body and the usability of the garments after pregnancy.

Five maternity outer garments were designed incorporating features found suitable for clothing for pregnant women.

From the results of the study it appears that the pregnant woman today is an active person, frequently holding a job in addition to keeping house and participating in social, community and church activities. A women experiencing her first pregnancy tends to be younger and to have a smaller income than a woman in a second or later pregnancy. The average expectant mother begins wearing maternity garments in the fourth month of pregnancy.

The cut-out and drop-panel types of expansion are the preferred means for expanding maternity garments. The one-piece dresses seem to be the least satisfactory style of all maternity outer garments.

If all maternity outer garments were purchased new, the cost of the average wardrobe is about $93.00. Most outer garments are made of cotton with the exception of wraps, which are generally wool. Little use is made of man-made fibers for outer wear. The average cost of a wardrobe of maternity undergarments, if purchased new, would be about $34.00. Cotton and nylon are the preferred fibers for these garments.

Shoes worn during pregnancy are generally of the flat heeled type which the women have on hand.

Women in second and later pregnancies tend to make wiser selections in certain types or garments than women in first pregnancies.