Buoyancy is a pregnant woman’s best friend. It allows the mother-to-be to move freely without the discomforts of pregnancy by allowing the water to do the work for her. The word swimwear however, might be a bit further down on her list of favorites. Many women are a bit uncomfortable with their new curves, but I have some simple Pool Rules (if you will) to help you find the suit that is right for you and to help you embrace the beauty of your new figure.

1. Must be supportive

2. Must be comfortable

3. Must be stylish

Some women do not understand the importance of having a maternity bathing suit. Forcing yourself into restricting swimwear is neither flattering nor healthy for you or your baby. Comfort and support are always primary considerations in maternity shopping. The maternity suit you pick may depend on how far along you are and how comfortable you are in exposing your baby bump and/or body in general.

A halter-style bikini offers plenty of support for your growing chest and allows ample space for your baby bump to breathe (by preventing tightness across the abdomen). This suit is for the confident mother-to-be. She can flaunt her baby-to-be in comfort. There are many different options as far as color, but I suggest a solid in lieu of a pattern, to not appear too flashy.

The modest mother-to-be might prefer a more concealing suit, something like a fashionable tankini. There are many different designs and cuts of tankinis. Some cling to your curves, while others are a bit more flowing (and can be a bit more forgiving, too). Tankinis come in several patterns, but also come in solids. Many women find that in using a patterned top she can show off her baby bump in a less ostentatious way than a bikini.

Another popular style of bathing wear is the sexy one-piece. They have become trendy and are very functional, as well. This bathing suit will provide you great mobility by holding your enviable curves perfectly in place.

Keep in mind that the bathing suit should have thick and adjustable straps. As the pregnancy months pass by, you may have to adjust your straps to accommodate your growing breasts and belly. As far as the bottom of the swimsuit is concerned, go for those that are wide and supportive for your shape. Skirted bottoms have also become a trend these days.

All these kinds can come in various designs, prints, and colors. Some of the examples in the long list include an adjustable halter tankini in retro black-and-white dots and solid two-piece bikinis in black and brown.

Overall, it is comfort mixed with your creative mind that helps you in shopping for the best maternity swimsuit. And through that, you can parade that blossoming body shape and celebrate the wonderful essence of motherhood.