Let”s explore the unique shapes and sizes of plus size pregnancy bumps and celebrate their diversity. You’ll also discover tips on how to style your bump shape.
Pregnancy looks different for everyone!
Seeing a pregnant body like yours can make all the difference in feeling understood and not alone. Whether you have a D-shaped belly or a B-belly, your bump is the perfect home for your baby.
By sharing our stories and experiences, we can create a supportive community where all pregnant bodies are honored and uplifted, so let’s begin!
Influences on Plus Size Pregnancy Bump Shapes
Before we review the various plus size baby bump shapes, let’s discuss the factors that influence the appearance of bumps during plus size pregnancy.
Belly shapes during pregnancy can vary widely due to a number of factors:
Body Fat Distribution
Individuals with higher body fat distribution around the waist and hips may experience a wider belly shape, causing the pregnancy bump to extend horizontally.
Muscle Tone and Structure
The strength and tone of the abdominal muscles can influence how the belly expands. Weaker or more relaxed muscles might cause the belly to spread to the sides or form a B-shape.
Baby’s Position
The baby’s position can affect someone’s pregnancy belly shape. If the baby is lying sideways (transverse position) or in a position that pushes more against the sides of the uterus, the belly can appear wider.
Genetics
Genetic factors influence how and where the body stores fat and how the skin and muscles respond to stretching, impacting the shape of plus size pregnacy bumps.
Previous Pregnancies
The number of previous pregnancies affects abdominal muscle tone and skin elasticity, leading to variations in belly shape.
Carrying Twins or Multiples
Carrying more than one baby can significantly affect the shape and size of the pregnant belly.
Amniotic Fluid Levels
The amount of amniotic fluid can impact the size and shape of the belly. Higher levels can cause the belly to appear larger and more rounded. Lower levels might result in a smaller, more compact bump.
Placenta Position
The location of the placenta (anterior, posterior, low-lying) can affect the outward appearance of the pregnancy bump.
Uterus Shape
The shape and orientation of the uterus can influence how a pregnant body looks. Some may have a tilted or retroverted uterus, which can affect belly shape.
Weight Gain
The overall weight gain during a plus size pregnancy can influence the shape and size of the belly.
Physical Activity
The level of physical activity and fitness before and during pregnancy can affect muscle tone and, therefore, the shape of a pregnancy bump.
There are many pregnancy exercises that can help you feel great and reduce increased risks during a plus size pregnancy.
Understanding these factors helps recognize the normal variations in pregnancy belly shapes.
Your bump may change from one pregnancy to the next, and stretch marks are just a natural part of the process.
Plus Size Baby Bump Shapes
There are many variations of plus size pregnancy bellies, including D-shaped bellies, B-bellies, B-bellies with an apron belly, and even instances where there is little to no noticeable change.
We’ll share tips for dressing all shapes of plus size pregnancy bumps, but remember to take or leave whatever works for you! Most importantly, embrace your unique bump and rock your style with confidence.
D-Shape Belly
As the name suggests, the D-shaped belly resembles the letter “D” when viewed from the side.
With a smooth, rounded front, this pregnancy shape frequently appears in pregnancy magazines and media.
However, even a “common” belly shape can be diverse! D-shape bellies can vary in size, roundness, and how they change over time.
Here are some variations of having a D-shaped belly during a plus size pregnancy.
Round Plus Size Pregnancy Belly
A round pregnancy belly typically appears more uniformly spherical compared to other belly shapes. This shape creates a smooth, rounded bump with a distinct contour across the abdomen.
Dressing Tips
Maternity Dresses with Stretch: These dresses accommodate the growing bump and highlight the round shape.
Wrap Dresses: These are adjustable dresses that can be tied above the belly, enhancing its roundness.
Fitted Tees and Tanks: These tops and tanks snugly fit around the belly, showcasing its shape.
High Plus Size Pregnancy Belly
A high belly sits predominantly above the waist, making the bump appear higher on the torso. This shape often results in a more pronounced upper abdomen, with the bump starting closer to the ribcage and extending outward.
Dressing Tips
Empire Waist Tops and Dresses: These styles emphasize the area below the bust and accommodate the bump’s high placement.
Supportive Bras: Ensuring good support can help manage the bump’s visual placement.
We also have resources for plus size nursing bras and plus size pumping bras for you!
Peplum Tops: These tops flare out just below the bust, complementing a high bump.
Low Plus Size Pregnancy Belly
A low belly sits closer to the pelvis, sometimes extending downwards. This position can create the feeling that the baby is “lower” in the abdomen and can sometimes be more noticeable later in pregnancy.
Dressing Tips
Longer Tops: Tops that cover the hips and extend past the belly can create a balanced bump silhouette.
Maternity Pants with a Belly Panel: These pants provide support and smooth out the appearance of a lower belly.
Tunic Tops: These tops flow over the bump and provide extra coverage and comfort.
Wide Plus Size Pregnancy Belly
A wide plus size pregnancy belly extends more horizontally across the waist rather than protruding forward, creating a broader silhouette.
Dressing Tips
Side-Ruched Tops: These tops can help create a more defined shape and gather the fabric at the sides, providing a more tailored look.
Flowy Blouses: Loose-fitting blouses can drape over the bump without clinging too tightly.
A-Line Dresses: These dresses offer ample room for a wider bump.
D-Belly Pictures
If you assumed you couldn’t have a D-shaped belly during pregnancy, you’ll be thrilled to discover the variety of D-shaped plus size bellies below.
“You can have a NORMAL and EASY and HAPPY pregnancy even if you weigh more!”
“I clicked this picture a night before I went to the hospital for my c-section at 37 weeks and one day.”
“I had my daughter four days later. She was my third full term pregnancy and the hardest one on my body. I am always marked high-risk when I’m pregnant due to my BMI but this was the first pregnancy that blood pressure issues actually made me truly high-risk.”
“I was induced the next day, so the last bump pic I ever took.”
“My whole pregnancy felt amazing, and I shared weekly bump photos to my “close friends” on Instagram, because I was certain most people hadn’t seen a fat woman pregnant up close. I started out weighing around 280 lbs and kept waiting to reach 300 (but at 38 weeks I still haven’t quite!). Carrying my wife’s baby has been so empowering as a queer, fat person, and I’m on the best terms I’ve ever been with my body, even though my hips hurt all the time, and my first trimester was rocky, and my sleep is in the trash. This body is doing an incredible thing, growing my child, and I’m so grateful for its strength, its resiliency, and it’s stretch marks.”
“It took me awhile to be comfortable taking photos during my pregnancy. I didn’t share them with anyone, not even my wife. But then something changed and I was so proud of what my body was doing. I’m 37 weeks pregnant in this photo…baby boy arrived exactly one week later.”
“I never took pregnancy photos but I do have the occasional selfie. I wish I had a few more progress photos to compare because I didn’t really ever get to a point where I felt like I “looked” pregnant. It would be nice to have those progress photos to compare. Even some of my coworkers didn’t realize I was pregnant until after my baby was born, and I set my out-of-office to say I was on parental leave! So take those photos, even if they only live in the cloud.”
B-Shaped Pregnant Belly
The B-shaped belly resembles the letter “B” from the side, with an indentation or fold around the navel area.
A B-belly during pregnancy can occur for several reasons.
It is often seen in individuals with higher body weight, but it can happen at any size.
Factors influencing a B-belly include the health of your fascia (the connective tissues beneath the skin), your overall body size and weight, past pregnancies, and your natural belly shape.
Despite being common, the B-shaped belly is underrepresented in pregnancy imagery. Embracing and acknowledging this normal variation in pregnancy belly shapes helps those with B-bellies feel less alone.
Clothing for a B-Shaped Belly
Layering: Use a fitted tank top under a looser, flowy top to create a smooth appearance.
High-Waisted Maternity Pants: These pants can help support the lower part of the belly, reducing the indentation.
Belted Dresses: Placing a belt just above the bump can create a more defined shape.
B-Belly Pregnancy Pictures
Below, you’ll see beautiful B-belly pregnancy pictures.
“Although I was over halfway through my pregnancy, most people did not know I was pregnant. This picture captures when I finally felt comfortable enough (after 2 miscarriages) for a public announcement. So the photo was taken in my cousin’s backyard on my birthday.”
“I was a 3x, size 24 in these pictures.”
“I didn’t care that I didn’t have the perfect belly – I was happy my son was okay.”
Learn more about having a B-Belly during pregnancy: What is a B Belly During Pregnancy?
B-Belly with Apron Belly
There’s another variation of a B-belly that deserves its own section: having a B-belly with an apron belly.
Since we’ve already discussed what a B-belly looks like, let’s briefly talk about an apron belly and then explore what it’s like to have both at the same time.
Apron Belly
An apron belly, also known as a pannus, refers to a larger lower belly that hangs down like an apron.
This shape is influenced by the stretching and folding of skin and fat, which can occur due to weight gain, pregnancy, or previous pregnancies.
An apron belly is a natural and common occurrence, and it can vary greatly in size and appearance.
Having a B-Belly with an Apron Belly
Having both a B-belly and an apron belly means your belly will have a double curve with an additional lower belly fold.
Clothing for a B-Belly with an Apron Belly
Layering: Use layering to your advantage by wearing a supportive tank top underneath a flowy top or dress. This helps provide structure and smoothness while maintaining comfort.
Empire Waistlines: Clothing with an empire waistline can accentuate the upper part of your belly while allowing the lower apron belly to drape naturally.
Maternity Bands: Plus size maternity bands can offer extra support for the B-belly and apron belly, helping to distribute weight more evenly and providing comfort.
Supportive Underwear: High-waisted, supportive plus size maternity underwear can also help smooth the silhouette.
B-Belly with Apron Belly Pictures of Plus Size Pregnancy
Below, you’ll see photos of people proudly sharing their B-belly with an apron belly, helping others feel less alone and more empowered during their pregnancy journeys.
“This is one of the only bump photos I took, even as a photographer who loves self-portraits. I’m glad I convinced myself to document those last few weeks before the baby arrived!”
“I was told growing up that women who are fat cannot have babies. I was told I had to lose weight in order to get pregnant as well as find a husband. So, I spent the first 27 years of my life ashamed of myself and scared to be close to anyone because how can someone love me when I don’t know how to love myself? Fast forward to my 30s when I met my wonderful husband before we even attempted to get pregnant. And I was already a few weeks along! I had some pelvic girdle pain and lots of morning sickness but overall I enjoyed my pregnancy. Feeling my baby kick and seeing my tummy grow even though it wasn’t your typical “pregnancy bump” I was so proud. I had my cousin take some photos for us. We got dressed up. And I’m so thankful I did this.”
“It is the only bump photo I have! I felt pretty that day and randomly took a photo at work. I’m so glad I at least have this one photo!”
“Grateful to have made it this far after previous loss.”
“31 weeks at our baby shower. I’ve always struggled with my self image, now and 70 lbs ago. I’m trying to love this body that is growing our sweet baby girl. Holding her will make it all worth it. Having the support and encouragement from family and friends is making all the difference.”
Learn more about having a apron belly during pregnancy: What is an apron belly?
The Transition from a B-Shaped Belly to a D-Shaped Belly
Before we end this section, there’s one important thing to note!
As pregnancy progresses, some individuals with a B-shaped belly notice their belly transforming into a D-shaped belly, especially near the end of pregnancy.
This change can occur with or without the presence of an apron belly as the baby grows and moves lower into the pelvis, stretching the abdominal muscles and smoothing out the dip that creates the B-shape. Some even say that “D” stands for delivery.
“My belly started out as a b-belly but shifted into a D-belly towards the end of my pregnancy.”
This shift can be an exciting and reassuring sign that your baby is getting ready to make their arrival.
If you experience this transition, embrace the change as part of your unique pregnancy journey. Celebrate the adaptability and strength of your body as it nurtures and prepares to birth your baby.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, contact your care provider.
Little to No Change During Pregnancy
For some, there might be little to no visible change in belly shape during a plus size pregnancy. While this is less common, it’s perfectly normal and nothing to feel ashamed about!
Every pregnancy is different, and body changes can vary significantly from one person to another. Embrace your unique journey and remember that healthy pregnancies come in all shapes and sizes.
Clothing to Emphasize a Pregnancy Bump
Maternity Belly Bands: These bands can help smooth out your belly, giving it a more defined, pregnant look.
Ruched and Draped Tops: Choose tops with ruching or draping around the belly area to create a more pronounced bump.
Peplum Tops and Dresses: The flare of peplum styles below the waist can help accentuate your bump.
Empire Waist Dresses and Tops: These styles cinch just below the bust, drawing attention to the belly area and enhancing the pregnant look.
Little to No Change Pregnancy Photos
As we shared above, there’s nothing wrong with not noticing a change in your belly shape during pregnancy. With that said, some may not see a significant difference until they look back at photos of themselves pregnant.
“This is my only bump photo, taken just before leaving for the hospital. I wish I had taken more! I don’t think the lack of photos has a ton do with body image; more with not being sure about how I felt about becoming a mom. However, I only gained 14 pounds in my pregnancy and did not have much change in my belly, so I think that made me feel kind of awkward about photos. It was tough to not be publicly recognized as pregnant. I teach at an elementary school. The kids had no clue I was pregnant, even the day before delivery. That hurt because I had a coworker who was pregnant at the same time, and the changes to her body were very visible. Your Instagram account helped me so much!”
“My whole pregnancy I was convinced I didn’t look pregnant. It wasn’t until after I gave birth I noticed a difference.”
Plus Size Bump Progression
As you’ve seen above in all the wonderful photos, pregnancy is a dynamic process, and your bump can change in shape and size as your baby grows.
In the early stages of pregnancy, your bump might not be noticeable, especially if you have a higher BMI. You may notice more changes as you progress through the second and third trimesters.
Here are some ways your bump might progress:
Early Pregnancy
In the first trimester, you may experience bloating, making your belly feel firmer. This is a wonderful time to start embracing your belly, long before it becomes a baby bump.
Second Trimester
The second trimester is often when a bump becomes noticeable.
Your uterus expands, and the baby grows rapidly, causing the belly to round out or change shape.
17 weeks 4 days pregnant
However, for some plus size individuals, it’s still common for a visible bump not to appear yet.
Third Trimester
For many, more noticeable changes in belly shape occur during the third trimester. You might notice it dropping lower as the baby prepares for birth.
39 weeks pregnant
As we’ve reiterated throughout this guide to plus size pregnancy bumps, all of these experiences are variations of normal. And if you never notice a change in your belly shape, you’re still experiencing pregnancy and can have a healthy outcome.
Additional Considerations
Swelling and Fluid Retention: Increased swelling or fluid retention, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy, can affect the size and shape of the belly. Be sure to talk to your provider if you’re experiencing a lot of swelling or have any concerns!
Personal Perception and Body Image: Something that isn’t talked about often enough is how individual perceptions and feelings towards body changes can influence how one describes their belly shape.
Embracing Your Unique Bump
Embracing your plus size pregnancy bump means recognizing that beauty and normalcy come in all forms.
Here are some tips to help you love and celebrate your bump:
Positive Self-Talk: Remind yourself daily that your body is doing something incredible.
Connect with Others: Join online communities or local groups for plus size pregnant individuals to share experiences and support.
Document Your Journey: Take photos, write journal entries, or create a scrapbook to celebrate each stage of your pregnancy.
We can’t stress enough the importance of capturing plus size maternity pictures, even if you never post them on social media.
One of the biggest regrets we hear from people is not taking enough pictures during pregnancy. So don’t look back with regret—take all the photos!
Educate Yourself: Learn about the diversity of pregnancy experiences and belly shapes. Knowledge can be empowering and reassuring.
Celebrate with Fashion: Wear plus size maternity clothes that make you feel good. Experiment with styles that you love and that celebrate your bump.
By embracing and celebrating the diversity of plus size pregnancy bumps, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all pregnant individuals.
Remember, your bump is the perfect home for your baby!
