Nursing jobs are quite physically demanding, with long shifts and constant movement. Hence, comfortable attire is essential for nurses, especially when they are pregnant. Prolonged standing and constant movement are a vital part of RN jobs, which is also the cause of back pain for many pregnant working women, including nurses. This is why maternity scrubs re especially designed to offer comfort and ease of movement during pregnancy. But the question is, are they worth it?

Many pregnant nurses swear by the comfort and flexibility these special maternity scrubs offer. But choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming out of so many options. Ill-fitting nursing attire can lead to fatigue and discomfort during long shifts. Consequently reducing productivity and increasing the risk of back pain. Prolonged discomfort and back pain can further lead to more complications for pregnant nurses, which can even go as far as causing injuries. 

Due to such challenges and the demanding nature of RN jobs, maternity scrubs can make a huge difference in alleviating pregnancy-related discomforts such as lower back and pelvic girdle pain. This not only helps nurses stay comfortable but also allows them to provide better patient care. Maternity scrubs offer the comfort and flexibility that pregnant nurses need to diligently perform their duties and continue to be productive in the highly demanding work environment with ease. 

So, let’s understand the importance of maternity scrubs and everything that pregnant nurses need to know about them. 

Why Maternity Scrubs Matter for Pregnant Nurses?

Thinking about maternity scrubs, the very first question that comes into mind is, why do they matter? What’s the difference between maternity scrubs and normal nursing uniforms? The thing is that pregnancy brings many physical changes to a woman’s body. Generally, pregnant women require more comfort and flexibility to accommodate these changes. However, usual nursing scrubs do not offer the level of comfort and support that pregnant nurses need to perform their duties without any problems. 

Here are a few benefits of maternity scrubs:

1. Maternity Scrubs Offer Enhanced Comfort

Pregnant nurses require more comfort to accommodate the physical changes in the body. RN jobs are already quite demanding. However, it becomes even more tiring for pregnant nurses. Hence, comfortable nursing scrubs that grow along with the body and reduce the pressure on the belly are essential. Maternity scrubs are made with stretchable fabrics that allow free movement for enhanced comfort.

2. Maternity Scrubs are Breathable 

Nursing jobs are very fast-paced work environments. Due to this, overheating, moisture building, and excessive sweating can become a huge issue. This problem can be even more severe for pregnant nurses, as the body temperature naturally increases during pregnancy. Hence, maternity scrubs are specially designed with this in mind. The breathable fabric of maternity scrubs prevents overheating and related problems.

3. Maternity Scrubs Have More Supportive Fit

Maternity scrubs are not only comfortable and flexible but also offer a better fit to support the body. The added posture support in maternity scrubs helps with back pain and lower body strain. Pregnant working women often complain about back pain. Due to this, maternity scrubs become an essential part of daily attire for pregnant nurses. 

4. Maternity Scrubs Are Highly Durable

Pregnant nurses need highly durable attire that can handle the wear and tear of long shifts and demanding RN jobs. Hence, maternity scrubs are designed to withstand the demanding nature of nursing jobs, providing long-lasting wear. 

5. Maternity Scrubs Balance Style with Functionality

During pregnancy, nurses need attire that accommodates the changing needs of their bodies. However, balancing professional attire with the comfort of maternity clothes can be a stretch. This is why maternity scrubs are designed to look professional while providing comfort. These maternity scrubs meet the hospital dress code for nurses without compromising comfort and support.  

How to Choose the Best Maternity Scrubs?

Choosing the right nursing maternity scrubs can make a huge difference. However, choosing the right one needs a few considerations. Hence, make sure your maternity scrub has some key features that are essential for pregnant nurses:

• Stretchable waistband— the very first thing that your maternity scrub should have is a stretchable waistband. Since the belly is growing gradually throughout the pregnancy, the stretchable waistband allows free movement and reduces the pressure from the belly.  
• Soft, breathable fabric— nursing jobs can cause overheating and moisture buildup. Hence, make sure the fabric used for the maternity scrub has moisture-wicking ability. This will give a cool and comfortable fit even in fast-paced RN jobs like telemetry nursing jobs or emergency room nursing jobs, where heat and humidity are major concerns.
• Good pockets for easy access— make sure your maternity scrubs have ample pockets for storing accessories for easy access, like pens, bandages, scissors, etc. This feature reduces the walking for pregnant nurses, offering easy access to necessary tools. 
• Easy maintenance— nurse jobs are already quite demanding, and on top of pregnancy, having to maintain your work attire can be frustrating. Hence, pick maternity scrubs that can be machine-washed and wrinkle-resistant to save much effort and time. 
• Professional look— hospitals have nursing dress codes that require nurses to be in professional attire. Hence, normal maternity clothes are not an option. This is why choose maternity scrubs that are compliant with the dress code without compromising comfort.  

Additional Tips for Pregnant Nurses

Pregnant nurses not only need good maternity scrubs, but the comfort on the job goes beyond that. Here are a few tips for pregnant nurses to be comfortable in their RN jobs:

1. During pregnancy, women often experience swelling and discomfort in the foot. This is why proper footwear is as important as maternity scrubs for pregnant nurses. Hence, pick supportive nurse shoes with good arch support to reduce the risk of foot fatigue and lower back pain during pregnancy.
2. Dehydration can be fatal during pregnancy. Although nursing jobs do not allow frequent breaks, try to stay hydrated and rest to maintain energy levels throughout your shift. 
3. Lower back and abdominal muscles are the most affected during pregnancy. Maternity scrubs offer support to these areas. However, additionally, using a belly band offers extra support and comfort, reducing strain on the lower back and belly.
4. Remote nursing jobs are a great alternative for pregnant nurses. In telehealth settings, remote nursing enables nurses to have more flexibility, easing the demanding nature of RN jobs for pregnant nurses. 
5. Explore healthcare staffing agencies to find the best shifts and nursing jobs that accommodate pregnant nurses. Collaborating with a nursing staffing agency will allow you to find jobs as per your requirements, ensuring comfort and a smoother work experience. 

Conclusion

Maternity scrubs are not just a need, it’s a necessity for pregnant nurses to perform their duties without compromising comfort. Maternity scrubs are designed to maintain comfort, productivity, and professionalism. Hence, they are truly worth the investment. The long shifts in labor and delivery nurse jobs, the fast-paced environment in PICU and NICU nurse jobs, and the demanding work of emergency room nursing jobs can all become fairly easy with the right fit maternity scrubs. 

If you are an expecting nurse still working in healthcare jobs such as travel nurse jobs, remote nurse jobs, or especially in RN jobs with hospitals and clinics, choosing the best maternity scrub can make all the difference. Hence, do not underestimate the impact of good maternity scrubs!