What's A B Belly? Let's Talk About It! (2024)

Having a B belly in pregnancy, also known as a plus size double belly, is something many pregnant people experience, but it doesn’t get discussed very often.

We’re answering your questions and talking all about having a plus size pregnant belly!

What does B Belly mean?

It can take longer to show when you’re plus size and pregnant. And when your stomach has a “waistband” in the middle, the belly gets “divided” between the top and the bottom – you have a B-shaped belly or double belly.

So, when you stand to the side, if your bump looks like a B rather than a D – you have a B belly.

We know it can be disheartening when the shape of yourpregnancy bumpisn’t what you imagined, so please know you’re not alone!

We’re answering your top questions and sharing photos of plus size pregnancy bellies below.

Disclosure: Plus Size Birth is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about these links in my disclosure policy.

What causes a B belly?

There are a few reasons why someone might have a stomach that looks divided.

If you spend a little time researching online, you’ll read a lot of people on message boards venting about having a double belly. Some blame their B belly on wearing pants that are too tight.

It has more to do with the band of connective tissue, or fascia, beneath the skin.

Fascial wellbeing and skin tightness significantly affect your stomach shape. Being well-hydrated, stretching, and yoga can help with your fascial health.

During pregnancy, your abdominal muscles and connective tissues become very stretched with your growing uterus. This can cause your stomach to stick out when the space between your left and right stomach muscles has widened.

Diastasis Recti can also change how your stomach looks.

If you have an apron belly, a lower belly area that hangs down, that can also give you a divided stomach.

What is a B belly in pregnancy?

So you might be wondering, will I have a B belly during pregnancy?

Having a B-shaped stomach is far more common when you have an overweight pregnant belly.

People with “muffin tops” usually get a B belly during pregnancy.

Know that carrying part of your bump high and part of your bump low is totally within the realm of “normal” and healthy.

If you start noticing any swelling, tenderness, or discomfort on the lower part of your stomach, be sure to inform your care provider because it can be a sign of edema.

What maternity clothes flatter a B belly?

Any form-fitting top or dress will show the shape of your belly during pregnancy. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with showing off and celebrating your B!

With that said, many people wonder how they can smooth out their bump. Belly bands are one of the best ways to conceal a B belly for those interested.

There’s a helpful list of plus size maternity bands and belts to find the size you need.

Combine a belly band with plus size maternity dresses (that are flowy below the bust area) or plus size babydoll tops and you’re almost always guaranteed to look pregnant without emphasizing the B.

Thankfully nowadays, it’s far easier to find plus size maternity clothes and clothing options for bellies of all shapes and sizes.

Does having a B belly affect pregnancy?

Beyond the appearance of your stomach, having a B belly doesn’t affect pregnancy. It also doesn’t have an influence on labor or the type of birth you’ll have.

With that said, your belly shape can make monitoring a little more challenging during nonstress tests and labor. So a great tip is to bring your belly band when you’re going in for monitoring or packing your hospital bag.

Wearing your belly band can help to hold the monitors in place.

When preparing to give birth, inquire if you can access wireless monitoring that often works better for plus size people during labor.

People with a larger lower abdominal area need special care when recovering from a c-section.

While having this belly shape is common during pregnancy, be sure to address any questions or concerns with your care provider.

Will my belly become D-Shaped?

Does a B belly go away during pregnancy?

Somewomen joke that they are ready todeliver when their B becomes a D. However when it comes to pregnant belly shapes, some people never experience a complete D belly.

This can be quite disappointing.

Yet, there are countless people who wouldn’t care about the shape of their body or how many stretch marksthey got just for the opportunity to be pregnant. So, try not to be so hard on yourself!

Let’s hear people talking about their plus size pregnant bellies.

“When I got pregnant, not only did I learn to embrace my body, but I owned it. I lost all sorts of modesty and showed it off like it was nothing. I even had my first ever professional photos of myself done. And if I say so myself, I was proudly a plus-sized pregnant goddess.” – Courtney

“I always thought that I would have that cute little D belly that regular girls have until I realized I wasn’t regular, and that was okay. I was growing life inside me.” – Kayla

“Wow! I just thought I had a fat pregnant belly. And now I feel a little less alone knowing a b belly is pretty common.” – Sarah

“Support bands are great for shaping. They also relieve a great deal of pelvic pain, and I love Belevation support underwear.” – Betsy

“Being pregnant totally changed how I view my body and that my body is able to do amazing things.” – Emily

“I wore a lot of babydoll-styled topsand remembered that I was growing a miracle!” – Rachel

Remember, having a B-shaped belly before, during, and after pregnancy is normal. So, embrace your bump!

Common FAQs about B Bellies

What causes a B belly?

A B-shaped pregnancy during pregnancy can be caused by a restriction of the connective tissue, or fascia, underneath the skin. Diastasis Recti can also impact your belly shape.

Are B bellies normal?

It’s completely normal to have a B belly before, during, and after pregnancy. Some people experience emotional distress when their belly shape or size doesn’t meet their expectations. It’s important to remember that pregnant bellies come in many sizes and shapes and have unique marks.

What should I wear to support my B belly?

Belly bands are helpful during pregnancy to support your belly and smooth out a b-shape. Maternity pants with a belly panel or leggings also enhance a D-shape. And these bottoms pair well with babydoll or asymmetricalstyle tops.