Are your medical scrubs stretched over the new curves of your pregnant belly? If you're a parent-to-be and a healthcare provider, take a look at what you need to know about medical scrubs, fit, comfort, and safety.

Do You Need to Buy Specialty Scrubs?

Simply stated — no. While some companies do make maternity scrubs for pregnant providers, you may not need to buy specially designed work clothes. But this doesn't mean you shouldn't consider a specialty style. If this sounds confusing, it is. Every person is different — and has a different comfort level. What works for you, may not feel right on another pregnant co-worker.

Think about your regular maternity wardrobe. While you may have some designated "maternity" pieces, it's also possible you feel perfectly comfortable in your drawstring or elastic-waist pants and over-sized tops. If you routinely wear roomier regular (non-maternity) clothes in your out-of-the-workplace life, you may want to do the same on the job.

Should You Always Buy a Size Up?

Again, the answer to this question is also no. Even though you may feel completely comfortable in a larger t-shirt, you may find the brand of scrubs you typically buy just doesn't cut it. If a larger work-wear top or pants won't stretch across your belly, fits awkwardly, or interferes with your ability to work and move safely, a larger size isn't the answer. Specially-designed maternity wear is shaped differently than unisex scrubs.

If you're not sure whether to buy a new wardrobe of maternity-wear or not, test one new pair. Make sure the scrubs are comfortable and easy to work in.

When Should You Invest in New Scrubs?

Whether you want specialty maternity work clothes or a roomier size, at some point in your pregnancy you will need to swap your regular scrubs for a new pair. It's not likely you'll need new clothes for work immediately after you find out you're pregnant. While your body will eventually change, most people don't see a dramatic difference early on.

According to the Mayo Clinic, those who start pregnancy at an average/normal weight (not under or overweight) may only gain one to four pounds in the first trimester. This means you may still have plenty of room left in your work clothes. As you progress in your pregnancy, your belly bump and other body changes may make your pre-baby scrubs feel tight.

There's no universal time to invest in new work medical scrubs when you are pregnant. Instead, you'll need to buy specialty gear or move up one size when your top, pants, or both are uncomfortable. If you can't easily move or your clothes hurt your body, you're ready to make a change.