When you’re getting ready for labor, the last thing on your mind might be what you're going to wear - but it can make a bigger difference than you think. While hospital gowns are the standard, many moms are opting for birth gowns for both comfort and control over their birthing experience.

Here’s why considering this shift could make your labor smoother and more comfortable.

Comfort and Convenience

Hospital gowns are designed for convenience, but often lack comfort.

The scratchy fabric, awkward ties, and oversized fit can make you feel less than your best during a moment when you deserve comfort. Further, they are not always as accessible as you would think. A lack of openings for access to the belly or the chest make them unideal for birthing women.

You don't want to be clothed in rough fabric that is constantly falling off the shoulder or getting in the way.

A birth gown, like the popular Lila Birth and Postpartum Gown, on the other hand, are made with soft, stretchable fabrics. That can be particularly important in labor, as sensations are heightened and even small irritations can become uncomfortable.

Materials that feel good on the skin keep you focused and relaxed, reducing stress during the process.

Accessibility Meets Modesty

One of the biggest advantages of opting for a labor gown is the blend of medical accessibility with personal privacy.

During labor, you'll need your gown to allow access for monitoring, IVs, and possibly epidurals. Many birth gowns are designed with easy-open panels and low backs, so your medical team has what they need without exposing more than you're comfortable with.

It’s about having control over what is revealed and when — a small but meaningful way to maintain a sense of modesty and control during labor.

Postpartum Considerations

Labor is just the start. In the postpartum period, having a labor and delivery gown that transitions easily into breastfeeding is a huge benefit.

Many birth gowns come with snaps or discreet openings for nursing, eliminating the need to fully undress every time you feed your baby. The right birthing gown can provide coverage while giving you the freedom to care for yourself and your recovery as well as for your newborn.

A Personalized Experience

Finally, choosing your own gown can help make the birth experience feel a bit more personal and empowering. Having something that feels like you in a clinical setting can keep you comfortable.

Whether you prefer a classic black, a calming pastel, or a floral print, birth gowns come in a range of styles and colors that let you express your personality — something that can offer a surprising boost of confidence during labor.

When considering a delivery gown, think about what makes you feel both physically and emotionally comfortable. It's not just about looking good — it’s about feeling in control and supported during a deeply personal experience.

So, while the hospital gown for labor may be a convenient default, exploring options like birth gowns could add an extra layer of comfort and empowerment to your birth experience.