Q. I have a summer beach vacation planned and I need a swimsuit. I'll be 7-1/2 months pregnant. The only thing that fits is a bikini but I feel really weird having so much of me (and the baby) exposed. Do they make suits for pregnant women, and what should I look for in a suit (cut, color, material) if I do have a choice?
Margo Dover, Portland Oregon

A..Margo, They most certainly do make maternity swimwear! Any local boutique should have at least a sampling of choices, if not you can try an online store for a fashionable selection. Some women are more comfortable wearing solid dark colors with minimizing effects, and some would prefer big bold prints ...it's simply a matter of taste!

There are plenty of fashions available the web and many companies that make comfortable, practical and Fashionable suits that should accommodate you fine at 7-1/2 months!

Please let us know if we can help you further, and enjoy your vacation!

Q. I have heard that aqua aerobics can be good exercise and fun when pregnant any thoughts. I have found a club near by but am unsure what, to wear. I have an old racing suit that is wearing thin, but it is doing little for me now that I am 25weeks
Ruth Farmer Indianapolis Indiana.

A.There is not a specific line of aqua workout clothing for pregnant women. Normal aqua-wear will give you the proper support provided you take size and the support it has into account. It is important to have an internal bra shelf that gives you the proper support. Alternately some women swear by sports bras particularly those bras which are adjustable in the shoulder and back. They can be worn underneath a top or out. and come in a range of fashionable colors.
When picking a bra top, or swimsuit you must consider your size. Just order a large enough size, with the highest percent of Lycra. Supplex would be the best fabric for you if you are looking for support, stretch and durability.

Water is the great maternity equalizer! If you haven't been in the water yet during your pregnancy,
we highly recommend it! You feel light as a feather and can move around without any jarring impact. You will love the way the water makes you feel! See your local press for exercise classes in your area, but check with your doctor before taking the plunge
One tip: be careful getting out, you will feel MUCH heavier when leaving the water and could lose your balance.

Be careful mommy and happy exercise!

Q. Maternity swimsuits for size 14/16 that look chic? I live on the beach and my boyfriend is always asking me if I want to watch him surf, any suggestions to look slimmer and hide the bump?

Emily London, San Deago California:

A..Emily,
Living near the ocean, a suit is a must for the Summer.

If you're conscious about your legs, go for a style with a flattering skirt. Most maternity swimwear comes with either a shelf without bra cups, or a shelf with soft cups, but for extra support in the bust, try a racer back, t-back, or halter style with wide straps. You might also feel more comfortable with a lined suit, rather than unlined. A deep V-neck will have a minimizing effect on your bustline.

Most maternity swimsuits have a very loose panel in the front, which is useful in the latter stages, this can be hidden with a wrap around.

Red 'O' Dare

Q. Greetings Auntie Mable,
Do you always have to wear solid colors such as black for a maternity swim suit when you are getting big? I mean, really, BIG! I'm 7 months and waiting , there is no way to hide it, so is color okay? I was looking at a red swimsuit that fit well and was made well, but though, eh, its not black, I should only wear black. your thoughts?
Victoria Colin, New York

A.Victoria,
Black does not always do the trick, celebrate your curves There is no law that you have to wear black as many silhouettes that flatter. Try rouching , stripes going length wise and empire waist defines waist & bust. Try miracle suit who carries the best one piece maternity control suit. Clever use of strong colors can divert the eye.

Why not go for the red . Pregnant women deserve to swim, just because you're pregnant doesn't mean you should fade into the background!

Q. Its a really stupid question, but can wearing a somewhat tight bra ( around my body not the cup) harm the baby in any way cutting off the circulation somehow?I just bought several bras 2 weeks ago and they are already getting snug below my breasts. What about bathing suits? I am 15 weeks pregnant and I really don't want to buy a maternity bathing suit. How loose should the bathing suit fit? like it normally does or looser that usual? How do I know if it is too tight? Thanks for your help.
Anna Richie-Atlanta Georgia

A..Anna, Anna, Anna, There are no stupid questions... The answer to your question is that the band of your bra that goes around your chest will not harm the baby in any way. As to the tightness of any clothing around your tummy and the baby, if it is comfortable for you, it is OK. If it feels uncomfortably tight, then don't wear it...
If your serious about swimming a maternity suit is a must. It supports in the right places and can be more flattering than a conventional suit. Besides your developing figure will stretch and pull your normal suit, wearing it thin and making it unwearable.

Sensible selections