However, it was met with criticism from some who feel the shapewear will put pressure on women to obsess over their bodies during pregnancy.
Kim, 39, has now issued a lengthy statement via Twitter going into detail about why she wanted to include maternity wear.
‘To anyone who has an issue with maternity solutionwear, and if you haven’t been pregnant before you may not know the struggle of what it’s like carrying all of this weight the way I did along with millions of strong women, @skims maternity line is not to slim but to support,’ she began.
‘The belly part doesn’t slim your belly, it’s actually sheer and a thinner layered material compared to the rest of the garment. It provides support to help with the uncomfortable weight being carried in your stomach which affects your lower back and the compression on the leggings helps with pain relief caused by swelling.
‘It is also worn after you have given birth and provides the comfort and support that most women need after delivery especially if you are recovering from a cesarean,’ she continued.
Kim went on to reveal how Skims had been contacted by ‘tens of thousands of pregnant women’ requesting the maternity line, adding that she ‘personally needed [it] when [she] was pregnant [herself]’.
The reality star added: ‘Based on the majority of positive feedback we have received so far from pregnant women around the world, I am incredibly proud to provide a solution that will provide comfort and support during the times that we all need it most, during pregnancy and after.’
One critic had earlier complained: ‘Why would you need shape wear while pregnant? I always fully embrace it.’
Kim Kardashian WestWhat you’ve been waiting for: @SKIMS Maternity is coming soon! Introducing Maternity Solutionwear™ that offers the best in comfort and support for your changing body during and after pregnancy. Launching on Wednesday, September 16 at 9AM PT / 12PM ET in 9 colors and in sizes XXS - 5X exclusively at SKIMS.COM. Join the waitlist now to receive early access to shop.
Another wondered: ‘Isn’t wearing shapewear dangerous for your a pregnancy putting that pregnancy at risk?’
‘Is that even good for the baby and belly ? Don’t you want it not to be compressed ? Pass,’ one agreed.
But jumping to Kim’s defence, one follower countered: ‘I don’t get it, a lot of other brands sell maternity shape wear but so many are complaining about hers, this isn’t something that’s new.’
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
