It's one of those little Hollywood beauty "secrets" that everyone knows, but doesn't usually talk about. like liposuction, facelifts, or the fact that double-sided tape can be used artfully to create cleavage to die for. Heels. No, not their mere existence, but the fact that many women keep on wearing stiletto pumps, stacked-heel boots, wedge and even platform shoes during the nine months of pregnancy.

To heel or not to heel?
So some people are telling you "no" -- including perhaps your Ob/Gyn or midwife -- but your chic little heart is crying out for hellishly heel-ful glamour. What's a mama-to-be to do? You have three options: get flats, go for the moderate approach, or throw caution to the wind and tread carefully.

Flats: A low heel doesn't have to mean tennis shoes or fuzzy pink slippers. There are a ton of adorable and trendy flats out there so you know, you can still be stylin' even without the high heels. Suzanne Mitchell of Baby Mabel's in Solana Beach, California, suggests flip-flops for day wear. Surprisingly, Midwesterner Simonte of Belly Dance agrees: "We are huge fans of flip-flops! We have many dresses that can be dressed up or down, and a pair of flip-flops and a jean jacket make a summer sundress more versatile." Yes, these beach shoes are now considered fashionable and can be quite comfortable. "These days, you can find them in all colors and styles," says Simonte. "They are so affordable, you can have an entire collection for the summer."

Moderation: This means, quite simply: Don't wear high heels all day, every day. "If women persist in wearing high heels, there are ways to relieve some of the abusive effects," says the APMA. "They can limit the time they wear them, for example, alternating with good-quality oxford-type shoes or flats for part of the day." Just going for it: During her pregnancy, Skye Hoppus, cofounder of the Childish Clothing line of maternity and baby wear, told us, "I still love my stilettos!" If this sounds like you, we just ask you to pick shoes you feel super-comfortable walking around in. (Nobody wants to see a very pregnant woman tripping over an ant on the sidewalk.) And remember that all those people staring at you strutting your stuff either are concerned about your well-being (that's a nice thing, okay?) or are just totally jealous that, even pregnant, you're one stylish woman.

Whatever footwear you ultimately choose, let comfort be your guide. You really can find shoes that pamper your sole -- and your soul -- at the same time.

-Nancy J. Price

(Pictured: Kate Spade "Lover" in Black Satin, available at Zappos Couture for under $240)