Have you ever wondered which nursing bra is good for you? Great! You are about to see some of the best ones.
Nursing bras come in different categories. You have the sleep nursing bras, the everyday ones, those with molded cups, and the extra supportive ones.
So, how can you tell which one is the best nursing bra? Don’t sweat it. I have compiled a simple list to help you make the perfect decision for the comfort of you and your baby.
Although many mothers do not see a nursing bra as an essential item, it makes sense to get one.
They allow for easy nursing, pumping and they are designed to make you feel comfortable during the breastfeeding stage.
Regular bras were never meant for this purpose.
Here are 10 of the best nursing bras available on the market with their features. Look through each one and select your preferred choice.
When shopping for a nursing bra, you should look out for the right size, presence of lining, padding, and some extra hooks, etc.
You will also need to consider other factors such as cost, breast size, comfort, versatility, and so on.
This list is a compilation of the best nursing bras based on all these factors.
Let’s dive in:
Related:The 10 Best nursing tanks
Best Overall: CAKYE 3 Pack Maternity Nursing Sleep Bra
If you need a nursing bra that keeps you at ease while you sleep, then you must try out this amazing bra by Cakye. It has no hooks, clasps, or underwire so you do not have to worry about any form of discomfort. You would have a great feeling all day and night long.
It comes with an elastic-free band and is made from ultra-soft materials to further enhances your comfort. It doesn’t pinch.
A good nursing bra allows for easy breastfeeding, and Cakye, is a perfect example of a good bra. Its one-handed pull-aside cups and cross-over front design allow for swift breastfeeding.
This nursing bra comes with a built-in bag where you can insert nursing pads which firmly holds your breasts. It is made from ultra-stretchy materials, so you don’t have to worry about your breasts squeezing or constricting.
With Cakye, you never have to worry about the shoulder straps falling off. The lovely racerback design prevents this from happening.
Any woman who is pregnant or breastfeeding can use this bra. It is versatile.
- Has a simple crossover front design
- Very Soft
- Made of 5% spandex and 95% cotton
- One-handed pull aside
- Features a built-in bag where you can insert your breast pads
- It has no underwire
- Designed for fluctuating breast sizes
- Brand: Cakye
- Model: B0813BXPBG
- Comes in multiple colors and sizes (small, medium, large and x-large)
- High-quality cotton material
- Soft on skin
- Perfect for fluctuating breast sizes
- Comes with full coverage & tender support during pregnancy when you are asleep
- It comes with a U-back design to help reduce pressure on your back and shoulders. This makes the bra relaxed and very comfortable
- If you need a firm and compressing bra, this may not be your best choice
Related:The 10 Best breast pumps
Cake Maternity Cotton Candy Seamless Nursing Bra Key
Cake Maternity Cotton Candy is a best seller and a multi-award-winning bra. This soft and seamless maternity bra was knitted with premium NILIT Softex Microfiber Nylon 6.6 yarn, which gives it a silky feel. Its natural second-skin effect helps to keep you comfy during your pregnancy and breastfeeding phase.
As your shape changes during pregnancy and childbirth, the nursing bra changes in size and shape to fit your growing body, thanks to its super-stretchy ability.
This luxurious nursing bra was designed with molded cups and structured panels. It is wire-free and has been confirmed to be skin-friendly intimate wear.
With the Cake Cotton Candy maternity bra, you’ll have no problem with support and comfort.
Also, it is versatile. You can wear it as a sleep, sport, lounge, yoga, or work bra. It can also be worn under maternity clothes.
It is compatible with other maternal products like Bellababy, Spectra Baby, and Elvie electric breast pumps.
Feeding a newborn has never been this easy with the Cake Maternity Cotton candy bra. It comes with an easy clip down and up feeding access which makes it possible to hold your baby and breastfeed with one hand.
- Pull-On closure
- Made of 90% Nylon and 10% Elastane
- Machine wash
- premium NILIT Softex Microfiber Nylon 6.6 yarn
- wire-free nursing bra with molded cups and structured panels
- Super stretchy
- Brand: Cake Womens Intimate Apparel
- Model: 27-1015
- Feels good on your skin
- Supportive
- Quality nursing clip to provide easy access while breastfeeding
- provides superior comfort
- Has a seam-free design
- Stretchy and can adapt to your changing shape
- It is very easy to wash
- Ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
- It has a plain design
- It does not look so good under strappy tops
Simple Wishes Hands Free Pumping Bra
If you are breastfeeding exclusively, then you may need the Simple Wishes Hands Free Bra along the way. This convenient bra was designed to hold your breast pump flanges well.
This bustier style bra comes with a 10″ adjustable Velcro back panel, which helps you feel comfortable despite the changes in your body. Another major benefit is that it works with all major brands, which include Philips AVENT, Medela, Evenflo, Bellema, Lansinoh, and Spectra Baby.
The combination of soft cotton and spandex gives this nursing bra a smooth soft feel. You’ll love it. This nursing bra is made from 83% soft cotton and 17% spandex to help make you more comfortable.
Additionally, the seams have been designed with high-quality materials, so you don’t have to worry about irritation even if you have sensitive skin. It has four overlying sheets of fabric to help secure and maintain a tight fastener for bottles and also providing a simple and modest cover for your breasts.
With this Simple Wishes Hands Free Pumping Bra, nursing mothers can perform a variety of tasks such as type documents, have phone conversations, read books, or magazines as they are pumping.
The bra also features a secure bottle-holding design to help reduce milk spillage. This makes pumping and milk production far easier and better.
Nursing mothers know how long it takes to pump breast milk and what is worse is they have to do so regularly. This is why the freedom the Simple Wishes Hands Free Pumping Bra gives them to do other tasks is of huge benefit.
The Hands Free Pumping Bustier Bra is compatible with all electric pump and allows you to pump both breasts at the same time. The bra is very versatile and its unique design allows you to wear it in various. For example, you may decide to wear it as a tank or a strapless band. It is very easy to wear and remove and you do not have to pull your clothes.
It features an elastic reinforcement that has built into the bra’s top to help it become more secured and prevent slipping.
- Hands-free breast pump bra
- Made of 83% cotton, 17% spandex
- Fully adjustable
- Full coverage
- Convenient and customizable
- Brand: Simple wishes
- Model: 103
- Product weight: 1.6 ounces
- Hands free and easy pumping
- Can work with any electric breast pump
- Can pump breast milk on both sides simultaneously
- Has a soft feel
- Comfortable and supportive
- Machine washable
- It cannot be worn for an extended time
BRAVADO DESIGNS Women’s Body Nursing Bra
The Bravado! Seamless Nursing Bra is perfect for pregnant and nursing mothers. It is made of soft and stretchy fabric that hugs your growing body perfectly without hurting your comfort. It is wireless and its seamless design further enhances your comfort.
This nursing bra comes with a one-handed clip and un-clip design which makes it easy to open, feed your baby, and close. For maximum contact with your baby, it features a full drop away bra cup design.
It features molded cups with removable foam inserts so it can be worn everywhere, every day. Whether you are at home or want to go to the office or mall, this bra is perfect for you.
It is made from really soft fabrics that accommodate your changing shape. It comes in various colors and is suitable for all nursing mothers no matter your breast size.
Another unique feature of this bra is that it can be converted to a regular bra. When you are done nursing, simply use the conversion kit to convert it.
- Lace-up closure
- Made of 60% cotton,40% polyester
- Machine washable
- wireless and seamless
- Super stretchy
- Brand: Bravado! Designs
- Model: HS-11441
- Soaks up leaks
- Supportive
- Has a seamless design
- 4 way stretchy to accommodate your changing shape
- Sturdy clips
- Has multiple color options, so you can choose according to your taste
- Dry Clean Only
Kindred Bravely Nursing Sleep Bra
The word comfortable and Kindred Bravely are synonymous. There are only a handful of nursing bras that can compete with the kindred bravely nursing bra especially when it comes to comfort.
It is one of the few nursing bras to be labeled as Mom’s Choice Award Winner. So, you see! The Kindred Bravely nursing sleeping bra is not just good, it is excellent.
This nursing bra is made out of a combination of 92% Rayon of Bamboo and 8% Spandex, making it an extra soft nursing bra. It comes with no clasps, clips, or hooks to mess with.
Since the bra can accommodate fluctuating breasts, you may wear before you deliver your baby or after. Both times are okay. For your comfort sake, the bra was designed with a racerback design and an elastic band. And when you need to feed your baby, simply pull aside the cup and let your baby latch.
For moms with larger breasts, the Kindred nursing bra offers a “busty” option! However, some moms are extra busty and may find the elastic band to be too loose. So sizing may be an issue for some moms. Luckily, if you purchase it, and then discover this bra isn’t for you, the company offers a 100% money back. So you can return it.
The kindred bravely nursing bra provides you with gentle support when you are pregnant. This makes sleeping easier and is also perfect when nursing at midnights and also to keep your breast pads in position.
- Made of 92% Rayon of Bamboo, 8% Spandex
- Easy pull-on style
- Easy pull-aside breastfeeding access
- Comfortable
- Brand: Kindred Bravely
- Model: KB-FTBSTY
- Has a soft feel
- Easy nursing access
- Ideal for sleeping
- Comes in multiple cup sizes
- Comfortable and supportive
- May not be perfect for those who are extra busty
- Bras may shrink after wash
Cake Maternity Cotton Candy Seamless Nursing Bra
Cake Maternity Cotton Candy is a best seller. This soft and seamless maternity bra was knitted with premium NILIT Softex Microfiber Nylon 6.6 yarn, which gives it a silky feel. Its natural second-skin effect helps to keep you comfy during your pregnancy and breastfeeding phase.
As your shape changes during pregnancy and childbirth, the nursing bra changes in size and shape to fit your growing body, thanks to its super-stretchy ability.
This luxurious nursing bra was designed with molded cups and structured panels. It is wire-free and has been confirmed to be skin-friendly intimate wear.
With the Cake Cotton Candy maternity bra, you’l have no problem with support and comfort.
Also, it is versatile. You can wear it as a sleep, sport, lounge, yoga, or work bra.
Feeding a newborn has never been this easy with the Cake Maternity Cotton candy bra. It comes with an easy clip down and up feeding access which makes it possible to hold your baby and breastfeed with one hand.
- Pull-On closure
- Made of 90% Nylon and 10% Elastane
- Machine wash
- wireless with molded cups and structured panels
- Super stretchy
- Brand: Cake Womens Intimate Apparel
- Model: 27-1015
- Feels good on your skin
- Supportive
- Has a seam-free design
- Stretchy and can adapt to your changing shape
- It is easy to wash
- It has a plain design
- It does not look so good under strappy tops
Simple Wishes Hands-Free Breastpump Bra
If you are breastfeeding exclusively, you may need the Simple Wishes Hands Free Bra along the way. This convenient bra was designed to hold your breast pump flanges well. It has a secure bottle holding design which limits milk spillage and results in more efficient pumping.
This bustier-style bra comes with a 10″ adjustable Velcro back panel, which helps you feel comfortable despite the changes in your body. Another major benefit is that it works with all major brands, which include Philips AVENT, Medela, Evenflo, Bellema, Lansinoh, and Spectra Baby.
The combination of soft cotton and spandex gives this nursing bra a smooth soft feel. You’ll love it.
There is a word that perfectly describes this signature hands-free pumping machine – versatility. It has a convertible design that allows you to wear the bra as a strapless band, tank, halter style, or racer-back. Also, its elastic reinforcement and four-way layering system allow for a more secure fit. No fear of slipping.
- Hands free breast pump bra
- Made of 83% cotton, 17% spandex
- Fully adjustable
- Full coverage
- Convenient and customizable
- Brand: Simple wishes
- Model: XS-L
- Product weight: 3.52 ounces
- Hands free and easy pumping
- Can work with any electric breast pump
- Can pump breast milk on both sides simultaneously
- Has a soft feel
- Comfortable and supportive
- Machine washable
- May not be worn for an extended time
Simple Wishes DLITE Hands Free Pumping Bra
Save yourself the stress that comes with pumping breast milk. Get this Simple Wishes DLITE Hands Free Pumping Bra. It is a combination bra that lets you nurse and pump. Amazing, right!
This convenient bra was designed to hold your breast pump flanges well. It has a secure bottle holding design which limits milk spillage and results in more efficient pumping.
This bustier-style bra comes with a 10″ adjustable Velcro back panel, which helps you feel comfortable despite the changes in your body. Another major benefit is that it works with all major brands, which include Philips AVENT, Medela, Evenflo, Bellema, Lansinoh, and Spectra Baby.
The combination of soft cotton and spandex gives this nursing bra a smooth soft feel. You’ll love it.
There is a word that perfectly describes this signature hands-free pumping machine – versatility. It has a convertible design that allows you to wear the bra as a strapless band, tank, halter style, or racer-back. Also, its Elastic reinforcement and its four-way layering system ensure a more secure fit. No fear of slipping.
- Hands free breast pump bra
- Made of 83% cotton, 17% spandex
- Fully adjustable
- Full coverage
- Convenient and customizable
- Brand: Simple wishes
- Model: 105
- Product weight: 5.4 ounces
- Hands free and easy pumping
- Can work with any electric breast pump
- Can pump breast milk on both sides simultaneously
- Has a soft feel
- Comfortable and supportive
- Machine washable
- May not be worn for an extended time
HOFISH 3 Pack Nursing Bra Maternity
The HOFISH nursing bras are excellent. They come with a V neck to help you breathe, making you comfortable.
They feature a lovely push up padding which could make your breast look more attractive without compromising support.
The Hofish nursing bras are seamless and they stretch to fit your growing body.
Breastfeeding while wearing this bra is so easy. In all, they are soft, comfortable, and breathable.
- Made of 92%Nylon and 8%Spandex
- Has One-hand Access
- Shoulder straps are adjustable
- Hook & Eye Closure
- It is Seamless and Side Widening
- Molded Foam Cups are removable
- Soft and comfortable
- Brand: Hofish
- Model: ZMUS-FH-NursingBra08-S
- Hofish nursing bras are seamless
- They are supportive and side widening
- The bras are made of breathable materials
- Hofish nursing bras have removable molded foam cups
- They have drop-down cups for breastfeeding
- The Hofish bra has adjustable shoulder straps with hook and eye closure
- Comes in multiple colors and sizes
- Convenient, soft and supportive
- The bra is perfect for both pregnancy stage and while nursing
- Padding may shift while wearing it
Gratlin Women’s Maternity Seamless Nursing Bra
The Gratlin maternity nursing bra is another bestseller. It is lightly padded and has full coverage.
For optimal comfort, the bra is made of 85 percent polyamide and 15 percent spandex. It also features a natural silhouette and support.
Support is what every nursing mother looks out for in a nursing bra. And Gratlin Women’s Maternity Seamless Nursing Bra provides that and more. It is perfect to be used while going out.
This luxurious nursing bra features full drop-down bra cups that offer easy access to breastfeeding. You can remove and fix the molded cups whenever you feel like it.
Gratlin Women’s Maternity Seamless Nursing Bra has a tightly knitted underband that provides enough support and comfort. For extra support. There is an additional side panel support ribbing, which also smoothens underarm bulge.
It features front clips down and inner slings which grant you easy access when breastfeeding. In all, you’re guaranteed a perfect fit.
- Made of 94% Polyamide and 6% Spandex
- Stretchy
- Full drop down bra cups offer
- Tightly knitted underband
- Removable molded cups
- Side panel support ribbing
- Brand: Gratlin
- Light padding for greater comfort
- Full coverage
- Easy breastfeeding
- Underwire may not be comfortable
Biggest Mistakes Women Make When Buying a Nursing Bra
I never really saw the need to purchase a nursing bra even after delivery. That was a mistake on my part. My regular bras seemed unable to hold my growing boobs, plus I couldn’t breastfeed my 2-day old infant properly. It was then I knew I had to get one.
I hurried out and bought the first bra I laid my hand upon. It was cheap and I loved its color. This is perfect! I told myself. I tried it on when I got home and I was disappointed. I mean, I have never felt so horrible in my life. The bra couldn’t support my milk-filled tits. This was my second mistake.
Well, after my son clocked six months, I decided to do things right. No more mistakes this time. I invested in a comfortable nursing bra. Meanwhile, when I say comfortable, I do not mean expensive. Yes, it may take some time to find what perfectly fits you, but it’s worth your time.
The nursing bra I purchased this time around was everything I need in a bra. I mean it. It was soft, firm, supportive, comfortable and so much more. Oh, that joy I felt when I stood in front of a standing mirror. Sincerely, I was about ten pounds lighter. Thanks to the bra, my breasts were perfectly positioned on my chest. I wish I knew about this long ago.
Now, I don’t want you to make the same mistakes I made. So, I asked Tracey from Cake Maternity to educate us on how to find a good maternity bra right from the onset. Here’s what she said:
Coming into the world of breastfeeding can be a daunting experience, especially for a first time mum.
As a specialist in maternity and nursing lingerie, Cake Maternity understands how important a well-fitted comfortable bra is.
Here are some of the most common mistakes women make when choosing a nursing bra:
Not Having Enough Bras
During your 9 months pregnancy and immediately after your childbirth, your body will go through a lot of changes. That is why you need to purchase enough bras to serve you throughout the time your body will undergo these changes.
During the first three months of your pregnancy and six weeks after your child’s birth, we advise that you buy and use supportive seamless bras.
These types of bras are ultra-stretchy and will expand or contract to accomodate your breasts.
Once you leave this phase and your body and breasts have become normalized, you can then switch to a flexible wired bra.
Breast sensitivity
During this period, your breasts will be highly sensitive and you need to seriously consider this when purchasing a nursing bra.
There are a lot of nursing bra brands out there that design bras to tighten sand lift your breasts. This will be very uncomfortable for you and can also lead to other complications. Your breasts will often feel extremely sensitive during this time.
When buying bras, make sure they separate and fully support your breasts. This will help make you more comfortable and breastfeeding will also be easier.
Why do I need a nursing bra?
Nursing bras were designed to help you feed your newborn easily. Plus they are more comfortable for you, most especially in the first few months of breastfeeding.
They are made with soft fabrics and wider straps that perfectly accommodate engorged breasts. On top of that, they are stretch and offer support without irritating sore breasts or sensitive nipples. Also, many women find under-wires quite uncomforting as they can press on milk ducts. Makers of nursing bras observed this and started producing wire-free nursing bras.
Another thing a nursing bra can do for you is they conceal leaks and can hold breast pads. In all, nursing bras are healthier for you as a nursing mother.
How do I know which size bra to get?
Well, nursing bras are super stretchy and are built to accommodate size changes. So, you may start purchasing your bras at the end of your pregnancy. If by any chance, you have a department store or a maternity/breastfeeding store in your area; get proper advice on what’s best for your breasts.
If you don’t have one in your area, it’s fine. Simply follow the brands’ size charts. Every brand has its own nursing bra size calculator or nursing bra fitting guide. Most nursing bras come in these letter sizes (S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL), with S being the smallest and XXXl being the largest. So you see, they are designed for a broader range of band and cup sizes than a typical regular bra.
Also, you may look out for bras with multiple adjustment hooks at the back. The hooks allow for more flexibility as your body changes postpartum.
When you try on your new nursing bra, it should feel lovely. The band has to be low and should be under the breasts. Try it while sitting down. Get on your feet and see how much support the bra gives you. If you chose the right bra, it wouldn’t slide.
How many nursing bras do I need?
You may start with three bras. Here is the reason. There are times you may leak breastmilk into one of the bras, you’ll need to wear another. Also, you may want a softer bra for sleeping or during nighttime feedings. And a more supportive bra option when you’re out of your home.
However, you shouldn’t buy too many bras. At least not until you’re at least 3 to 4 months postpartum. The reason is that, your body and breasts need sufficient time to regulate after your baby is born. You’ll see that your breasts and entire body changes after pregnancy, so you’ll need a different style or size of a nursing bra with time.
What kind of nursing bra should I choose?
There is no definite answer to this question. It just depends on your breast shape and where you’ll be nursing your baby.
The kind of bra you use outside your home should offer you more convenience and privacy. You may not need so much privacy from the bra you use while at home.
Here are some of the most common nursing bra styles
Drop open/drop cup: This kind of nursing bra features a clip-on each strap. This means that you can open and pull down the cup to nurse your baby. Make sure you look for bra styles that allow you to unclip the bra with one hand. This is very important since you’ll be holding your little one with the other hand.
We love the amazing Signature Lace Cotton-Lined Nursing Bralette from Hanky Panky and the “nu nudes” line of seamless bras from Motherhood Maternity – a seamless clip-down bra which comes in a range of colors, including many skin tones, and sizes: original (for B-D cups), full-busted (D-G cups) and plus-size (1X-3X).
Crisscross/Crossover/pull-aside: these kinds of bras are better used as sleep bras. To use it, simply pull the bra aside to expose your breast for nursing.
Lift-up/pull-down: These are bralette-style bras that can be pulled down or lifted when nursing. They are perfect for nighttime feedings and are very comfortable as sleep bras.
Combination pumping & nursing bra: if you’ll be pumping breast milk for your little one, you’ll need this kind of bra to save you a lot of stress. It lets you nurse and pump.
There are lots of pumping and nursing bras available on the market. But, we particularly love the Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra from Kindred Bravely, a popular brand that tops many nursing moms’ lists for the best nursing bras. This nursing bra supports all standard pump flanges and comes in sizes S-XL, which also accommodates sizes 30C-42F.
Nursing sports bra: Does this sound strange? It shouldn’t. They are sports bras that let you nurse your baby easily! These nursing bras, like the ActiveSupport Nursing Sports Bra from Belly Bandit and Cadenshae’s Ultimate Nursing Sports Bra, balance support and comfort with an easy-to-use clasp or zipper for nursing.
Within all these styles listed, you’ll find out that there are a variety of models: the seamless or shaped cups, wireless or underwire, front closure, back closure or slip-on, and lined or unlined. So, you can have a variety of styles to choose which can suit your breasts.
How to Choose a Nursing Bra
Choose the right SIZE
Note this, you can’t underestimate size when it comes to bras. Size is everything.
If you choose to wear a cup specific bra, you should not be spilling out of the bra cups. Also, the cups shouldn’t be gaping.
The side straps should not be digging into your shoulders, and the back strap should not be inching up throughout your day.
Sincerely, it isn’t so easy getting it right, and it’s for some reason: A) you cannot trust the size you were pre-pregnancy; also B) sizing is quite different from country to country, brand to brand, etc.
So if it is possible, get yourself professionally fitted for a maternity bra. It’s worth it in the end. If you can’t, take some time to study size charts and break out the tape measure.
When you choose a Cake nursing bra, you may check out the company’s awesome Fitting Guide and Bra Size Calculator to help you choose which size will fit you well.
Buy it at the right time
Let’s speak the truth: The first few weeks after giving birth are a bit crazy, bust wise.
This is because your body is still trying to regulate its milk supply while trying to meet the needs of your baby.
You have to bear this in mind, when figuring out how to select a good nursing bra that works well for you – what suits you at 3 weeks postpartum is not likely to suit you at 9 weeks postpartum. So, for instance, if you’re planning to find a nursing bra that will still look good under your work clothes after your maternity leave is up, do not go out to buy one before your supply balances out. Remember, timing is crucial.
Choose the highest quality your budget will allow.
There is a difference between a bra of good quality and an inferior one. You will feel it. If you need something comfortable, supportive, and not irritating to your skin, pay for it (if you can afford it). I love working with my budget, but I’m sorry, my quality nursing bras have to fit into the budget.
I understand you are already spending a lot on diapers, baby food, clothes, and wipes. I understand you are finding it difficult taking care of yourself caring for your baby.
But believe me. If you wear a high-quality nursing bra, you will feel comfortable and up to the task, instead of a zombie who hasn’t had his bath for four days.
Find the perfect style
The perfect bra style for you is going to depend on some factors. The factors include timing, chest size, wardrobe, etc.
For mothers who need more bust support, an underwire style is much more preferable than the wire-free style. You may have heard that you should never wear bras with underwires when breastfeeding because they lead to plugged ducts, mastitis, and the likes. This may not be entirely true except if your underwire nursing bra stinks.
At the moment, I am obsessed with Cake Lingerie’s Croissant Smoothing Seamfree Flexi-Wire Nursing Bra. The wire is purposefully designed to sit under and around your breast tissue’instead of sitting directly on it, which can lead to plugged ducts, mastitis, and so on. Also, it is bendy so it’s never harsh on the skin.
And this is the best part:
It firmly keeps the girls up exactly where they are supposed to be! That’s a breastfeeding miracle!
Cake Lingerie produces nursing bras in all manner of styles’ seamless, underwire, non-wire, sports bras, plus-size, etc., so definitely, you can find a style that will do help you nurse properly while keeping your perfect figure.
Get professionally fitted
Throughout the lifetime of a woman, a woman’s breasts continue to change in size. It isn’t so obvious until around pregnancy and after delivery.
If you can, I suggest that you take the time to get professionally fitted at about eight months of pregnancy before your little one arrives. This is the approximate size of your breasts at 8 weeks post-birth when your body has finally learned to balance its milk supply.
A perfectly fitted bra will make you feel so amazing. It will also provide you with all the support you need.
Buy a bra that fits you well in the cup
So many women make the mistake of buying a bra that has extra room in the cup. They have a reason for doing this. But is it worth it? This is not the best choice to make and I do not advise it;
A non-fitting cup will not offer your busts all the support it needs. An ideal nursing bra is designed with a stretchy fabric on the top of the cup; this permits movement as the breast increases during milk production.
Invest in a bra that has 4-6 hooks and eyes on the back band
When you are getting fitted for your maternity bra at about eight months of pregnancy, ensure that you fit the back band of the bra on the loosest hook and eye. This will permit you to tighten the back band post-birth as your rib cage begins to contract.
The back band of the bra provides about 80% of the support of your bra, so it is a very crucial thing to consider.
Don’t try to fit into cup specific bras immediately post-birth
It is only during the first eight weeks after delivery that your breasts may feel a bit out of control. During this period, you will experience noticeable changes in the size of your breasts. After this time, your body begins to regulate its milk supply. It is advisable to go for a seamless bra at this time. Reason being that it will adjust with your changing body shape. Also, it will provide you with all the comfort and support you need after delivery.
Not only will a cupped size product make you feel uncomfortable, but it will also compress and restrict your boobs as it learns to balance its milk supply.
Consider your wardrobe
Finally, put your wardrobe into consideration. At the moment, there are plenty of nursing bras available on the market. They include everyday basics, contour, soft cups to beautiful fashion bras and so much more.
Buy nursing bras that will fit in with your lifestyle and make you feel good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are nursing bras really necessary?A: Well, if you don’t want a nursing bra, you haven’t committed a crime. However, you will do well to purchase one. Not just anyone, but a well fitted one. A poorly fitted bra could cause you more harm than good leading to plugged ducts and mastitis.
Q: How does a nursing bra work?A: Nursing Bras were created for nursing mothers. They are designed to provide optimal comfort and support for a mother’s growing breasts during and after pregnancy. A nursing bra is different from a regular bra in one major aspect. It allows easy access to your breast for breastfeeding your baby or pumping milk without having to completely remove your bra.
Q: When should I buy nursing bras?A: There is the best and the worst time to measure your breasts. The best time to measure is at mid-day and before feeding your little one. At this time, your breasts are full. But, as stated earlier, if you prefer to buy your nursing bra before you deliver your baby, don’t be in a hurry. Wait, till you get to the 8th month of your pregnancy. At this time, you would have most of your baby weight and must have undergone major body shape changes.
Q: Do you really need a nursing bra?A: well, you can do without a nursing bra, if you like. Maybe an old bra will do. Whatever choice you make, ensure that it is comfortable. I can’t stress this enough, avoid bras that can hurt your comfort. it shouldn’t be too loose, neither should it be too tight. Avoid bras that squeeze your breast tissue, it could lead to plugged ducts, mastitis, etc. trust me, you do not want to bring more troubles on yourself.
Q: Do I have to wear a bra at night while nursing?A: most mothers say it’s comfortable to wear a nursing bra quite often during the first 2 to 6 weeks of breastfeeding. However, if you are not so used to the idea of wearing bras at nights, you may skip it. But, you should be prepared to see breastmilk on your bed when you wake up. This is because, moms often leak a whole lot at night. To avoid this, you should wear a good nursing bra to sleep.
Q: Does wearing a tight bra increase milk supply?A: I know this may sound strange, but experts at California Pacific Medical Center stated that wearing a bra that’s too tight may reduce your supply of breastmilk. Also, it may cause blocked milk ducts or painful mastitis. So, here is my advice, wear A Bra That Fits.
Q: Should I wear a bra to bed breastfeeding?A: it Is believed that wearing a bra to sleep in general helps to prevent sagging breasts. This belief can also be applied while you’re breastfeeding. Most women fear that their breasts could sag after breastfeeding. You may want to wear a bra to prevent that.
When you wear a comfortable bra, during the day and at night, it would support the structure of your breasts, particularly the Cooper’s ligaments.
Q: What is the difference between maternity bra and nursing bra?A: Don’t stress it, there is just one major difference. Maternity bras are worn during pregnancy, while nursing bras are used after you have delivered your baby.
Some features of a maternity bra include non-underwire cups, a band with extra size settings, and cups with enough stretch to accommodate growing breasts. They are very similar to nursing bras.
Q: How many cup sizes do you go up when nursing?A: Every woman is unique. What happens to one woman may not happen in the other. However, on average, a woman may go up to 2-4 band sizes and 2-4 cup sizes in pregnancy.
Your breasts should be balanced at about 7 months and there will be an increase when your milk first comes in, after you have delivered your baby. Look out for the extra hooks and eyes of our Hotmilk bras. They cater to this perfectly.
Q: Should I buy a nursing bra a size bigger? A: as a rule of the thumb – Nursing bras should fit you properly. Do not go to buy a bra that has extra room in the cups. Maybe, you think you will fill it out when your milk starts flowing in. But, that’s an error. A bra that has extra room in its cups will not give you the support you need. Apart from making you uncomfortable, it could result in premature sagging.
Q: How can I prevent my breasts from sagging after pregnancy?A: most women ask this question. You can avoid breast sagging after pregnancy and breastfeeding by doing the following:
- Wear a well-fitting nursing bra during the day and also at night while you’re pregnant and nursing.
- Stay within the guidelines for gaining weight during pregnancy
- You should use a moisturizer on your breasts regularly. Read the label, ensure all ingredients are safe to be used during pregnancy.
- Do not lose your pregnancy weight all at once. Do it gradually.
- Avoid smoking; it affects your skin elasticity.
Q: Does sleeping with a bra prevent stretch marks?A: yes, sleeping in a supportive and well-fitted bra may prevent stretch marks
“This can pull the skin and lead to stretch marks. Using a bra to sleep in may slow the aging process down very slightly in this instance.”
Q: How many nursing bras should I buy?A: This isn’t so hard. At least, you’ll need about three nursing bras.You’ll need to wash one, wear another, and spare the last. You’ll even feel more relaxed, knowing that you are fully prepared for any unexpected leak, baby spit-up, or a hot flash.
Q: What if my baby doesn’t empty my breast?A: quite often, reduced milk supply is as a result of not draining the breasts effectively. This could happen if: you were separated from your little one during the first week of delivery–for instance, if the baby was sick and you were not able to nurse or pump. Also, it could happen if your baby doesn’t nurse very often, suck well, or empty your busts well.
Q: What should I eat during breastfeeding?A: Here are some foods you should be eating while breastfeeding
- Fish and seafood: Salmon, shellfish, seaweed, and sardines
- Meat: Beef, pork, and organ meats such as liver, lamb, etc.
- Fruits and vegetables: Berries, cabbage, tomatoes, garlic, kale, and broccoli
Conclusion
There you go! Every nursing mother needs a nursing bra. You don’t need to wait until your baby comes. Get it as soon as you can. But there are so many nursing bras available on the market, how do you choose the best one? The answers are clearly stated in the guide. Go through it carefully to help you make a choice.
If you know how to select a good nursing bra, and you know what to look out for in a bra, you’ll easily make a great choice for you and your baby.
Hope you enjoyed this guide. Please if you have any questions, please let me know in the comment section and I will make sure to reply.
Thanks for reading!