Breastfeeding Bra

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Having a good breastfeeding bra is one of the most important things that you can buy. In this post, I’m going to provide you with some ideas on what to look for in your bra.

In fact, you’ll want to have at least two bras, as you will always need a spare when the other one is in the wash.  Ideally, three is the best.  You’ll find that they need to be washed often, because your breastmilk will leak on them either during or in between feedings. You then should hang dry them, so you need to factor in the time that they will take to dry this way.  Nursing bras allow you to have access to your breasts easily and more discreetly in order that you can nurse your baby without having to take everything off.

Here are some tips in choosing your bra:

1. Your cup size is likely to increase by one size during pregnancy, and the band size will increase by one-two sizes. When your mature milk comes in during the early days after the birth, expect to increase another cup size.  Once your milk supply is well-established though, your cup size will once again be reduced.  That is why it is important to purchase a breastfeeding bra that is made of flexible material that will change with your everchanging breast size.    Remember that you will need a bit of extra room in the cups for the placement of your breast pads or breast shields.  Purchase your nursing bra in the last trimester of your pregnancy. I started wearing my nursing bra in the last trimester as it fit better than my pre-pregnancy bras.  The cups were a bit roomy before I gave birth, but fit perfectly once I started nursing the baby.
2. If at all possible, avoid underwire.  Underwire poses the risk of causing plugged milk ducts, and possibly leading to mastitis.  Check out these bras if you want support without underwire.  If, however, you are very large-chested and don’t feel comfortable without underwire, then click on the “bigger bras” ad at the top of this post.  You will find testimonials and comments there from people who have purchased particular bras.
3. Another reason for avoiding underwire, is you’ll want to find a bra that is so comfortable that you can actually sleep in it.  Yes, you read that right!  Your breasts are going to feel so heavy, that they need support even when sleeping at times.
4. Be aware that different styles of bras are made differently, and therefore the sizes are not the same across the board.  Measure specifically for that type of bra.  If you click on the ads above, you will be taken to websites that have fitting guides and sizing charts so that you can figure out exactly what size of nursing bra you need to order for that particular style.  Enter “nursing bras” in the Search box on the websites.
5. Consider tank shirts with built-in bras.  These are useful to wear alone or layered under a shirt that buttons up.  They are very discreet and prevent your stomach from showing when nursing.  You can find these at .

The most important thing you can do when choosing a breastfeeding bra is to find one that is comfortable and supportive.  I hope that these tips give you some ideas of what to look for in nursing bras.