Nursing Bra Tips

Congratulations on your new baby! Now it’s time to find the right nursing bra that will provide comfort, support and easy access to the breasts. Moms-to-be see their breast size changing during the first trimester of pregnancy. If you're buying new bras during pregnancy and plan to breastfeed, we recommend you go ahead and buy nursing bras.

Maternity Bras vs. Nursing Bras: Many women use these terms interchangeably, but a maternity bra is different from a nursing bra. A maternity bra is worn both before and after pregnancy if you are not planning on breastfeeding. The cups of a maternity bra are designed with some stretch to accommodate your breast growth. Maternity bras also have more breast coverage and support built in giving you needed extra support as your breast continue to grow.

A nursing bra on the other hand is worn once your baby arrives, and you have made the decision to breastfeed. Nursing bra cups are designed with a drop down clip to expose your breast for nursing. They are usually seamless and give a natural shape to your breasts.

About the 8th month of your pregnancy is the best time to buy your nursing bra, by then your breasts size should have stabilized. Buy a nursing bra one cup size larger than your measurement at 8 months. This is a general rule since most women's breasts grow a full cup size once your milk comes in after the baby's birth. If you measure a 34B, purchase a 34C or 34D nursing bra. Look for a nursing bra that will give you easy access to the breast and will allow you to open the cup with one hand so you can hold your baby as you get ready to breastfeed. Make sure you choose a nursing bra made of cotton or other soft and breathable fabric to give you the most comfort. Nursing bras with a four-hook back closure will offer the greatest flexibility in fit. Wide straps with no stretch yet have cushion will be the most comfortable and provide the best support for nursing and daily wear. The band of your nursing bra should fit comfortably on its widest setting. Remember, your band size will decrease after the birth and this adjustability with your nursing bra will then be appreciated.

We recommend having at least three nursing bras; one to wear, one to launder and one as a spare just in case of an accident.

Please let us know if we can assist you with finding the right size nursing bra for you. Nursing is such a special time to bond with your baby, so make sure you start your breastfeeding adventure off right with a great nursing bra from Beautiful You Maternity.