The Best Bras for Maternity and Nursing: Sizing and Comfort Tips

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are some of the most special yet challenging times in a woman’s life. As your body goes through numerous changes, your needs for comfort, support, and functionality change as well, especially when it comes to undergarments. The right maternity and nursing bra can make a world of difference in your comfort levels, support, and overall experience as you navigate through these stages.

Whether you are preparing for pregnancy or actively nursing, choosing the best bras for maternity and nursing is crucial to keeping you comfortable, confident, and well-supported. We’ll walk you through the importance of maternity and nursing bras, the factors to consider when choosing them, how to determine the correct sizing, and offer comfort tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.

We’ll also address seven frequently asked questions to give you a comprehensive understanding of how to choose the perfect bra for maternity and nursing.

Why Do You Need Special Maternity and Nursing Bras?

During pregnancy and nursing, your body undergoes many changes, particularly in the breast area. Your breasts may grow in size, become more sensitive, and experience changes in shape as your body prepares to nurse. The right maternity and nursing bra provides you with the support and comfort you need during this time.

The Benefits of Maternity and Nursing Bras

Support: As your breasts grow, they need extra support to prevent back pain and discomfort. A good maternity bra will provide ample support to relieve the pressure on your back, neck, and shoulders.
Comfort: Pregnancy hormones can lead to increased sensitivity in your breasts. Maternity bras are designed to provide softness and comfort, without irritating your skin.
Breastfeeding Convenience: Nursing bras come with features such as adjustable straps and clip-down cups, allowing you to breastfeed your baby easily and discreetly.
Adaptability: Maternity and nursing bras are designed to accommodate changes in your body. Many bras come with adjustable bands, cups that expand, or removable padding to accommodate fluctuations in size.
Preventing Sagging: Proper support from a maternity or nursing bra helps prevent the breasts from sagging, keeping them in a comfortable and supportive position.

What to Look for in a Maternity or Nursing Bra

When searching for the best maternity or nursing bra, there are a few essential features to look for. These features will not only keep you comfortable but also ensure that you get the most out of your investment.

1. Supportive Straps and Bands

The straps and bands are the foundation of any good maternity or nursing bra. The band should be wide enough to distribute the weight of your breasts evenly, while the straps should be adjustable and padded to reduce shoulder pain.

2. Breathable and Stretchy Fabrics

Your skin will be more sensitive during pregnancy, and choosing a bra made from breathable, moisture-wicking, and stretchy fabrics such as cotton or modal will ensure comfort. These fabrics allow your skin to breathe while providing ample stretch as your body changes.

3. Easy Access for Nursing

A nursing bra should have an easy-to-use, one-handed clasp or flap to allow you to breastfeed your baby discreetly and without hassle. Look for nursing bras that feature drop-down cups or adjustable flaps that can be easily opened and closed with one hand.

4. Stretchy, Adjustable Cups

During pregnancy, your breast size will likely fluctuate as your body changes. A bra with stretchy, adjustable cups will adapt to your body’s shifting shape. Some bras also come with removable padding, giving you flexibility if your breast size increases or decreases during breastfeeding.

5. Wide, Adjustable Bands

As your ribcage expands during pregnancy, a wide, adjustable band will provide the support you need without being restrictive. The band should be snug but not tight, offering support while ensuring comfort.

6. Underwire vs. Wireless Bras

While underwire bras offer structured support, many women prefer wireless bras during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Wireless bras are softer and more comfortable, which is particularly important during the postpartum period when your body is adjusting. However, if you prefer underwire bras, ensure that they are not too tight, as this can cause discomfort and restrict milk flow.

Best Maternity and Nursing Bras

Here is a curated list of some of the best maternity and nursing bras on the market, providing a mix of style, comfort, and support for every stage of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

1. Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra

This seamless bra offers superior comfort, softness, and flexibility. With removable foam inserts, it adapts to your changing breast size and offers excellent support without the need for underwire. The one-handed clasp makes breastfeeding convenient, and the bra’s wide straps help distribute weight evenly.

2. Kindred Bravely French Terry Nursing Bra

The Kindred Bravely French Terry Nursing Bra is made from soft, stretchy cotton material, offering great breathability and comfort. It’s designed with a pull-down feature for easy nursing, and the elastic underband provides gentle support without feeling restrictive.

3. Lively Maternity Bra

Lively’s Maternity Bra combines support and comfort with a stylish design. It’s wireless, made from soft fabrics, and features a built-in nursing clip for easy access. The stretchy material ensures a snug fit while adapting to your body’s changes.

4. Motherhood Maternity Wireless Nursing Bra

The Motherhood Maternity Wireless Nursing Bra is designed to offer maximum comfort during pregnancy and nursing. It features wide straps and a soft, stretchable band for ultimate support. Its wireless design and easy-access cups make it ideal for nursing mothers.

5. Hatch Collection Maternity Bra

The Hatch Collection Maternity Bra is luxurious yet practical, designed with soft cotton and mesh for a breathable, comfortable experience. It provides gentle support while still being stylish enough to wear outside the home.

6. Medela Nursing Bra

Medela is a trusted brand for nursing mothers, and their nursing bra is no exception. Featuring a simple clip-down design, it allows easy access for breastfeeding while providing a supportive and snug fit. Its moisture-wicking fabric ensures comfort during the day.

7. Cake Lingerie Croissant Maternity Bra

The Cake Lingerie Croissant Bra is a highly supportive, wireless option for mothers. It features extra support for growing breasts and a smooth, seamless design that’s perfect for under any clothing.

Sizing Tips for Maternity and Nursing Bras

Getting the right size is essential for both comfort and support. Your size may change throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it’s important to measure regularly to ensure you are wearing the correct size.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring for a Maternity Bra

Measure Your Band Size: Using a soft measuring tape, measure around your ribcage, just under your bust. This measurement will give you your band size. If the measurement is an even number, that’s your band size. If it’s an odd number, round up to the next even number.
Measure Your Bust Size: Next, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Keep the tape comfortably snug but not tight.
Calculate Your Cup Size: Subtract your band size from your bust measurement. Each inch difference corresponds to a cup size (e.g., 1 inch = A cup, 2 inches = B cup, etc.).
Adjust for Pregnancy and Nursing: During pregnancy, your breasts will likely grow. You may need to size up one or two cup sizes, depending on how much they change. You should also consider buying bras with adjustable straps or elastic bands for extra comfort and flexibility.

Tips for Sizing During Pregnancy

Buy Early: You don’t need to buy maternity bras right away, but consider buying a few during your second trimester when your breast size is more likely to change.
Be Prepared to Size Up: As your breast size increases throughout pregnancy and nursing, you may need to buy new bras. Don’t be afraid to size up if you feel discomfort in your current bras.
Stretchable Fabrics: Look for bras made of stretchy materials to ensure they can accommodate your changing body without feeling tight.

Comfort Tips for Maternity and Nursing Bras

Comfort is key when selecting a maternity or nursing bra. Here are some tips to make sure you stay comfortable throughout the day:

Opt for Wireless Bras: Wireless bras are often more comfortable during pregnancy and breastfeeding because they provide support without the discomfort of underwires.
Choose Soft Fabrics: Look for bras made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, modal, or bamboo to avoid irritation and sweating.
Make Sure the Band Fits Well: A bra that is too tight or too loose will not provide the proper support. Adjust the band to fit snugly around your ribcage, and make sure it’s not digging into your skin.
Avoid Tight Straps: Tight straps can dig into your shoulders, causing pain and discomfort. Make sure your straps are adjustable and wide enough to provide support without pressing into your skin.
Look for Easy-to-Use Nursing Features: Nursing bras with clip-down cups or one-handed clasps are not only more convenient but can also make breastfeeding much easier, especially when you’re on the go.

7 Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I start wearing a maternity or nursing bra?

It’s a good idea to start wearing a maternity or nursing bra around the second trimester, when your breasts begin to change in size and sensitivity. If you plan to breastfeed, it’s best to buy a nursing bra a few weeks before your due date to prepare for nursing.

2. What’s the best material for a maternity or nursing bra?

The best materials for maternity and nursing bras are breathable and stretchy, like cotton, modal, or bamboo. These fabrics allow for comfort, flexibility, and moisture-wicking properties, which is essential during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

3. How many nursing bras should I buy?

You should have at least three to five nursing bras in rotation. This way, you always have one available to wear, even if one is in the wash.

4. Can I wear my regular bra during pregnancy?

It’s not recommended to wear your regular bras during pregnancy, as they may not provide the right support for your growing breasts. Investing in a maternity or nursing bra will provide the right support and comfort.

5. How do I know if my nursing bra fits correctly?

Your nursing bra should fit snugly around your ribcage, and the cups should fully cover your breasts without spilling over. The straps should not dig into your shoulders, and the band should be comfortable but not too tight.

6. Do nursing bras come in underwire and wireless options?

Yes, nursing bras come in both underwire and wireless options. Many women prefer wireless nursing bras for comfort, but if you prefer underwire, make sure the fit is right and doesn’t constrict milk flow.

7. Can I wear a maternity bra after I’ve had the baby?

Yes! Many maternity bras are designed to provide comfortable support during breastfeeding, so you can continue wearing them after delivery for the first few months of nursing.

Conclusion

The right maternity and nursing bras are essential for ensuring comfort, support, and convenience during pregnancy and breastfeeding. By understanding what features to look for, how to measure for the correct size, and following tips for comfort, you can make this important purchase with confidence. Choose bras that allow you to adapt to your body’s changing shape, and always remember that comfort is key in this special chapter of your life.

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