Every breastfeeding mom needs a nursing bra. Breastfeeding can be a bit difficult for first-time moms especially when you are not at home and everyone is watching you. Nursing bras were designed to make the process easier. These bras were also crafted to provide ultimate comfort and adequate support for heavy breasts.

First-time moms usually find trouble choosing the right nursing bras since they are not conversant with how it works. Nursing bras come in different designs which means you have a variety to choose from. Don’t fret if it’s your first time. This ultimate nursing bra guide will see you through the process as it features every little detail you need to know about them.

These ultimate nursing guide comes in handy for both first time moms and the already experienced ones.

What are Nursing Bras?

In layman terms, a nursing bra is specially designed to provide ultimate comfort and additional support to breastfeeding moms. Nursing bras usually feature hooks and clasps that allows you open the flaps effortlessly when nursing the little one.

Nursing bras are also known as breastfeeding bras, pregnancy bras, maternity bras or feeding bras.

Who Invented Nursing Bras?

The nursing brassiere was invented by Albert A. Glasser in 1948. It was only after the World War 2 that people came to know about nursing bras. After some time, different lingerie brands started making better nursing bra designs. Another nursing bra designer, Mary Sanchez made her pieces in 1991. The new invention featured one handed fastening flaps and a variety of cup sizes.

Physical Changes During Gestation

Women usually undergo a lot of body changes during pregnancy. The size of the breasts tends to change with each trimester. During pregnancy, even the inactive breast tissues become functional to prepare the breasts for nursing. The breasts produce more estrogen and progesterone which in turn makes the breast glands grow. Most women have fuller breasts six weeks into conception and can gain up to a maximum of 2 pounds in the breasts by the time she gets to 9 months.

First Trimester

The breasts start to change at the stage. They might start growing bigger and you may notice sensitive and swollen nipples. You may experience these symptoms weeks into the pregnancy due to hormonal changes in the body.

Second Trimester

Estrogen levels in the body tends to increase at this point. Your breasts might feel heavy since the milk ducts are growing.

Third Trimester

You’ll notice heavier and larger breasts and nipples respectively. The breasts will be fuller at this stage. You might have some stretch marks owing to the growing breasts. You can also experience some itchiness since the breasts tend to expand on the third trimester. Always replace your bras after each trimester as the size of your breasts will keep changing. This helps you get the right amount of support and comfort.

Benefits of Nursing Bras

In most countries, visible breasts when breastfeeding is considered a taboo. Nursing bras cover the breasts while the attached flaps keep them hidden if you feel uneasy or inconvenient about their visibility during the process.

Nursing bras allows you to access the breasts easily especially when you are not in the house. A nursing bra will always come in handy as it saves you the hassle of having to look for a feeding area to breastfeed the baby without showing your breasts. Nursing bras features flaps for ease and convenience of breastfeeding.

Nursing bras make breastfeeding hassle-free. You can feed the baby anytime, anywhere without taking off the entire bra.

Interruption-free breastfeeding. A nursing bra helps you feed the baby without disturbance or any interruptions.

How Nursing Bras Work

First time moms can find heavy breasts quite annoying. Going braless is usually not an option since the breasts need adequate support and the nipples are more sensitive. During pregnancy, the nipples discharge a liquid called colostrum that is not only nutritious but also rich in antibiotics. The leakage can sip through your clothes and leave embarrassing stains so not wearing a bra won’t cut it.

Wearing a regular bra when nursing the baby is inconvenient and makes the process more difficult especially if you are doing it in public. You should also ensure your outfit has a loose fit or has convenient points that allows you to comfortably pull out your breasts. Nursing bras were designed to make breastfeeding easy especially when you are out in public.

Nursing bras feature front openings that are easy to hook and unhook once you are done. Nursing bras with flaps allow you to breastfeed anywhere without showing your breasts. It also promotes skin to skin contact which is equally important as it helps you bond with the baby. You need a nursing bra for comfortable and happy breastfeeding.

Nursing Bras Fabrics

The fabric used in a nursing bra plays an important role. This is because some women have sensitive skin and the fabric can cause allergies and rashes which is more prone to happen during pregnancy. Pay close attention to the fabric when shopping for a nursing bra. At this stage, the nipples are usually sensitive and you can also experience leakage. In this case, a highly absorbent and skin-friendly fabric is crucial.

Thankfully, there’s a variety of fabrics that are skin-friendly and equally absorbent ideal for breastfeeding. Let’s look at some of these materials and their advantages:

Cotton

During pregnancy, most women usually opt for cotton bras. Cotton fabric is lightweight, highly absorbent, breathable and feels great against the skin. The fabric has breathability properties to help keep you dry and comfortable all day long. Nursing bras that are made of cotton allows perfect circulation of air, helps prevent any allergies and are easier to manage.

Spandex

Spandex is also a preferred fabric for pregnant women since it’s super lightweight. Nursing bras made of spandex are light on the skin that you might even forget you have a bra on. During pregnancy, the breasts usually feel heavy that’s why you need a lighter nursing bra. Plus, the fabric also feels smooth and soft against the skin.

Spandex is stretchy and durable to help make breastfeeding effortless and convenient. The stretchability capabilities also help maintain your original breast shape.

Lace

If you are looking to take a break from an otherwise basic nursing bra, then opt for those made of lace fabric. Lace nursing bras are typically stable and lightweight giving you an effortless modern look. Plus, it allows you to breastfeed easily. Go for a lace nursing bra if you are looking to add some artistic feel to your intimates.

Nursing Bras vs Regular Bras

Nursing bras are quite different from regular bras. The difference explains why you need a nursing bra during pregnancy as opposed to regular bras. Pregnancy can be tough that’s why you need to take care of your breasts as it starts with wearing the right bra.

Wearing a convenient nursing bra during this phase is important for a stress-free experience. A nursing bra is uniquely designed for ease of breastfeeding and we cannot say the same about a regular bra.

Nursing bras make breastfeeding quite easy. It saves you a lot of time and energy. Plus, you can breastfeed the baby anywhere anytime without worrying about showing your breasts. Nursing bras feature convenient flaps and drop-down cups at the from for ease of feeding. You cannot find these two features in a regular bra which makes them inappropriate during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, you will notice a significant increase in the size of your breasts. Your breasts will appear bigger and fuller and would therefore require excellent coverage and support. Nursing bras offer mor in terms of coverage compared to regular bras. This just echoes the earlier sentiments that nursing bras are the best option for pregnant and breastfeeding moms.

Your breasts need adequate support during pregnancy since they are heavier due to the growing milk ducts. At this stage, you need a supportive bra and this is where a nursing bra comes in as they are designed to provide ultimate breast support.

Most nursing bras are usually made of spandex and cotton. These two fabrics are the ultimate in comfort as they feel soft against the skin. Other regular bras are made with different materials which might not work well for pregnant women.

Most regular bras focus on style as opposed to comfort. Regular bras can feature embellishments and lace which is quite rare in nursing bras. Nursing bras are typically designed to make the entire breastfeeding process easy and convenient.

Maternity Bras vs Regular Bras

One of the most noticeable difference between a maternity and nursing bra is the wide frame. You’ll experience a lot of physical changes during pregnancy and the breasts equally grow bigger. In this case, you’ll need a bra that provides incredible support in all the right places and bras with wide frames are the best option. These bras feature firm sturdy cups that hold the breasts in place and provide adequate support.

Maternity bras have tighter and firmer shoulder straps compared to their regular counterparts. The straps stay in place without digging into the shoulders to provide enhanced comfort, lift and support. Maternity bras also help prevent sagging since breasts are usually heavy during pregnancy.

Maternity bras have more rows and columns of hooks and eyes to provide extra security and allow you to customize fit as your breasts grow. Regular bras on the other hand feature two or three hooks and eyes which makes it difficult to accommodate growing breasts during pregnancy.

Nursing Bras vs Maternity Bras

The most common misconception about nursing and maternity bras is that they are the same. Maternity bras are designed to be used during pregnancy while nursing bras cater to breastfeeding moms. Nursing and maternity bras have similar features save for drop-down cup design at the front.

A maternity bra is uniquely designed to safeguard and protect the breasts as the milk ducts grow during pregnancy. Nursing bras on the other hand are meant to provide adequate breast support and make breastfeeding easier.

Why You Need a Nursing Bra

Breastfeeding can be quite inconvenient when you are out and you need to feed the baby. It gets worse when the set-up frowns upon visible breasts during the process. The situation can get ugly if you are not wearing the right bra and need to lift up your dress and take off the entire bra. You will need a nursing bra for ease of breastfeeding without any interruptions and disturbance.

You can switch to wearing nursing bras as soon as you notice a significant increase in breast size during pregnancy. Women who love underwire bras might be a little disadvantaged since most nursing bras are wireless. However, wearing an underwire bra can interfere with breastfeeding since it causes accumulation of soft tissues and fluids. This is why nursing bras have a wireless design.

Most people believe that continuous breastfeeding causes breast sagging. However, a nursing will come in handy as it helps hold the breasts in place to prevent sagging.  Even if the nursing bra is wire free, always ensure it doesn’t compromise on support. When breastfeeding, your breasts are still heavy and need maximum support.

Nursing bras don’t have to be basic and boring as to interfere with your fashion sense. Nursing bras are available in different patterns, styles and colors. This means that you have a variety to choose from to suit your needs. There are nursing bras that are stylish without compromising on comfort and support.

Comfort is key when it comes to nursing bras. Nursing bras are usually made of stretchy and soft material for maximum comfort. Plus, the fabric feels light on the skin.

Nursing bras simplifies and eases the whole breastfeeding process. The drop-down cup design at the front allows for easy access and you can even hook and unhook with one hand. Any breastfeeding mom needs a nursing bra in her lingerie collection since they are functional and convenient.

Different Features of Nursing Bras

Nursing bras have padding ideal for women looking to enhance the appearance of their breasts. These bras also have different padding levels ranging from heavily padded, moderately padded and lightly padded nursing bras. You can choose the right amount of padding depending on the size of your breasts.

Most nursing bras have a wireless design. This is because underwires can poke into your already heavy breasts or restrict blood flow. Besides, you need to access the breasts easily when breastfeeding. Underwire bras can make accessing the breasts harder which can be very inconvenient.

Nursing bras offer excellent coverage and provide incredible support for heavy breasts.

Wearing a formfitting dress can leave visible bra lines during pregnancy. However, nursing bras virtually disappear underneath clothing owing to their seamless design.

Nursing bras feature detachable cups for ease of breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact with the baby. You only need to unfasten the cup then fasten it back once you are done. How convenient!

Nursing bras have back closures to allow you to breastfeed effortlessly and conveniently.

Different Types of Nursing Bras

Getting the right nursing bra can be a bit confusing since there are a variety in the market. Here are some of the best must-have nursing bras to make shopping less complicated.

1. Drop Cup Nursing Bras

Drop Cup Nursing Bras are super convenient. This nursing bra is a must-have for women who cannot switch to nursing bras immediately since they are used to wearing regular bras. Drop cup nursing bras are the ultimate in comfort and support. These bras feature a one-piece fabric flap at the front for ease of breastfeeding as you can easily hook and unhook once you are done. The other breast remains covered when you unhook the flap.

2. Wire Free Nursing Bras

Most doctors advise against wearing underwire bras when breastfeeding. However, there’s no proof that shows underwire nursing bras have sever breast health implications. People believe that underwire nursing bras usually put pressure on the milk glands and press the breasts causing discomfort and can also result in inflammation.

However, wire free nursing bras are convenient and extremely comfortable. They hold the breasts in place and feel light against the skin without compromising on support.

3. Lightly Lined Nursing Bras

A lightly lined nursing bra would be your best bet during pregnancy if you are not sure of which bra design to go for. These bras are perfect for lactation and also provide ultimate breast support during pregnancy. Lightly lined nursing bras can feel slightly uncomfortable and new to women who prefer wearing padded bras to enhance the appearance of their breasts and lift them.

These nursing bras have light padding to provide natural shaping and support without making you feel too constricted. Plus, lightly lined nursing bras will give you the best breastfeeding experience.

4. Lace Neckline Nursing Bras

If you want a fashionable and trendy nursing bra that allows you to breastfeed easily without sacrificing style, then a lace neckline nursing bra is your best bet. You can pair a lace nursing bra with stylish dresses without getting in the way of breastfeeding.

5. Sports Nursing Bras

A sports nursing bra will come in handy for breastfeeding moms with active lifestyles. Exercising in a regular bra is not only weird but also uncomfortable and this is especially hard for pregnant women. That’s why you need a sports nursing bra! These bras provide excellent coverage and incredible breast support when working out.

6. Strapless Nursing Bras

I know most of you are surprised but there are strapless nursing bras! You can pair these bras with your off-shoulder tops and dresses without worrying about peeking straps. These bras resemble regular strapless bras except they can be used for nursing.

Strapless nursing bras feature an exterior layer that you can effortlessly pull down for ease of breastfeeding. You can pull it back in place once you are done nursing and secure it properly.

How to Shop for Nursing Bras

Once you are conversant with all the details about nursing bras, you can now go shopping. Here are some of the things you need to put in mind when buying nursing bras:

When shopping for nursing bras, forget about your normal bra size. As earlier mentioned, breasts tend to grow during pregnancy and you are bound to experience a lot of physical changes. This means that your cup size will also change as your breasts will be fuller and heavier hence the difference in bra size. You’ll need to measure your breasts before heading out.

Always go for nursing bras with adjustable straps. Nursing bras with adjustable straps are lifesavers as you can shorten or lengthen them to your specifications if they feel too tight or too loose. When shopping for nursing bras always look out for those with adjustable straps as they allow you customize fit.

A nursing bra should make breastfeeding simple and easy. Always put that in mind when shopping for nursing bras. Also, check out for drop-down cup design for ease of breastfeeding. Ensure you don’t get carried away with the different available designs and forget about functionality.

Check out for hook and eye closures as they help you customize fit for maximum all day comfort.

Measuring Your Nursing Bra Size

You need a tape measure, regular unpadded bra, mirror, pen and paper where you will write down the measurements.

First Step – Stand in front of the mirror where you can clearly see the numbers on the measuring tape.

Second Step – To measure the cup size, measure the fullest part of the breasts, usually around the nipples and note down the measurements. Round off the figure to the nearest even number. For instance, if you measure 31.7 inches, round it off to 32 and 33.1 should go to 34.

Third Step – Measure your band size. Place the measuring tape around your ribcage. It should be snug, neither too tight nor too loose.

Fourth Step – Get the difference of the two measurements. The difference in inches is the cup size. For instance, if the difference is an inch, then that’s an A cup, 2 inches – B cup, 3 inches – C cup, 4 inches – D cup and so forth.

If you can’t crack this method then you can use the bra size calculator or look for a professional bra fitter to help you out.

Choosing a Perfect Nursing Bra

Always go for nursing bras with wide shoulder straps for additional support and comfort. As the breasts grow during pregnancy and breastfeeding, you need adequate breast support. Wide straps help redistribute breast weight evenly to take the strain off the shoulders and provide enhanced support. Nursing bras with wide shoulder straps are not only supportive but also more durable compared to those with thin straps.

Fabric is equally important. The nipples tend to leak during pregnancy and breastfeeding and the liquid can seep through clothing and leave embarrassing stains. You therefore need a nursing bra that is quick drying, highly absorbent and breathable to keep you dry and comfortable. Most lactating women prefer nursing bras made of cotton since they are lightweight, fast drying and are also absorbent.

When to Shop for Maternity or Nursing Bras

You cannot determine your actual breast size during pregnancy that’s why lingerie experts advise against shopping for nursing bras too soon. You start buying maternity bras on the first and second trimester. When can I start wearing nursing bras? This is the most frequently asked question among pregnant women.

You can shop for nursing bras a month before your due date. At this stage, the milk ducts are usually fully developed and are an actual representation of your breast size.

There are a variety of nursing bras that you can choose from different bra brands to keep your breasts well supported and secure. As earlier mentioned, nursing bras don’t have to be plain and boring! Thankfully, these functional bras come in different designs and colors for wardrobe versatility.

Motherhood is beautiful. That’s why you need to enjoy every part of the journey and that includes taking care of your delicate breasts by wearing the right bra size and fit. And this is where a nursing bra comes in to keep you well supported, comfortable and secure. What’s more, they help prevent breast sagging!

How Many Nursing Bras Do You Need?

By now, you know that you are bound to experience a lot of changes during pregnancy. Your breast size will constantly change. You’ll notice a change in size with each trimester. You can start off with three nursing bras so that you have a healthy rotation. However, the number of nursing bras you need depends on different factors including how long you plan on breastfeeding the little one.

It’s also important to measure the size of your breasts monthly to ascertain you are wearing the right size. You can replace your nursing bras anytime you feel they don’t serve their purpose or have stretched out. A nursing bra should fit snugly and should neither be too tight nor too loose since this can compromise support and result in sagging over time.

How many nursing bras do I need? Three is the estimated number and a good start.

The Price Range of Nursing Bras

Each nursing bra is priced differently depending on the brand and features. Here’s the price range of some of the most common types of nursing bras to help you make an informed decision according to your budget:

Drop Cup Nursing Bras – All women can wear this type of nursing bra since it comes in a range of sizes to accommodate different breast shapes and sizes. The price of these nursing bras ranges from Rs. 300 to Rs. 1500.

Strapless Nursing Bras – You can get these bras at Rs. 400 and beyond.

Sports Nursing Bras – The price range begins from Rs. 500

Wire Free Nursing Bras – The price range is between Rs 350 to Rs. 1000

Lace Neckline Nursing Bras – The price range begins from Rs. 1000

Lightly Lined Nursing Bras – The price range begins from Rs. 1000

Pro Tip: Always go for nursing bras in neutral colors as they pair well with a variety of outfits. However, if you are looking for a nursing bra to complement all your outfits, a white or black nursing bra will suffice. Your choice of color is usually a matter of personal preference.

Different Factors That Affect Fit, Support and Comfort

Getting hold of a nursing bra with a perfect fit is no easy feat. There are many factors that you might need to look out for when it comes to the fit of a nursing bra. This is because of the constant changes in breast size during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s almost important to note that these factors also change from time to time.

Here’s a detailed review on different factors that affect a nursing bra’s fit, support and comfort:

Cup Size

No all women experience breast size changes because we have different bodies. Wearing the wrong cup size can affect the support and comfort level of the bra. Besides, a bra that fits tightly will make you feel constricted that you can’t breathe properly. A smaller cup size will literally make you uncomfortable and it’s gets harder when you want to unhook the flaps to breastfeed.

Any discomfort resulting from an ill-fitting bra can be annoying as it makes you feel a little suffocated. Wearing a tight bra cup doesn’t mean that you will get ultimate breast support. Also, you cannot get protection and the right amount of support from a bigger cup size. During lactation, your breasts need to be well supported and secure.

Band Size

The band size is equally important when it comes to the bra’s fit, support and comfort level. When measuring the band size, ensure the tape measure is level and sits snugly on the ribcage. It should neither be too tight nor too loose. You can also look for a professional bra fitter to help you out if you can’t do it at home.

Remember, the band size affects the overall fit of the bra. The band should have a snug fit. You should be able to comfortably slip two fingers underneath the underbust band if it has a perfect fit.

Coverage

You’ll need excellent coverage for your full and heavy breasts during pregnancy. Coverage is very important as increases comfort levels. A nursing bra should have full coverage cups to keep your breasts covered when you are feeding the baby. Full coverage nursing bras usually provide incredible support and also enhances the appearance of your breasts as it makes them look fuller and firmer.

Full coverage nursing bras are also ideal for wearing under formfitting tops and dresses. These bras fully contain the breasts to help prevent spillage from the top and sides. What’s more, full coverage nursing bras give you a smooth finish underneath clothing thanks to their seamless design.

Clasp Position

The position of the clasp is equally important during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Breast sizes keeps changings through pregnancy and even after when breastfeeding. Due to the constant changes in breast size, it’s usually advisable to get measured for a new bra size after every three months. As you know, wearing an ill-fitting bra gets in the way of support and can result in breast sagging. To avoid this problem, always ensure you are wearing the right bra size.

However, if you are working on a budget and can’t afford to replace your bras after every three months, check on the position of the clasp. When you feel the nursing bra is a bit tight you can move to the next clasp for a comfortable fit. In simple words, you can keep changing the position of the clasps by either moving in or out for a more customized fit.

Wearing a Nursing Bra Correctly

Here’s how to wear a nursing bra correctly:

Nursing bras are available in different styles hence the confusion. Most women get confused about using a nursing bra correctly and how to wear them. This ultimate guide will see you through wearing different types of nursing bras. Let’s hop on!

Drop Cup Nursing Bras

First Step – Drop down nursing bras usually feature flaps that are attached with a clasp on both sides of the cups. Pick a side that you want to feed the baby either left or right. It can’t be both unless you are dealing with twins. But you get the drill. Unfasten the clasp and pull the bra cup downwards up to the nipple level.

Second Step – Feed the baby and fasten the clasp once you are done nursing. Besides, the clasps are easy to fasten and unfasten.

Here are some of the things you should put in mind when shopping for drop cup nursing bras:

• Always go for a nursing bra made from a highly absorbent and moisture wicking fabric for all day comfort
• Always ensure the nursing bra has detachable cups for convenience and ease of breastfeeding. Plus, the cups should be detachable on both sides
• When shopping for drop cup nursing bras, ensure the flaps are easy to fasten and unfasten with one hand access. The one hand access is an important feature when it comes to nursing bras as it makes feeding easier and simpler especially when you are not in at home. You don’t want to struggle with the clasp when you are out in public and the baby is already crying.

Strapless Nursing Bras

Strapless nursing bras only come in handy on special occasions. They work well under outfits like off-shoulder tops and dresses since they demand that you keep the straps under wraps. Strapless nursing bras are not ideal for everyday wear as they can get really uncomfortable. When shopping for this type of bra, check if it features hook and eye closure at the back for a more secure fit.

First Step – Ensure the cups sit perfectly well on the breasts.

Second Step – Fasten the strapless nursing bra. Pro Tip: Always wear a new strapless nursing bra on the loosest hook so that you can move inwards to get a perfect fit as the band tends to stretch out over time.

Third Step – When shopping for a strapless nursing bra, you can size down from your usual regular bra size to get a perfect fit.

Follow the same steps like that of a drop cup nursing bra for other nursing bra types. Remember, there’s no particular way of wearing a nursing bra regardless of style. Just wear your nursing bra like you normally would a regular bra.

Factors to Consider When Looking for Strapless Nursing Bras

Always go for strapless nursing bras with hooks to get a more customized fit and ultimate breast support to prevent sagging. Avoid nursing bras with silicone grips during pregnancy. During the lactating period, the nipples tend to leak colostrum which can seep through the silicone and make the situation worse. That’s why silicone nursing bras are not ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding moms.

Use a measuring tape to measure your breast size before heading out to shop for nursing bras. When it comes to strapless nursing bras, it’s always advisable to go down a size to get a perfect fit and ultimate support consequently.

When wearing a strapless nursing bra, avoid using body creams and moisturizers to keep the bra in place. Applying anything that tends to smoothen the surface of the skin will only make the strapless bra slip off the chest.

Always go for strapless nursing bras with detachable cups for ease of breastfeeding anytime anywhere. Plus, the clasps should be equally easy to fasten and unfasten with one hand access.

When Should I Start Wearing a Nursing Bra?

Most women don’t know when to wear start wearing a nursing bra. The most frequently asked question about wearing a nursing bra is whether breastfeeding moms are required to wear it every day and whether or not they can wear it to bed. Don’t fret! You are at the right place if you are still looking for answers to these questions. We are here to clarify any doubts. Read on.

It’s okay to wear a nursing bra only when breastfeeding. It’s also okay if you prefer going braless for the better part of the day when you are not nursing the little one since it’s always about comfort. However, most nursing bras are specially designed with skin-friendly and lightweight fabrics for all day comfort. So, you don’t have to worry about adding bulk to your already heavy breasts or the fabric causing skin irritation and discomfort.

Nursing bras help protect the breasts during the lactation period compared to regular bras. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you cannot wear your regular bras during pregnancy. Comfort is key! If you feel more comfortable in a regular bra than you do in a nursing bra then by all means wear your regular bra!

Can You Wear a Nursing Bra to Bed?

Absolutely! You can wear a nursing bra to bed as long as it’s comfortable enough because you might need to breastfeed the baby in the middle of the night. Plus, nursing bras make breastfeeding easier! Nursing bras are supportive and extremely comfortable and will therefore make you sleep better.

Another reason why you might need to wear a nursing bra to bed is breast leakage. The nursing bra will absorb the leaking colostrum and prevent it from seeping through your night dress as you sleep. Nursing bras are made of incredibly soft and stretchy materials to offer protection and ultimate support to keep the breasts in place. They have no hooks and helps prevent the nursing pads from shifting.

What to Wear with a Nursing Bra

Nursing bras have a seamless design hence can be worn under a variety of outfits. Plus, they remain virtually invisible underneath clothes! These bras also help enhance the appearance of your breasts as it makes them look bigger and fuller thanks to the full coverage cups.

Nursing bras are also ideal for women with saggy breasts as they provide sufficient lift making them look fuller and firmer. Nursing bras also pair well with special occasion outfits. In this case, a lace neckline nursing bra will be your best bet since they are trendy and allows you to breastfeed easily. What’s more, lace neckline nursing bras are available in a range of designs.

You can go for a strapless nursing bra if you plan on wearing an off-shoulder top or dress. Strapless nursing bras will keep your breasts secure and allow you to nurse effortlessly. You will be stylish without compromising on ease of breastfeeding.

If you are breastfeeding and have an active lifestyle, a sports nursing bra will come in handy. They are made of lightweight and breathable fabric to keep you dry and comfortable as you work out. Plus, sports nursing bras are incredibly comfortable.

Wash Care Guidelines

Ensure your nursing bra is level with no twists before washing. Close the hooks and clasps as well.

Wash white, pink and nude nursing bras separately from anything with color like dark-colored intimates to avoid leaching color.

Use mild detergent when washing your nursing bras and avoid bleach.

Hand wash your nursing bras with cold water to avoid damaging the fabric and extend their lifespan.

Avoid the dryer at all costs. Always airdry your nursing bras in a shade or let them dry in the sunlight.

Do not iron your nursing bra as the heat shrinks the elastic and interferes with its shape overtime.

A nursing bra can last up to six months if properly taken care of and this will also save you lots of money. Maintain good bra hygiene as well to prevent infections.

Nursing Bras Facts and Myths

Nursing bras are boring since they are only available in one style. This is not true. Nursing bras are available in a variety of styles in different colors without compromising on ease of breastfeeding. You can wear any outfit and still breastfeed comfortably when wearing a nursing bra.

Nursing bras cannot enhance the appearance of your breasts and make them look firmer. This is not true. They have a wireless design but can lift your breasts. However, you need to wear the right size.

Nursing bras are not comfortable. This is also a myth. Nursing bras are made of soft, lightweight and breathable materials that feel amazing on the skin for all day comfort. Plus, they are more comfortable than other regular bras.

It’s usually not advisable to wear an underwired nursing bra. Most people believe that these bras can cause breast tissue inflammation, mastitis and breast infection. This remains a myth since there’s no scientific or medical proof to back it up. Mastitis occurs when you wear bras with that fit too tightly. However, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with wearing an underwired nursing bra during pregnancy as long as it has a perfect fit.

You can only wear a nursing bra when breastfeeding. Most people believe in this myth even in this century. Nursing bras come in different designs and patterns to pair well with a variety of outfits without interfering with your ability to breastfeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should I Stop Wearing Nursing Bras?

It depends with how long you plan to breastfeed. You can stop wearing a nursing bra as soon as you stop breastfeeding the baby.

Can I Wear a Regular Bra When Breastfeeding?

Yes! However, a nursing bra is the best option if you are looking for ultimate comfort and support. Choose a bra that you feel comfortable wearing.

What Are the Benefits of a Nursing Bra?

• Nursing bras provide excellent coverage
• They provide ultimate breast support
• They give you a smooth and seamless look
• Nursing bras make breastfeeding easy
• Nursing bras help prevent colostrum from seeping through
• Nursing bras offer enough breast protection as the fabric feels soft against the skin