Nursing Bras

If you decide to breastfeed, you may want to invest in a nursing bra. A breastfeeding bra can help support you and make breastfeeding a little easier. These bras are designed to open from the top or sides so you do not have to worry about unhooking or flipping down your bra when breastfeeding.

What to Look for in a Breastfeeding Bra

• You should be able to easily open your bra with one hand, and without looking at it, for discreet nursing. Always remember you will be trying to hold your baby with one hand while undoing your bra with the other.
• The bra should support your breast while open. This will help with breastfeeding and in closing your bra.
• Try to avoid bras that open completely at the front. It will be difficult to close after feedings.
• Nursing bras should be comfortable and never painful.
• Try to avoid bras with an underwire, which have been associated with mastitis, a painful infection of the milk ducts.
• Always choose a bra made from cotton to prevent thrush.
• Do not choose a bra with a plastic lining. Plastic linings can trap moisture against your nipple and increasing the chance of getting thrush.
• Try to have at least three nursing bras--one for the laundry, one to wear and one for the drawer.
• If you are large chested, you will need a nursing bra with extra support.
• If you are small chested, you may want to consider going braless.
• If you don’t like the idea of a breastfeeding bra, you may consider buying a stretchy bra that can be lifted above the breast during feedings.

The Perfect Fit

Many women buy their nursing bras before they deliver. This is not recommended since most women’s breasts get larger when their milk comes in—sometimes as much as two cup sizes. During your postpartum time, you will need a bra, but you may want to purchase a cheap one or one that expands or shrinks. Once the milk supply is established, most women’s breast sizes decrease. This is the time to find a good bra that fits well. The key is to be patient, and understand that you may need to purchase different sizes of bras through your breastfeeding time.

Nursing Bras and Shape of Breasts

Nursing bras are designed for comfort of breastfeeding women, not to prevent sagging and stretching of your breasts over time. Wearing a breastfeeding bra will probably not prevent a little bit of sagging and stretching of your breasts. Firmness and breast shape is determined mostly by heredity. After you wean your baby, you may find your breasts are a little smaller and droopier whether or not you wore a bra. However, with a healthy diet, many women find their breasts become more firm over time.

In Conclusion

Try not to spend a great deal of money on a lactation bra, especially the first few months. Mothering Maternity, Pea in a Pod and Mimi Maternitywill all help you find a quality bra that fits well. And remember that breastfeeding bras are never returnable.