Congratulations mama, you’re pregnant. Now with a bun in the oven, your body is going through a tremendous amount of change. Along with your rapidly expanding waistline, your breasts are also changing in shape and size. While most women consider this a happy problem, finding the right bra while pregnant can prove to be a true challenge.
What exactly is going on with the girls?
Why is finding the right bra while pregnant such a challenge? Firstly, as your pregnancy progresses, your bra cup size will change, more than once. Towards the final trimester and even after giving birth, your breasts are likely to be larger than they’ve ever been.
So what’s the problem? Isn’t it as simple as buying a bigger sized bra? While that is an option, most gynaecologists, midwives and lactation consultants don’t suggest you do so.
And that’s because your breasts will get larger and constantly engorged soon after giving birth. But after some time, when your baby’s feeding schedule regulates, and you start establishing a mature milk supply, the size of your breasts will stabilise.
Nursing bras are the perfect solution for they save you the headache of finding the right bra while pregnant. Nursing bras are easily adjustable and can suit your changing bra size throughout your pregnancy and nursing journey.
Nursing Bras Vs Regular Bras
You’d be surprised to know that many women, mums included, don’t really know what’s the deal with nursing bras. Many of them are also under the misconception that nursing bras are hideous and unfashionable.
That might have been the case in the past but nursing bras of today are just as sexy, feminine and appealing as regular bras albeit designed with comfort and accessibility as the top priority.
If you think nursing bras can’t be sexy, think again! | Image source: iStock
Here are the main differences between regular and nursing bras:
- Nursing bras have more hooks to alter the band size
- There are more hooks (top and bottom) for additional support
- Bands are wider to support and lift your breasts that are full and heavy with milk
- Most nursing bras are made out of cotton as they dry quickly and ensure your nipples are dry for nursing
Apart from these, nursing bras also come with clasps for easy access to the breasts. One of the most sought after designs has clasps at the top of the fabric. This enables you to fold the fabric down toward your armpit. Other designs allow you to move the fabric around the breast and pop it forward.
Underwire bras are not recommended during nursing for tight-fitting underwire bras can push into the breast tissue and this may cause clogged milk ducts.
If you must get an underwire bra, get a good quality nursing one.
Finding the right bra while pregnant
One of the hardest parts of finding the right bra during pregnancy is getting the right fit. In fact, 80% of women are wearing the wrong size!
Finding the right size is not just about looking good, there’s an important reason for it. If the bra size is too small, it will lay on top of the breast tissue and strain it. This can lead to plugged ducts.
Here’s how you get the band measurements:
- Put on a non-padded bra that fits you well
- Wrap the measuring tape around your rib cage, right under the bustline
- This will determine your band size, eg: 36 inches
- If you are in-between sizes, either round the measurement up or down, depending on whether you want a snug or more relaxed fit
When it comes to finding the perfect nursing bra, consider the Mengmeimei Breastfeeding Bra. This bra is designed with comfort and accessibility in mind, made with cotton for quick drying, and features a front opening button closure. It provides the support and convenience that nursing moms need, without compromising on style.
For the cup measurement, get the measuring tape around the fullest part of your breast. Make sure you don’t measure too loose or too tight.
You need to measure the fullest part of your breast.
To save yourself the trouble, simply head to any lingerie store and ask the staff to assist you. Most often, they will be able to provide you with accurate measurements.
It’s best not to order it online until you are sure of the size. If you do order online, get it from a website that offers a full money-back guarantee or return policies.
The correct way to put on a nursing bra
Now that you’re done finding the right bra during pregnancy, it’s time to put it on and feel fantastic! Yes, you read that right. You need to know how to put it in the right way.
Bend over slightly and lift your breasts into the cups. As you stand, glide your breasts into the cups, one at a time. Here’s a visual guide:
Image Credit: Mohit Lakhmani
Washing your nursing bra
You’ve gone through all the trouble of finding the right bra while pregnant. Do make sure that you take good care of it so that you don’t have to keep buying new ones. Mind you, good nursing bras don’t come cheap!
You want to ensure that you maintain the elasticity of the bra. The best way to do this is to handwash your nursing bra and leave it to dry. Do not put in the washing machine or dryer.
By the way, have you considered using the “Pregnant Woman Loose Bra“? It’s a great option for pregnant women who want easy feeding and comfortable material. This breastfeeding underwear can help maintain the elasticity of your bra. Remember to handwash and air dry your nursing bra to ensure its longevity.
There you go mums, a quick and easy guide to finding the right bra while pregnant. You really don’t want to ignore this. Caring for your breasts is important and also helps to reduce the likeliness of it sagging.
Source: Babble.Com
