More than likely, you won’t just rely on one nursing bra. But even so, you want to look for bras that can retain their shape, supportive features, and clasps in the wash. Look for styles with reinforced stitching and durable fabrics that are meant to be cleaned in a washing machine. (But to protect your investment and prolong their lifespan, wash your nursing bras in a mesh laundry bag.) Budget The entire breast should fit comfortably inside the bra cup, with no breast tissue bulging above or at the sides. If you’re planning on nursing after you give birth, one of the most important things you can do is buy several quality nursing bras. Best camisole with built-in nursing bra: Playtex Maternity Women’s Nursing Camisole with Built-in Bra Breast Cancer Care. (2019) Breast changes during and after pregnancy. Available at: https://breastcancernow.org/information-support/have-i-got-breast-cance…? [Accessed 12th March 2022]

The Simply Sublime Tank is a nursing wardrobe staple that also works for lounging, layering, sleeping, or doing yoga. The extra-long hip length cut won’t ride up and also provides enough coverage for burgeoning baby bumps. The built-in bra can accommodate multiple cup sizes. The straps should not carry the weight of the breasts. They should sit on your shoulders without slipping or digging in. They can be adjusted to make sure they are comfortable.

The Organic Cotton Bra is a super soft, light support bra with pull-aside breastfeeding access and no underwire, ensuring maximum comfort for nighttime breastfeeding. The front is double-lined to hold your nursing pads in place.

This is a question that Dukas-Janakos hears a lot. In addition to working with Fortune 500 companies to set up lactation spaces, Dukas-Janakos has two Healthy Horizons retail stores in the Bay Area that sell breast pumps, nursing accessories and nursing bras. Enhanced support: It’s not uncommon for your breasts to grow larger during pregnancy and stay fuller while nursing. So, we looked at bras that can provide sufficient support. When your body is changing, it’s well worth finding underwear that fits your new shape. Being comfortable and well supported can make a difference to how you feel. Further information NHS Start4Life. (2019) Week 23 – your second trimester. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/start4life/pregnancy/week-by-week/2nd-trimester/week… [Accessed 12th March 2022]

Why should you invest in nursing bras?

Newly pregnant women often come in telling her that they're fine wearing their regular bra. Then, Dukas-Janakos says, " By the fifth month of pregnancy, a lot of people are like, 'I can't make my regular bra work anymore. I need something new.'" During pregnancy, many people transition directly to a nursing bra rather than opting for a maternity bra. Typically, nursing bras tend to feature more enhanced support than standard bras. This can include: Adjustability: Your breast size may change over the course of your nursing journey (and even over the course of the day based on how full you are with milk!), so it's a good idea to look for a bra with customizable features. For nursing bras that are more structured like regular bras, make sure there are adjustable straps and hooks so you can find the best fit. Other nursing bras utilize stretchy fabric and flexible foam that are designed to accommodate fluctuating sizes. Although it may be tempting to make do with what you already have, a well-designed nursing bra works with your body, not against it, helping you to enjoy your baby even more – plus purchasing your first nursing bra is an exciting milestone! Why should you invest in nursing bras?

Many experts agree that the most accurate time to size yourself for contoured cup nursing bras is three to four months after delivery, which gives you time to establish and regulate your milk supply. The best time to measure is midday, when the breasts are full, before a feeding. They’re also great for those who want to show a little peek of lace or a decorative strap pattern, or who might want the support of a great, high-impact sports bra without the hassle of trying to crawl in and out of one. Your cup size is determined by subtracting your band size from your bust measurement. Each inch of difference is a letter. For example, if your bust measurement is 37 inches and your band size is 34 inches, the difference of three inches equals a C cup. A four-inch difference would equal a D cup, and so on. Shopping for a nursing bra isn’t too different from normal bra shopping, but you’ll need to consider a few additional factors.Contoured cup bras have a smooth design and cups that fold down for easy nursing access. These bras are usually much more structured than other nursing bras, so they’re best for moms who are three to four months postpartum and looking for more support during public outings. Another amazing option is the nursing tank, featuring moderate support and clasps for discreet nursing. You can wear a nursing tank on its own or layer it under a button-down or cardigan for extra coverage. Some department stores and specialist shops offer a free measuring service and a range of maternity bras (Breast Cancer Care, 2019). How to tell if a bra fits well