Updated at: 29-07-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

It’s possible that a well-fitting bra could save your life during pregnancy. It’s a breeze to do, which is good news. We’ve made it simple to check your size whenever you like because we know how much our breasts change during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

There has never been a more ideal time to determine your ideal bra size. Let’s find yours right this second.

To determine if your bra is giving you the best possible fit, you should think about the following details:

  • Tighten the straps till they are comfortable but not too restrictive over your shoulders.
  • There should be no space for liquid to escape or spill out from under the cup when worn.
  • Keep the bra’s center front flat on your chest. It shouldn’t pinch anywhere or ride up too high on your chest, though.
  • It is essential that your band wraps around your body smoothly and without any discomfort.

If you’re having difficulties finding a bra that fits properly, use our bra calculator to get a recommendation, or check out our fit troubleshooter or fit frequently asked questions for more information. If you’re still unsure after reading this, you can always reach out to one of our fitters at [email protected].

Why Do I Need a Maternity Bra?

In pregnancy, your breasts, like the rest of your body, will enlarge and swell. A new band and cup size may be necessary as your pregnancy progresses. As a result of (2), below, we reach this conclusion.

  • Transformations in the ovaries.
  • Having more mass
  • Rib cage widening
  • Swelling.

How to find my maternity bra size

You may get your bra size by following these four steps, or you can take our free Find my fit questionnaire to get an idea. As an alternative, you can watch our fitting videos, which are especially helpful if you are expecting. They’re going to be a huge help to you.

Best maternity bra for pregnancy and nursing 2022: Lace, padded and supportive styles | The Independent

We can’t stress enough the importance of a proper bra fitting, especially during pregnancy. When shopping for a bra, it’s important to keep in mind that your breasts may swell or decrease rapidly during pregnancy.

STEP 01:

Measure your underbust with a tape measure (band)

Take a measurement around the band of your unpadded bra. Take your dimensions using our standard sizing chart, and we’ll do the converting for you in Step 4.

There needs to be a nice, snug fit between the tape measure and the object being measured. You shouldn’t be able to move it. The calculation should begin with the next entire number. A length that is 27.4 inches long should be rounded down to 27 inches. Simply put, you’re a size 30 in bands.

Use the following size charts for generic bands to get your ideal fit. Don’t lose track of this data; you’ll want it later.

STEP 02:

Determine your bust size (cup)

Take a careful measurement around your fullest bust, just as you did before.

Round the next number up to the next whole number. If your bust measurement is 34.6 inches or less, round up to the nearest whole number. Please remember this figure.

STEP 03:

Determine the appropriate cup size.

Simply subtracting your ‘CUP’ measurement from your ‘Universal Band Size’ will give you your ‘Cup Size’ (in inches).

You need a size 30DD if you have a 35″ cup and a 30″ band.

STEP 04:

Take your discoveries and convert them into something useful.

Everything you need to know

How can I tell if my nursing bra is fitted correctly?

The band will fit securely but gently around your body, so there’s no need to worry about it riding up. When you put on a bra, should your breasts spill over the top, the sides, or the bottom? There shouldn’t be any sags or wrinkles in the fabric.

It’s crucial to have a bra with smooth cups and a wire that tucks in neatly beneath and around the breasts. Whether or not a bra is comfortable to wear is the most important factor in choosing the right size.

How many nursing bras do I need?

The “three bra rule” argues that every woman needs three bras: one to wear, one to wash, and one to put away.

What’s the best nursing bra for me?

The best way to answer this question is to consider your own preferences and way of living. Bras that are seamless or wireless are great for sleeping in, lounging around, doing light exercise, or using as a transitional piece when your breasts are still growing.

How to Fit a Nursing Bra: 3 Mistakes Moms Make Bra Shopping

All too often, new parents have everything else they need for their baby except for a good nursing bra.

Do not put off making money until you are desperate for it. A better breastfeeding experience can be had by taking the time to learn how to properly fit a nursing bra.

Not just being “an underwire-free bra” is not enough to qualify as a good breastfeeding top. Look for a breastfeeding bra that is comfortable, stretchy, and does not irritate your skin for the greatest possible fit. So that you can avoid making the same mistakes that other moms do, we have compiled a list of the most frequent ones.

Nursing bra buying guide (Before You Buy series) | Video | BabyCenter

1. Shopping too soon

Because you and your pregnancy are both unique, it might be difficult to predict how your breasts will change. While some mothers report no change in cup size, others claim an increase of four sizes, it varies widely.

Many professionals recommend waiting at least three to four months after giving birth to your baby before getting measured for a more supportive nursing bra. The best time to take a measurement is midday, just before a feeding, when the breasts are at their fullest.

When pregnant, it’s best to wait until the eighth month to start thinking about nursing bras. You will have acquired the majority of your baby weight by then. The size of your breasts at eight months should be similar to the size of your breasts at eight weeks after giving birth, if your body has learned to manage its milk supply.

2. Putting up with an uncomfortable bra

Look for a nursing bra that can stretch and flex with your body as you breastfeed at all hours of the day and night. You will be wearing your bra almost constantly for the first few weeks, day and night. Stay away from anything that can set off your allergies.

Each kind of nursing bra comes with its own size chart or calculator. This means that you should always double-check the store’s website to make sure your estimate is accurate, even if you used a different source to get your measurements.

Using a bra size chart and your own measurements may help you narrow down the options, but the true test will be at home when you try the bra on. That’s the way a new bra should make you feel. The band of your bra should rest flush with the underside of your bust. It ought to be close fitting yet not restrictive.

Try it out and have a seat. Check out how many people are rooting for you by simply standing up. Kneel down and lay flat on the ground. In no circumstance can a bra be allowed to slide down the back.

Many ladies buy a bra with too much room in the cups to avoid this issue. Most nursing bras are constructed from stretchy material that can accommodate size changes, so you won’t need to go up several cup sizes.

3. Forgetting other styles

Like any other type of clothing, nursing and maternity bras come in a wide range of cuts and colors. An excellent nursing bra may be all some women need for sleeping, lounging, and socializing. Most women will feel more at ease during this time period if they have a selection of bras at their disposal, including several styles of strapless bras, sports bras, and pumping bras.

Some pregnant and nursing mothers wonder if they really need two different bras. However, special openings in nursing bras facilitate feeding. Our Simply Sublime Nursing Bra offers full coverage and features clip-down cups, while our French Terry Racerback Nursing & Sleep Bra allows you to slide your breasts out.

During the postpartum period, it’s important to remember that your needs may change. During the first several months of your pregnancy, you will likely stay at home. You’ll want a fabric that’s both soft and smooth, as well as stretchy, so that you can find the right size while still having enough of room for your breasts. Later on, when you plan on going out more frequently, you’ll want a bra with more structure, such as molded cups, adjustable straps, and a sexier design that looks great under your clothes.

Early breastfeeding bras, such as the Organic Cotton Crossover Nursing & Sleep Bra or the Marvella Nursing T-shirt Bra, provide much-needed comfort and support from the get-go.

We really pray that this Nursing Bra Buying Guide may be of use to you as you search for the ideal nursing bra. Our number one goal is to help you relax and bond with your new baby.

If you have any questions about proper bra sizing, please visit our blog or get in touch with us. Our staff is highly experienced in all facets of breast surgery, including but not limited to breast augmentation and reduction. Try out our compatibility evaluation while you’re here, too!

Bonus: How to measure for a nursing bra

Accurate bust measurements are crucial for a flattering fit. To determine your waist size without a soft measuring tape, use a ruler and a ribbon, scarf, sash, or belt.

To find out what size you are, measure your underbust first. This is the region around your rib cage that lies beneath your breasts. Don’t pull too tightly on the tape measure.

You should round your underbust measurements up to the nearest whole number. This rounded number will be your band size from now on.

Take your fullest breast size into account when calculating your size. Wrap the tape measure snugly over your back a few times, then position it across the fullest part of your breasts.

Then, to determine your band size, take your bust measurement and subtract it. Each entire number represents one cup size larger or smaller. When referring to bra sizes, a difference of two inches is considered a B cup, three inches a C cup, four inches a D cup, and so on.

If your underbust measurement is 37 inches, round it up to 38 inches. A cup size of F corresponds to a bust measurement of 44 inches at the fullest point.

You know your bra is too big if:

  • To the nearest whole inch, add one to your underbust measurement (e.g., if your underbust measurement is 37 inches, use 38 inches). If your fullest bust measurement is 44 inches, you are a F cup size.
  • The bra straps go up in the back.
  • The underwire cup of your bra has started to crease.
  • The shoulder straps slip off even when adjusted to the tightest setting.

Your bra is too small if:

  • Breasts are rounded and protrude from the sides and top of the cup.
  • In whatever direction, the bra will “poke” you.
  • When laid flat, the center tends to bulge outward.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Care Team who will do their best to help you locate the perfect bra.

Best Maternity Bras

1. Kindred Braverly Simply Sublime Pregnancy Bra

The elastic in this bra is both strong enough to keep you up and flexible enough to adapt to your ever-shifting body. This bra will keep your ladies secure due to its wide band and three-snap closure.

2. Curve Muse Plus Size Maternity Bra

Having said that, if you have extremely large breasts, you may not have a choice but to wear an underwire bra during your pregnancy. Elastic cups have their limits and won’t always keep you in place. If you must wear an underwire bra, be sure that the underwire does not dig into your breast tissue and that the bra fits you properly.

Use an extender if necessary to ensure a comfortable fit when wearing this bra. This bra is well-suited for women with larger busts due to its supportive construction and fashionable design. It is available in three sizes, guaranteeing that you will always have a fresh, comfy bra on hand.

3. Bamboobies Seamless Pregnancy Bra

For larger busts (up to a size 42F), use the included extension to make this bra work. Extremely comfortable and great for light exercise, bamboo rayon fabric is a natural choice. You may continue to use it after giving birth, thanks to the built-in breastfeeding panels.

4. Mothers en Vogue Seamless Maternity Bralette

This bra, available in cup sizes A through C, was designed for nursing women with smaller busts in mind. Due to its low profile, it won’t be visible under most clothing. This nursing bra is multipurpose, since it is created from a blend of materials that include nylon, spandex, and cotton, and may be used after giving delivery.

5. Gratlin Racerback Seamless Pregnacy Bra

This bra comes in a single size that will fit up to a 32A cup size. Without an underwire, this bra nonetheless provides a secure and comfortable fit thanks to its tightly knitted underband and adjustable hook-and-eye fasteners. In addition, as it lacks padding, it will conform to your body rather than making an artificial impression of your breasts.

6. Motherhood Maternity Sports Wireless Maternity Bra

All sizes (from 1x to 3x) are stretchy and can be worn throughout a woman’s changing breast size. This bra has wide, supportive straps to keep you from sagging under your breasts. All pregnant women, especially those carrying more than usual, will benefit from the extra support provided by the thick band and the cute design.

7. Gratlin Plus-Size Wire-Free Pregnancy Bra

Standard bra sizing requires you to choose your exact band and cup sizes to guarantee a perfect fit. Cotton construction and a wireless design work together to keep your ladies where they belong. This bra has six rows of hook-and-eye closures so that you may make adjustments as your rib cage develops.

8. Kindred Braverly Terry Scoopback Sleep Bra

The stretchy, super-soft French terry fabric will contour to your shifting body all night long as you snooze in blissful relaxation. The Kindred Braverly Sleep Bra is an excellent option for those who need to breastfeed in the middle of the night and value comfort and ease of use. This bra may be tailored to the preferences of any woman thanks to its wide range of available colors and sizes.

9. EMY Pregnancy Sleep Bra

If you’re a mom on a tight budget, this four-pack is for you. In addition to its use during the day, the nursing bras can be worn at night once baby arrives. Also, they are quite cute. The nursing pad compartments in the stretchy cotton-spandex fabric are convenient if you start leaking colostrum in the latter weeks of your pregnancy.

10. Gratlin Comfort Support Nursing Bra

This nursing bra is ideal because we understand how crucial rest is for new mothers. Its extremely soft and smooth fabric ensures a snug yet relaxed fit. It’s perfect for sleeping in because there are no irritating wires or uncomfortable seams.

This bra is specially designed to support pregnant women while they sleep. As your body changes throughout the years, you can stick with the same bra.

11. Hofish 3-Pack Maternity Bras

Additional structure need not result in a more substantial fabric. This bra will improve your confidence and sex appeal with its deeper V-neck and distinctive push-up padding, all while offering cool, breathable support.

The bra won’t slide off your shoulders thanks to the wider underband and the non-slip straps. The drop-cup and strap may be unclipped with a single hand to make feeding time a breeze.

12. Carriwell GelWire Maternity Nursing Bra

This new “gel wire” bra provides support without causing discomfort or injury during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In order to protect breast tissue, the supplied gel molds around breasts, but it is still malleable enough to be moved around when your body shifts. A broad band and strong straps provide you the support you need without making the bra look like it was designed for sports.

13. Bravado! Seamless Nursing and Maternity Bra

This revolutionary “gel wire” bra offers support without the risk of injury or pain, making it ideal for use throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. The provided gel forms to breasts for support and protection, and it’s flexible enough to be repositioned in response to movement. You can get the support you need from the bra without looking like a gymnast in it thanks to the wide band and sturdy straps.

The four-way stretch fabric and removable foam inserts make nursing comfortable and discrete. This nursing bra is available in a broad variety of sizes to accommodate any breastfeeding mother’s needs.

14. Playtex Seamless Nursing Pregnancy Bra

The seamless construction and elastic fabric make this bra soft and irritant-free. It has a wide band with hook-and-eye loops for further support and an X-Temp feature. Easy-to-use strap clips let you to continue wearing it after giving baby.

15. Gepai Wire-free Front Button Maternity Bra

Unfortunately, many modern bras lack excitement. These floral bras with a front-button style will bring out your best assets. These bras don’t have underwires but yet provide the support you need with wide straps and four hook-and-eye closures at the back.

16. Aibrou Wirefree Padded Pregnancy Bra

It comes with a bra extender so that you can get the most use out of your bra. There is a removable and washable cushion included as well. The elastic construction and nursing access panels make it suitable for use after delivery.

17. Fittin Racerback Pregnancy Sports Bra

Avoid nursing and maternity bras in favor of a regular sports bra if you plan on exercising frequently during your pregnancy. This option prevents unwanted chafing and keeps you dry and comfortable by wicking sweat away from your skin. All of these considerations are more crucial than the equipment’s label when it comes to exercising during pregnancy.

Nursing Bra

18. AKAMC Removable Padded Maternity Sports Bras

These bras are made of a wicking fabric that allows your skin to breathe and features removable cups. When the time comes that you no longer require the support and protection that the cups offer, simply remove them. The racerback may be thrown into the washing machine after you’ve finished working out.

19. Hofish Full Bust Matenity Bralette

This affordable bra will support you during pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding. Its stretchy, forgiving construction makes it suitable for people of varying body types. This bra is suitable for those with expanding rib cages because it comes with an additional set of bra straps. The nursing panels allow for its use immediately following childbirth.

20. Caramel Cantina Pregnancy Bras

In this deal, rather than paying for just one bra, you’ll be able to obtain three for the price of one. In addition, you have the option of selecting either a classic color scheme or a more modern, vivid one. Caramel Catina bras are great for new moms and new moms-to-be because they can be washed in the machine and have clips to facilitate breastfeeding.

21. ILoveSia 3-Pack Maternity Bras

For the price of one regular bra, you can purchase three maternity bras. Each of these bras is made from a supple, breathable fabric and features detachable, molded foam cups and an adjustable strapping system. Conversely, a knitted underband allows more air circulation and won’t aggravate your skin.

Moms need to always be ready for everything. If you or your child have a tendency to leak, this set is a fantastic choice because it is affordable without sacrificing features.

FAQs

What are maternity bras – and do I need one?

You’ll need a certain style of bra to support your growing breasts during pregnancy. Pregnancy bras are characterized by wider straps, a softer cotton lining, and additional hooks and eyes on the band. Some bras have an underwire as standard, whereas others don’t.

During pregnancy, a supportive bra is essential. During pregnancy, your breasts will develop in size and become more sensitive, just as the rest of your body will. Postpartum hormonal shifts, weight gain, rib cage expansion, and the maturation of milk-producing mammary glands all play a role in this physical alteration.

You should invest in a few high-quality pregnancy bras instead of trying to economize by utilizing your regular bras (since you already have maternity garments). The growth of glandular tissues can add at least two ounces to each breast, so it’s likely that your breasts are getting heavier as a result.

When should I start buying maternity bras?

If you’re pregnant and finding that your regular bras are becoming too restrictive, it’s time to make the investment in a pregnancy bra. For most pregnant women, this starts to happen around the sixth week. If your bra doesn’t fit properly, there are visible dents where the band or strap used to be, or your breasts are leaking out of the cup, it’s probably time to replace it.

As a result of pregnancy, your breasts will eventually transform in a way that is specific to you. Your cup size may continue to expand throughout your pregnancy, or it may increase during the first trimester and then level out until your milk supply increases in the last few months. As your baby grows, you may discover that you need to replace your bras more frequently than usual.

What’s the difference between maternity bras and nursing bras?

Unlike pregnancy bras, nursing bras contain clasps or panels that allow for easy access to the nipples, making breastfeeding more comfortable and convenient. There are many different styles of nursing bras available.

Maternity bras or larger sizes of their favorite pre-pregnancy bras are often purchased early on in the pregnancy, while nursing bras are typically switched over in the third trimester. Late in pregnancy, when you may be feeling uncomfortable and weary, nursing bras that provide soft, wire-free support can be a great solution for your problems.. Additionally, if you choose to nurse your child, you’ll require these items after the birth of your child.

How many maternity and nursing bras do I need?

As the pregnancy progresses, many women convert to nursing bras from their original bras, or to larger sizes of their beloved bras from before pregnancy. When you’re in the later stages of pregnancy and experiencing discomfort and fatigue, a nursing bra that offers gentle, wire-free support can be a lifesaver. If you plan to breastfeed your newborn, you’ll need these supplies, too.

How to find the best nursing bras and maternity bras

Most women buy a nursing bra during their third trimester of pregnancy, but many buy a maternity bra or a larger size of their beloved bra before they get pregnant. Nursing bras that offer gentle, wire-free support are ideal for the late stages of pregnancy, when you may be experiencing discomfort and fatigue. Plus, after giving delivery, you’ll need these things if you plan to breastfeed your baby.

Trying on a variety of styles and sizes in a store is the best method to get the perfect one that fits you well. Lingerie stores offer complimentary sizing services. Remember to check the brand’s size guide and your own measurements before making an online purchase; you can always send back an item that doesn’t fit.

Nursing and maternity bras require sturdy seams and straps to last through their intended use. If you have breasts larger than a DD cup size, you should look for a bra with straps that are at least an inch wide at the shoulders.

Standing or sitting, there shouldn’t be any bunching, pinching, or sliding. You know you have a poorly fitting bra when the chest band pokes into your breasts, the cups spill over, or the straps fall off your shoulders no matter how tight you try to make them. It’s best to avoid wearing a bra that causes you discomfort because that discomfort will only increase with continued use.

While pregnant, some women find that soft-cup bras are more pleasant to wear than underwire ones because the wires don’t pinch. Finding clothing that is comfortable and has no seams, like a blend of cotton and synthetic, is ideal.

Nursing and pregnancy bras come in a wide variety of styles and materials, from ultra-sexy lace bralettes to cotton ones with soft cups in lovely patterns. You’ll have a lot of options to choose from whether you want to stick with the underwear style you wore before pregnancy or try something different.

How do you measure for a maternity bra?

Use the measuring tape to take measurements around your body, including your waist and under your arms. Place the tape measure above your bust. While peering intently into the mirror, check that the measuring tape is perpendicular to the floor behind you. Just take a deep breath and double-check that your hands aren’t trapped behind the tape.

When should I start wearing a maternity bra?

When you start to notice a difference in your breast size, usually toward the end of your first trimester, it’s time to switch to a maternity/nursing bra.

How many sizes do you go up during pregnancy?

If you are trying to conceive when you buy your bridesmaid dress, order a size up. If you become pregnant between now and the wedding, you won’t have to worry about not fitting into your dress.

Should I wear a bra at night while pregnant?

If you normally sleep without a bra but are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should start wearing your maternity bra at night. The decision to wear a bra, or not, rests solely with the individual.

Do you have to wear non wired bras when pregnant?

You can keep wearing your underwired bras throughout your pregnancy if the wire doesn’t scrape into your skin. However, some people find that non-wired bras provide more support and comfort.

Do breasts go back to normal size after pregnancy?

According to Dr. Kolker, a woman’s breast size might grow by one to two cups during pregnancy due to the swelling of the glandular tissue. After giving delivery, a woman’s breasts often shrink to their size before pregnancy.

Is a Maternity Bra the Same as a Nursing Bra?

While certain nursing bras can double as maternity bras, the two are not interchangeable.

Can you see how that works now?

A maternity bra is specially designed to support your breasts as they get larger and heavier during pregnancy. Similar to how sports bras are designed to fit larger, milk-filled breasts, nursing bras expose the nipple without the wearer having to take off their bra. Typically, a nursing bra will have some sort of device (clasp, clip, panel, etc.) that allows the wearer to expose her breast.

Remember

Wearing a nursing bra while pregnant is perfectly fine. You shouldn’t go out and buy a fancy nursing bra just because you believe you’ll need it for a few months because your breast size will change a lot as your pregnancy goes on and as the postpartum time continues.

How to Choose the Right Nursing Bra for You - Baby Chick

Your breasts may expand shortly after giving birth, and they will likely change significantly as your milk begins to come in. It is possible to use two distinct cup measures on the same day. At around the four-month mark, you may find that your breast milk supply has diminished to the point where you need to buy a new bra.

If you’re pregnant, you should buy a maternity bra because you need one right now, not because you think you’ll need one later. There is no guarantee that your nursing panel-equipped maternity bra will ever again fit.

How Many Maternity Bras Do I Need?

Even if you’re sure you’ll need them for the whole nine months of your pregnancy, we still don’t recommend stocking up on a bunch of maternity bras all at once. This is due to the fact that as time passes, your body will undergo modifications, making current garments excessively tight in a month or two.

Having many pregnancy bras allows you to wash and wear each one less frequently. Then go out and get another couple of them.