Updated at: 12-10-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

We can all agree that maternity clothing, especially maternity bras, are difficult to put on. When and how many maternity bras should you buy? I had to answer these questions for each of my pregnancies, and I thought you’d be interested in what I learned.

Is a maternity bra necessary during pregnancy? Getting fitted for your first maternity bra at roughly three months–right at the start of the second trimester–is generally recommended by bra specialists.

A standard underwire bra won’t provide the support and comfort you need by the second trimester, when you’re likely to have outgrown your initial size as well as become more sensitive and painful than before.

Even yet, you don’t have to spend a fortune or give up your comfort in order to save money. The truth about maternity bras and the optimum time to buy them is here!

When to Buy a Maternity Bra

We can all agree that maternity clothing, especially maternity bras, are difficult to put on. When and how many maternity bras should you buy? I had to answer these questions for each of my pregnancies, and I thought you’d be interested in what I learned.

Is a maternity bra necessary during pregnancy? Getting fitted for your first maternity bra at roughly three months–right at the start of the second trimester–is generally recommended by bra specialists.

A standard underwire bra won’t provide the support and comfort you need by the second trimester, when you’re likely to have outgrown your initial size as well as become more sensitive and painful than before.

Even yet, you don’t have to spend a fortune or give up your comfort in order to save money. The truth about maternity bras and the optimum time to buy them is here!

Do I Need a Maternity Bra?

Maternity bras don’t exist at all, according to my investigation.

Let’s say you need a nursing bra. Clip-down cups on a nursing bra allow you to breastfeed without having to remove your bra.

Buying a maternity bra - BabyCentre UK

In the early months of breastfeeding, when your baby is struggling to latch and you’re dealing with swollen breasts and cracking nipples, you don’t want to make do; you want the gear that will make your life simple and easy. Experienced moms can get by with sports bras or regular ones that roll down.

However, unlike nursing bras, maternity bras do not have to meet the same technical requirements. Marketers frequently plaster the “maternity” label on low-cost bras before charging more. A few good maternity bras, however, can help alleviate some of the discomfort you may experience while pregnant.

Here are the Problems Maternity Bras Solve

Maternity bras can help with the following issues:

  • Pregnant women’s breasts might become exceedingly sore and sensitive.
  • When you’re pregnant, your rib cage expands to support the growth of your baby, making your current bra tight and uncomfortable.
  • Because of the increased sensitivity, common bra styles like underwires and lace can be exceedingly unpleasant and even painful when worn while pregnant.
  • If you have large or swollen breasts, a bra with thicker straps and a more supportive structure will be more comfortable for you in the long run. For the time being, strapless bras are out of the question.

Many expectant mothers may need at least one new bra during their pregnancy, although other women prefer to use bra extenders to fit their current bras. The majority of medical professionals advise getting fitted at the conclusion of the first or beginning of the second trimester, and then again at the end of the pregnancy.

The fact remains, though, that each person is unique, as are their bodies, which develop and evolve at varying speeds. Pregnancy bras can last as long as you need them to, or they can be swapped out every two months or even less frequently.

When it comes to pregnant bras, you may decide to forego them all together and instead opt for bigger, more comfortable sizes in soft materials. When it comes to wearing maternity bras, there’s no right way or wrong way.

If you want to get the most out of your maternity bras and save money, here are some recommendations to help you get the most out of them and make sure that your investment pays off for you.

How to Find (and Use) a Maternity Bra Size Calculator

To begin, you must know your own height and weight. If you can’t obtain a professional fitting for your maternity bra, you can still utilize a maternity bra size calculator to find the best fit.

Pregnancy bra size calculators from two of the best maternity and nursing bra makers are available here and here. Obviously, these aren’t infallible methods, and you’ll still need a tape measure, but if you can’t afford a professional fitting, they will do.

Here’s What You Should Look For in a Maternity Bra

Whether or not your bra is designated as “maternity” or “nursing,” the following features should be included:

  • Look for molded foam cups with replaceable pads instead of underwires. Push-up bras are a thing of the past.
  • Look for a material that is comfortable and breathable, and avoid the lace trim.
  • For the most part, racerbacks and t-backs have thicker straps and are therefore more supporting.
  • Make sure you obtain three levels of clasps and at least five or six distinct settings for clasp closures when you buy a bra.
  • Look for fabrics that are elastic enough to support growth of 1-2 cups.

Do I Need Maternity Sports Bras and Sleep Bras?

It’s also possible to find a variety of bras. Sleeping wearing a bra may not be something you’re used to, but it may become necessary as your breasts expand. A sleep bra, on the other hand, is distinct from an ordinary bra in that it focuses on comfort rather than providing definition and shape.

Sleep bras, on the other hand, can be improved by purchasing nursing sleep bras. Aside from the fact that they are just as comfortable as maternity or non-maternity sleeping bras, they can be used for breastfeeding as well!

You may not have given much thought to a sports bra before, but as your breasts grow, you’ll need more support. Make sure you get a high-impact nursing sports bra, as this bra will work for both breastfeeding and wearing normally. Aside from the clasps, no one will be able to tell what’s inside.

How Do You Determine Your Nursing Bra Size While You’re Pregnant?

It is common for your breasts to increase in size by around a week after giving delivery. They’ll go down again once your milk has arrived and your body has had a chance to control its production. So why is it so vital to use elastic, supporting material?

So, we often propose utilizing nursing bras as maternity bras, as they can be used again at some point, depending on the length of time you breastfeed.

How Many Maternity Bras Do I Need?

It is recommended to have three bras for breastfeeding: one for storing, one for washing, and one to use. For everyday wear, we recommend having at least two maternity bras so that one can be worn while the other is being washed.

A good rule of thumb is that you should have 2-3 for everyday use, one or two for sleeping, and one or two maternity sports bras, depending on how active you are during your pregnancy. The Cake Maternity Mousse Contour Bra is my go-to everyday maternity bra, and it also works beautifully as a nursing bra. For everyday wear, the Mousse bra from Cake Maternity is perfect because it is wire-free for optimal comfort while yet providing the definition most women desire.

The Truth About Underwire

If you’re a nurse, you may hear that wearing an underwire can reduce your milk supply or trigger mastitis. Underwire isn’t always your buddy when you’re pregnant, but that’s not always the case either.

The most important argument is that today’s bras are so comfortable that there’s no reason to compromise. As a result, there’s a growing movement away from high, padded bras and toward more natural breast shapes. Is it possible to get a nursing bra with an underwire for pregnant women? Yes! Are they legal to use if you choose? Yes! Don’t be scared to experiment with non-underwire choices.

When Do I Need to Buy Maternity Clothes?

Buying a pregnancy bra and maternity clothing at the same time is a very personal decision. Ultimately, the decision rests with you. Maternity garments, such as maternity bras, are quite comfortable, and it’s difficult to stop using them once you start using them.

The cost of maternity clothing may be pretty significant, especially if you have to replace your casual, sporty, and work attire, so finding ways to extend your current wardrobe can be extremely advantageous if you’re looking for ways to save money.

Best maternity bras

We solicited the help of a variety of pregnant women to help us compile a list of the finest maternity bras. When they were pregnant, they wore their bras to the office, to yoga, to babysitting, and even to bed! It is important to us that the best maternity bras are comfortable to wear, provide adequate support, and come in the correct cup size.

Elomi Molly Nursing Bra

If you have a larger bust, you may have a harder time finding a good maternity bra than most. Sizes 44HH and higher are now available in the Elomi Molly Nursing Bra. Georgia Cox, a four-months-pregnant woman, says she was pleased with the three-piece cups since they were designed with both shape and comfort in mind. With its underwired design, you won’t have to sacrifice lift during your pregnancy or breastfeeding. Lightweight, silky, and able to drain away sweat, this fabric is ideal for the hotter months of the year. Breastfeeding is made easier with the use of quick-release cups.

Mamalicious Maternity Nursing Soft Bra with Lace Trim

For women with smaller breasts, this unpadded, non-wired bra is ideal. Those with larger breasts can also wear it, but only to bed or about the house. Sally Baird, who is six months pregnant, said of the material: “I totally forgot I was wearing it.” As a result, “it’s a racer back style, which makes it comfortable to wear but also means that you can’t modify the straps.” ” It’s important to keep this in mind while purchasing a bra for pregnant women. In addition, it’s great for fuss-free breastfeeding once the baby arrives thanks to the double-layer construction.

Ann Summers The Glorious Maternity & Nursing Flexi-Wire Bra

Ann Summers has recently included maternity bras to their product line, promising confidence-enhancing apparel for all stages of pregnancy. Using a ‘flexi wire’, which is both soft and bendable, this bra allows expectant mothers to wear wires without feeling any discomfort. While there are some drawbacks, especially as the pregnancy continues, the lacey style of the bra does make it better suited to occasional use than daily wear.

Karla Shepherd, who is seven months pregnant, says she’d keep it for a night out. “My favorite feature of the bra was the gold magnetic closure that allowed easy breastfeeding access. Compared to an evident clip hook, this is significantly more attractive and discrete. It’s a minor detail, but it adds to the bra’s fashion appeal more than its practicality. Sadly, because the clasps are magnetic, this bra is not recommended for pacemakers.

Comfortable cotton nursing bra, maternity bra, breastfeeding bra.34BC-42BC - Áo ngực cho con bú | ThờiTrangNữ.vn

JoJo Maman Bébé Emma-Jane Zara Maternity & Nursing Bra

Don’t be scared off by the ‘one size fits all’ cups; this bra is perfect for women of all sizes. It’s all thanks to its crown jewel: the silky, extremely flexible material that grows with your shifting form. It’s easy to clean and maintains its shape, which isn’t usually the case with non-wired bras. Whether or whether you remove the replaceable foam padding is entirely up to you. In particular, the clips on the nursing cup and the clasps on the back impressed our tester.

For eight-month pregnant Fiona Wilson, “they’re incredibly straightforward to use. Some can be tight, but this was easy to do one-handed – very handy when you’re holding a newborn!”

Seraphine Bamboo Nursing Bras – Twin Pack

Bamboo is a sustainable and renewable resource, and this bra is made from it. Additionally, the material is hypoallergenic and can assist regulate the body’s temperature. This bra is excellent in terms of comfort. Karla gushes, “It is SO silky and comfy!” In fact, I’d sleep in it, as well as wear it during the day. It’s a perfect fit.” With so many hook and eye options on the back strap, it’s easy to fine-tune the fit of this backpack. Millie Mackintosh has also been spotted wearing this bra while nursing her baby.

Royce Florence Nursing Bra

Style and functionality in perfect harmony No list of the best maternity bras would be complete without a mention of this model, thanks to the high praise it received from our reviewers. It appears to be a really attractive lace bralette at first glance, proving that you can still feel trendy and sultry while pregnant. But the lace isn’t just pretty to look at; it’s also incredibly elastic, so you’ll be able to grow into it. The bra has twice as many hooks and eyes as the ordinary bra, allowing it to be stretched by half a size. Despite the plunging neckline, Sally thought it had a nice balance between coverage and modesty. “It converts effortlessly to a racer back with drop-down cups for nursing when the time comes,” says the designer. This maternity bra doesn’t scream “mumsy” in any way shape or form. The contoured cups guarantee that it still provides enough lift and support, despite the absence of padding or wiring. It’s the tiniest details that have the greatest impact. Karla is a fan of the bra’s style, fit, and overall appearance. “The design and lace are lovely, the inside is comfortable, and the hook and eyes are easy to adjust as you get older,” says the reviewer. Size down if you’re concerned about the fit, or think of this as a style you can grow into during your pregnancy.

Cake Maternity Chantilly Nursing Bralette

No list of the best maternity bras would be complete without a mention of this model, thanks to the high praise it received from our reviewers. It appears to be a really attractive lace bralette at first glance, proving that you can still feel trendy and sultry while pregnant. But the lace isn’t just pretty to look at; it’s also incredibly elastic, so you’ll be able to grow into it. The bra has twice as many hooks and eyes as the ordinary bra, allowing it to be stretched by half a size. Despite the plunging neckline, Sally thought it had a nice balance between coverage and modesty. “It converts effortlessly to a racer back with drop-down cups for nursing when the time comes,” says the designer.

Freya Erin Moulded Nursing Bra

Pregnancy may be an exhilarating and perplexing experience all at the same time. A complete wardrobe overhaul can make you feel like you’ve lost some of your self-worth. This is why our testers adored the Freya Erin Moulded Breastfeeding Bra by Erin. While pregnant, Fiona Wilson found it comforting to wear “a normal bra” since it “looks like a normal bra,” she adds. However, “the cups are highly sculpted which lends itself to a flattering silhouette under clothing, but does necessitate a less-comfortable fit.” However, all clasps are simple to fasten and unfasten in a hurry, so it’s simple to remove when you arrive home. In addition, the size range is excellent, accommodating a broad variety of body types.

Cake Maternity Lotus Hands-free Pumping Bra

Keeping up with your prenatal workouts? ‘ There’s a chance this would be a good choice for you. Sally comments, “I found it to be the excellent support for my yoga lessons.”. Because of the two layers, you won’t fall out when you lean over. Once the baby arrives, the extra layer can be used as a pumping bra in addition to spill-proof support. In addition, the crossover racerback eases the strain on your shoulders. True to size means that internet purchasing is a breeze. Currently, there are three color possibilities, but our favorite is the trendy tie-dye.

When should you start wearing a maternity bra?

A maternity bra can be purchased at any time during your pregnancy. It all boils down to what you like, how your body changes when pregnant, and what you think is right. For Seraphine maternity brand director Chelsey Olivier, the greatest moment to swap bras is when they become uncomfortable. In most cases, this occurs throughout the first trimester.” Typically, women notice that their breasts begin to expand before they see a significant lump.” It’s a good idea to wait until your second or third trimester if your boobs haven’t grown or changed form considerably.

The nicest part about maternity bras is that they’re still useful after the baby is born. Many of these bras are made to fit and support your bust after childbirth as well as when you’re nursing. Laura Franklin, a client advisor at Bravissimo, advises new mothers to use a non-wired bra for the first few weeks following childbirth. It is better to wear a non-wired style to minimize any discomfort or problems like mastitis as the milk starts to flow in. ” Because of this, many women wear their maternity bras after the birth of their child.

FAQs

When should you start wearing maternity bras?

Three months into your pregnancy is the ideal time to get your first maternity bra adjusted, according to most experts.

Which maternity bra should I buy?

Your breasts should not be put under unnecessary strain by the bra, which should provide enough support and lift. The nipples of your infant or the breast pump should be conveniently accessible thanks to the bra’s detachable panels. The back band of the bra should be wide, and there should be four hooks on it so that you may customize it to fit your shape.

How many maternity bras do I need?

It’s a good idea to keep a few extra bras on hand just in case. You may need to change your breasts more regularly since they are leaking. Hand-washing your bras with mild soap and avoiding soaking them in bleach or diaper-cleaning solutions is the best way to keep them in good condition and avoid irritating your skin.

Should I wear a bra at night while pregnant?

Pregnant or breast-feeding women should wear their maternity bra to bed if it makes them feel more secure. It is entirely up to you whether or not to wear a bra, and you are under no obligation to do so.

What happens if I don’t wear a bra during pregnancy?

Wearing one when pregnant is not contraindicated for any reason related to your health. Some women prefer them, while others find them inconvenient. Pregnancy underwire bras are a source of controversy because of the possibility that the wire will restrict blood flow and impede the production of breastfeeding, which begins even before the baby is born.

Do I Need a Maternity Bra?

Maternity bras don’t exist at all, according to my investigation.

Let’s say you need a nursing bra. Clip-down cups on a nursing bra allow you to breastfeed without having to remove your bra.

In the early months of breastfeeding, when your baby is struggling to latch and you’re dealing with swollen breasts and cracking nipples, you don’t want to make do; you want the gear that will make your life simple and easy. Experienced moms can get by with sports bras or regular ones that roll down.

However, unlike nursing bras, maternity bras do not have to meet the same technical requirements. Marketers frequently plaster the “maternity” label on low-cost bras before charging more. A few good maternity bras, however, can help alleviate some of the discomfort you may experience while pregnant.

Here are the Problems Maternity Bras Solve

Maternity bras can help with the following issues:

  • Pregnant women’s breasts might become exceedingly sore and sensitive.
  • When you’re pregnant, your rib cage expands to support the growth of your baby, making your current bra tight and uncomfortable.
  • Because of the increased sensitivity, common bra styles like underwires and lace can be exceedingly unpleasant and even painful when worn while pregnant.
  • If you have large or swollen breasts, a bra with thicker straps and a more supportive structure will be more comfortable for you in the long run. For the time being, strapless bras are out of the question.

Many expectant mothers may need at least one new bra during their pregnancy, although other women prefer to use bra extenders to fit their current bras. The majority of medical professionals advise getting fitted at the conclusion of the first or beginning of the second trimester, and then again at the end of the pregnancy.

The fact remains, though, that each person is unique, as are their bodies, which develop and evolve at varying speeds. Pregnancy bras can last as long as you need them to, or they can be swapped out every two months or even less frequently.

When it comes to pregnant bras, you may decide to forego them all together and instead opt for bigger, more comfortable sizes in soft materials. When it comes to wearing maternity bras, there’s no right way or wrong way.

If you want to get the most out of your maternity bras and save money, here are some recommendations to help you get the most out of them and make sure that your investment pays off for you.

How to Find (and Use) a Maternity Bra Size Calculator

To begin, you must know your own height and weight. If you can’t obtain a professional fitting for your maternity bra, you can still utilize a maternity bra size calculator to find the best fit.

Pregnancy bra size calculators from two of the best maternity and nursing bra makers are available here and here. Obviously, these aren’t infallible methods, and you’ll still need a tape measure, but if you can’t afford a professional fitting, they will do.

Here’s What You Should Look For in a Maternity Bra

Whether or not your bra is designated as “maternity” or “nursing,” the following features should be included:

  • Look for molded foam cups with replaceable pads instead of underwires. Push-up bras are a thing of the past.
  • Look for a material that is comfortable and breathable, and avoid the lace trim.
  • For the most part, racerbacks and t-backs have thicker straps and are therefore more supportive.
  • Make sure you obtain three levels of clasps and at least five or six distinct settings for clasp closures when you buy a bra.
  • Look for fabrics that are elastic enough to support the growth of 1-2 cups.

When should you stop wearing underwire bras when pregnant?

The first three months of pregnancy and the first 4-6 weeks after childbirth are the best times to avoid wearing underwire bras. This is due to the fact that your breasts will not fit precisely inside the cup if they alter frequently (even by the hour).

Do I Need Maternity Sports Bras and Sleep Bras?

It’s also possible to find a variety of bras. Sleeping wearing a bra may not be something you’re used to, but it may become necessary as your breasts expand. A sleep bra, on the other hand, is distinct from an ordinary bra in that it focuses on comfort rather than providing definition and shape.

Sleep bras, on the other hand, can be improved by purchasing nursing sleep bras. Aside from the fact that they are just as comfortable as maternity or non-maternity sleeping bras, they can be used for breastfeeding as well!

You may not have given much thought to a sports bra before, but as your breasts grow, you’ll need more support. Make sure you get a high-impact nursing sports bra, as this bra will work for both breastfeeding and wearing normally. Aside from the clasps, no one will be able to tell what’s inside.

How Do You Determine Your Nursing Bra Size While You’re Pregnant?

The question of how to estimate your nursing bra size while pregnant may come up soon enough if you’re trying to select when to buy a maternity bra. Most experts recommend getting a nursing bra fitted at eight months, even though it’s difficult to determine your exact nursing size until you’re there. Make sure that the nursing bra you purchase is able to grow with you when your breast milk begins to flow.

The distinction between a maternity bra and a nursing bra is discussed in a related post.

It is common for your breasts to increase in size by around a week after giving delivery. They’ll go down again once your milk has arrived and your body has had a chance to control its production. So why is it so vital to use elastic, supporting material?

So, we often propose utilizing nursing bras as maternity bras, as they can be used again at some point, depending on the length of time you breastfeed.

How Many Maternity Bras Do I Need?

It is recommended to have three bras for breastfeeding: one for storing, one for washing, and one to use. For everyday wear, we recommend having at least two maternity bras so that one can be worn while the other is being washed.

A good rule of thumb is that you should have 2-3 for everyday use, one or two for sleeping, and one or two maternity sports bras, depending on how active you are during your pregnancy. The Cake Maternity Mousse Contour Bra is my go-to everyday maternity bra, and it also works beautifully as a nursing bra. For everyday wear, the Mousse bra from Cake Maternity is perfect because it is wire-free for optimal comfort while yet providing the definition most women desire.

The Truth About Underwire

If you’re a nurse, you may hear that wearing an underwire can reduce your milk supply or trigger mastitis. Underwire isn’t always your buddy when you’re pregnant, but that’s not always the case either.

The most important argument is that today’s bras are so comfortable that there’s no reason to compromise. As a result, there’s a growing movement away from high, padded bras and toward more natural breast shapes. Is it possible to get a nursing bra with an underwire for pregnant women? Yes! Are they legal to use if you choose? Yes! Don’t be scared to experiment with non-underwire choices.

Comfortable cotton nursing bra, maternity bra, breastfeeding bra.34BC-42BC - Áo ngực cho con bú | ThờiTrangNữ.vn

When Do I Need to Buy Maternity Clothes?

Buying a pregnancy bra and maternity clothing at the same time is a very personal decision. Ultimately, the decision rests with you. Maternity garments, such as maternity bras, are quite comfortable, and it’s difficult to stop using them once you start using them.

The cost of maternity clothing may be pretty significant, especially if you have to replace your casual, sporty, and work attire, so finding ways to extend your current wardrobe can be extremely advantageous if you’re looking for ways to save money.

How much bigger will my breasts get during pregnancy?

Your breasts will typically be one to two bra cup sizes larger than they were before you were pregnant, though every woman is different. As your ribcage grows to accommodate your growing baby, your band size is likely to expand as well.