Nursing bras, when fitted correctly, can be your friend. But the major problem with nursing bras is that breast size can change pretty dramatically making sizing quite difficult. The largest change in size often comes immediately after birth when the milk production starts. Nursing bras are often made with flaps of fabric over the cup which can be pulled down to access the breast at feeding time.
Even with the flap pulled down, the cup of the bra supports the breast. No-flap versions made of stretchable fabric which can pulled to the side at feeding time are also available. Becareful of underwire nursing bras. Though you will find them on the market, they can be uncomfortable if you are not used to them. In addition underwire nursing bras can constrict the breast and cause either blocked ducts or mastitis. Wearing an underwire nursing bras while sleeping is not recommended as it is associated with a high risk of mastitis (inflammation of the breast tissues).
A nursing bras (or feeding bra) is worn once your child arrives, and you have made the decision to breastfeed. Nursing bras cups are designed with a drop down cup design to expose your breast for nursing. However, most nursing bras are constructed with an inner sling so that your nipple may be exposed for breast feeding, but your breast is still supported. Nursing bras are usually seamless and give a natural shape to your breasts.
How many nursing bras will you need?
If you have at least three or four nursing bras you usually have a clean and dry bra available as you need it. Buy a few bras for daytime and at least two for night when you are looking for comfort and support is not such an issue.
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What are features to consider?
Look for a bra that opens easily, ideally with one hand. Often you will be opening the bra when holding the baby and you don’t wants to struggle to open it.
Buy a bra made of natural fabric which will breathe as the breasts can become moist during breast feeding. Support is also important as are soft, comfortable shoulder straps.
Elle Macpherson Nursing Bras
Elle Macpherson is a leader in the design of nursing bras. As a supermodel, mother and lingerie designer, Elle is an expert. She says she designed her own maternity bras when, as a nursing mom, she couldn't find a bra that was pretty, feminine and practical. Her Maternelle Maternity Bras was featured on Oprah's "World's Biggest Baby Shower". Many women love the Maternelle because it gives support similar to an underwire bras, but without the underwire. It is lined with cotton, but the lace-trimming gives it a pretty look. The 6 column, 2 row hook, eye back closure allows the bra to expand and contract.
Medela Nursing Bras
Medela specializes in nursing garments. They only make products for nursing moms, such as nursing bras and breast pumps. Mothers love their nursing bras because they are comfortable and practical and less expensive than maternity bras by Elle Macpherson.
Bravado! Nursing Bras
Bravado! A design was born as a home-based business in 1992, the brainchild of two young mothers. Today, Bravado! Bras are worn and loved by moms worldwide, including celebrity moms like Angelina Jolie, Sarah Jessica Parker, Jennifer Garner and Britney Spears.
Angelina Jolie used Lifestyle Microfiber Nursing Bras (in butterscotch and black) and Essential Nursing Bras Tanks.
Sarah Jessica Parker's favorite was the Original Nursing Bras.
Britiny Spears also wore them, but she is probably not a very good indication of what other moms should do!
Belly Bands
Bella and Baby Be Mine are making Belly Bands that are very popular. Belly bands help to make your clothes fit best when you are going through the different stages of pregnancy. Alot of women enjoy these as can be seen from the comments on the amazon website. |
