As a new or expecting mom, your body undergoes numerous changes, and finding a nursing bra in the right size is essential for comfort, support, and ease during breastfeeding. With your breasts adjusting to pregnancy and lactation, wearing the correct bra can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and comfortable breastfeeding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to accurately measure, choose the perfect fit, and avoid common mistakes many new moms make when shopping for a nursing bra. Let’s dive in!
Why the Right Nursing Bra Size Matters
Wearing the right-sized nursing bra isn’t just about comfort—it plays a crucial role in your postpartum well-being and breastfeeding journey. A well-fitting nursing bra provides the support you need, particularly as your breast size changes throughout pregnancy and nursing.
Benefits of Wearing the Right Size
1. Improved Comfort: An ill-fitting bra can cause discomfort, irritation, and even pain, especially when worn for extended periods.
2. Breast Health: Wearing a bra that's too tight may lead to blocked milk ducts or mastitis, a painful inflammation of the breast tissue.
3. Posture Support: Properly sized bras offer additional support to your back and shoulders, reducing strain—especially important for moms with larger breasts.
Ultimately, finding a nursing bra in the right size ensures you’re comfortable and well-supported, so you can focus on what matters most—caring for your baby.
How to Measure Nursing Bra Size
If you're wondering how to know what size nursing bra to get, here’s a straightforward guide to help you measure for your perfect fit:
Watch this insightful video where Jessica Anderson (M.A., IBCLC, CLC), a breastfeeding expert, explains why choosing the right nursing bra is essential for comfort and support. Learn how to select a nursing bra that fits perfectly, with tips on band snugness, cup size, and strap adjustment. She also covers how the right nursing bra can support your pumping needs without causing discomfort or impeding milk supply.
Step 1: Measure Your Band Size
Using a soft measuring tape, measure around your rib cage, directly under your bust. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. Round this measurement to the nearest whole number. If your measurement is an odd number, round up to the next even number. This is your band size.
Step 2: Measure Your Cup Size
Next, measure around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipples. Keep the tape level around your body. Subtract your band measurement from this bust measurement to determine your cup size. Every inch difference typically corresponds to a cup size (e.g., a 1-inch difference is an A cup, 2 inches is a B cup, and so on).
When to Measure
The best time to measure is during the last month of your pregnancy or once your milk supply has regulated, typically about two weeks after giving birth. Keep in mind that your breasts may fluctuate in size as you breastfeed, so it’s a good idea to remeasure if you notice significant changes.
Features to Look for in a Nursing Bra
Once you have your measurements, it’s time to choose a nursing bra that offers the best support and features suited for your needs. Here’s what to look for:
Comfort & Fit
The most important aspect of any nursing bra is comfort. Ensure that the bra fits snugly but doesn’t pinch or feel too tight around your band or cup. The straps should be adjustable but not dig into your shoulders.
Support
As your breasts grow, especially during breastfeeding, additional support becomes critical. Look for bras with wide bands, strong straps, and good cup support, particularly if you have a larger bust.
Accessibility for Breastfeeding
One of the most important features in a nursing bra is easy accessibility for breastfeeding or pumping. Nursing bras with drop-down cups or stretchy materials make it easy to nurse your baby or use a breast pump. Many moms also prefer bras that are compatible with wearable breast pumps, allowing them to pump discreetly and hands-free while continuing with their day-to-day activities.
For example, the eufy Wearable Breast Pump S1 Pro is a fantastic option for moms looking for convenience and portability. It fits comfortably inside most nursing bras, including wireless and structured styles, providing a hands-free pumping experience. Its quiet motor, smart controls, and ergonomic design make it a top choice for moms who want to pump discreetly. even on the go.
H3: Fabric
Since your breasts will be more sensitive during pregnancy and breastfeeding, opt for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. These materials are gentle on the skin and reduce the risk of irritation.
Adjustability
A nursing bra with adjustable straps and a multi-hook back closure ensures it can adapt as your body changes. Many nursing bras come with extra rows of hooks to accommodate growth during pregnancy and postpartum.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing the Right Size
Even with accurate measurements and knowledge of bra features, many new moms make common mistakes when choosing a nursing bra. Here’s what to watch out for:
Shopping Too Soon
Purchasing a nursing bra too early in your pregnancy may result in a poor fit later on. Wait until the last month of pregnancy or after giving birth to ensure an accurate size.
Ignoring Postpartum Changes
Your breasts will continue to change after your baby is born. Re-measuring yourself as your milk supply regulates can help ensure continued comfort and support.
Skimping on Support
While comfort is key, don’t underestimate the importance of support—especially for larger bust sizes. Bras without sufficient support can lead to discomfort and even back pain.
Forgetting Other Styles
You’ll need different bras for different situations. For example, a seamless bra may be great for everyday use, but a sports nursing bra might be necessary for physical activities. Having multiple styles ensures that you’re prepared for every scenario.
Conclusion
Finding a nursing bra in the right size is an essential part of your breastfeeding journey. By learning how to measure nursing bra size and avoiding common mistakes like shopping too early or settling for discomfort, you can choose bras that fit your body’s changing needs. From seamless and underwire bras to sports and sleep nursing bras, there’s a style for every occasion. And don’t forget the added convenience of hands-free pumping with the eufy wearable breast pump, which pairs perfectly with your nursing bras for a seamless breastfeeding experience. Whether you're adjusting to your body’s changes or preparing for the next phase of breastfeeding, choosing the right bra will make all the difference in your comfort and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should breastfeeding bras be tight or loose?
Breastfeeding bras should fit snugly but not tightly. A tight bra can restrict milk flow and lead to discomfort or even blocked ducts. Meanwhile, a loose bra may not offer the support you need. Make sure the bra provides a comfortable, supportive fit without compressing your breast tissue.
How many bra sizes do you go up when breastfeeding?
Most women go up by 1-2 cup sizes during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s recommended to measure yourself in the later stages of pregnancy, around the eighth month, to get an accurate idea of your size. Remember, your breast size will likely fluctuate in the early stages of breastfeeding.
Can I wear a regular bra while nursing?
While it’s possible to wear a regular bra while nursing, a nursing bra is designed to offer better support and easier access for breastfeeding. Nursing bras feature drop-down cups and wider bands to make breastfeeding and pumping more convenient and comfortable.
