Guide to Buying Maternity and Nursing Bras

Like the rest of your body, your breasts, too, are changing. As they grow bigger, you’ll want to go shopping and get yourself some new maternity bras. 

When is it time for a new bra?

When you see indentations where the band and straps were, your breasts are spilling out of your bra cups or your bra feels too snug, it is time for a new one. For most mums-to-be, this happens at about 16 weeks.

The 36th week of pregnancy is a good time to purchase a nursing bra. 

Maternity bras vs normal bras

Maternity bras are designed and constructed to offer a higher level of support to a pregnant or nursing woman. Rather than compromise by buying a normal bra in a larger size, it’s best to get a maternity bra for better support. 

Nursing bras offer the same support as a maternity bra but have openings to feed your baby through.

Choosing a Bra:

1. Support. Look for wide straps, sides and under-bust band.

2. Comfort. Cotton bras will let your skin breathe. Soft cups are preferred especially for nursing bras as underwired styles can dig into breast tissue and lead to clogged ducts. Also it’s not advisable to sleep in an underwired bra.

3. Adjustability. A minimum of four hook positions will allow your bra to grow with you. Make sure your new maternity bra fits you on the tightest hook when you buy it. That way you can loosen it or buy bra extenders as your breasts continue growing. You can also buy a pullover bra with a flexible band. 

(For nursing bras: Unlike your maternity bra, your nursing bra should fit you on the loosest hook when you buy it, because your rib cage size will begin to decrease after you give birth.)

4. Coverage. It’s best to have as much fabric as possible over your breasts. This will help you stay comfortable if your breasts become more sensitive.