Let’s Chat…Nursing Bras

During your pregnancy and breastfeeding journey, your breasts will go through many changes. You may notice rapid growth, tenderness, nipple sensitivity, and a higher body temperature. Nursing bras are designed to support all these changes and facilitate breastfeeding. Choosing a comfortable style and fit that supports your needs is important, so let’s chat nursing bras!

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Types of nursing bras

Nursing bras support the rapid growth changes in your breasts during pregnancy and breastfeeding. There are three main types of bras based on fit.  Certain fits may be more beneficial during different stages of your journey. 

1. Multi-fit bras typically have multiple hooks or a band adjuster to accommodate breast growth and milk duct development in the first trimester. 
2. Cup-size fit bras are useful in trimesters 2 & 3 when your cup size is more stabilized. Check out this multipurpose Momcozy bra https://a.co/d/hMQJoPd
3. Seamless bras have thick wireless bands for the top of your ribcage to support the weight of your breasts during the fourth trimester when milk production increases. https://a.co/d/g6Zh5zO 

Styles

There are many ways you can utilize your nursing bras. You can provide comfort for your growing breasts during pregnancy. You may choose a bra that offers easy access to daily on-demand feedings. Some women want more support for comfortable sleep. If you pump frequently you would prefer a bra designed for hands-free pumping. Nursing bras are available for many different needs. Choose one that suits you! 

• Everyday bras should be supportive and comfortable while allowing easy access to the breast for feeding your little one. Typically these bras are full cup drop down, meaning you unhook at the top of your breast to reveal your entire breast for nursing.  https://a.co/d/gzzSkTh 
• Pumping bras should operate well as a daily bra with the additional bonus of hands-free pumping. https://a.co/d/1cmB3e8 
• Extra Support bras provide a thick band at the ribs and wider shoulder straps to distribute the weight of your growing breasts.  https://a.co/d/hMQJoPd 
• Sleeping bras are supportive but soft and breathable. These bras often use the pull-to-the-side fabric for easy nighttime nursing https://a.co/d/dJK3Ufx 
• Sports bras are designed to support nursing breasts during times of exercise https://a.co/d/0sDsRQC  

How to choose a nursing bra

Proper sizing means more comfortable nursing. If possible get sized by a professional in person. If this is not an option, take the time to use a measuring tape and follow the size instructions recommended by your bra brand. 

• Fit- Once you have determined the correct size bra you need, you will want to try the bra on. You can’t go wrong with an adjustable bra with multiple hooks that grow with you. 
• Comfort- Choose natural materials like cotton, hemp, flax, or jute which breathe and prevent overheating. 
• Easy access- Most nursing bras are full drop cups or pull-to-the-side fabric. This allows for quick exposure of the breast to feed your hungry baby. 
• Padding- Many women love that it feels more like a regular bra, the shape, the feel, and the leakage protection.
• Support- A bra with a thick band at the ribcage and wide adjustable straps will redistribute the weight of your breasts for comfort. 

There are so many nursing bras out there that it can be hard to decide which to choose. When shopping for your bra it is most important to get a proper fit. Different bras will be more useful during the various stages of your pregnancy or breastfeeding journey. Choose a bra that meets your style and needs.