Finding the Right Nursing Bra
Author: Heather Slee
As if finding a regular bra you love isn't hard enough, now you have to think about nursing bras. Luckily, nowadays there are plenty of options to choose from. The downside of this is, there are PLENTY of options to choose from. Here are a few tips you can use when you go shopping to narrow down the choices.
First and foremost-get fitted! Experts suggest you get fitted no earlier than four weeks pre-delivery. This is when your breasts will be around "nursing size." You can get fitted at many major department store, and nearly all maternity stores. You may even be able to get fitted from a lactation consultant at your hospital or clinic. Trust me on this one-do not just guess by going up a cup size or two. Poor fitting bras can lead to discomfort and possibly clogged milk ducts.
After you get fitted, you can decide on the opening you prefer. It's best to find something simple and easy; you don't want to be hassling with a complicated nursing bra when your baby is fussing or crying. There are a few different choices in openings: zippers, snaps, buttons, flaps, and stretchy fabric. Each option has sort of a different level of discreteness, so it's really about your preference. Perhaps get a zipper one for discrete feedings out and about, and maybe comfortable, stretchy fabric that you push entirely aside for home use. It's up to you and your comfort level.
Another aspect to consider is underwire versus no underwire. If you're a large-breasted woman, you may automatically answer, "Underwire, of course!" They are supportive and familiar. However, you should be mindful when going the underwire route. If you have an ill-fitting bra, an underwire may contribute to blocked milk ducts or mastitis, according to NursingBras.com. Be sure the underwire is flexible and that the bra fits properly, and don't sleep in underwire bras.
Lastly, try to avoid buying your bras online. You may love online shopping as much as me (although that's unlikely!), but these are garments you will really need to try on. Plan on purchasing three to five bras, as you'll probably be washing them more frequently than your regular bras. Oh, on that note-think twice before getting bras labeled "hand-wash only." That's the last thing you'll want to deal with when your newborn arrives. Good luck!
