How to Buy Breastfeeding Bras

A few good breastfeeding bras can be a tremendous help to nursing moms and their babies. To find ones that work for you, you'll need to consider fit, comfort, support, fabric, and quality.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. CHOOSE YOUR STYLE
   There are two main types of breastfeeding bras. Daytime styles feature a dual-layered cup. The outer cup is fastened to the bra strap with a hook or snap, and folds down for nursing. The inner cup is split for easy baby access, and helps to hold a nursing pad in place. Nighttime nursing bras, on the other hand, look more like lightweight sports bras. The fabric typically crosses in the front and is just pushed aside for breastfeeding.

2. 
    

   DON'T SHOP TOO EARLY
   Although manufacturers often market their breastfeeding bras as maternity bras, there is absolutely no need to wear one until after your baby is born. It's best to wait until the last month of your pregnancy to start shopping. This will ensure that your bra will fit well when you actually need it!

3. DETERMINE HOW MANY BRAS TO BUY
   Once your baby is born and eating around the clock, you'll need at least 4 breastfeeding bras: 2 (or more) for everyday use, 1 for sleeping, and 1 for dressy events. If you're shopping before your baby is born and the bras are not returnable, then buy only one or two to get you through the first couple of weeks. If the bras are returnable or exchangeable, then stock up!

4. SHOP AROUND
   Because quality breastfeeding bras can be expensive, it's a good idea to buy them from a store with a good return policy. Most department stores carry them, but they tend to be somewhat lower end. Maternity stores in larger cities, as well as online stores, carry the higher end brands. These include Bravado, Goddess, Anita, Wacoal, Medela, and Elle, to name just a few. You really do get what you pay for, so if you can afford a Bravado or two, go for it.

5. GET A GOOD FIT
   Most women will go up at about 1-2 band sizes and 1-2 cup sizes after their baby is born. This blessed period of natural enhancement will only last about 10-12 weeks, however, after which things gradually go back to their pre-pregnancy sizes. As a starting point for getting a good fit from your breastfeeding bra, measure first around the top of your rib cage, right underneath your breasts. Add 3 inches and round up to the nearest even number - this is your band size. Next measure around the fullest part of your breasts and subtract the band size. If this measurement is 1 inch, your cup size is A, 2 inches B, 3 inches C, etc. Remember, however, that these measurements are only guidelines. Depending upon the cut, style, and brand, you might need a size smaller or larger.

Tips & Warnings

• When trying on breastfeeding bras, use the widest setting on the back fasteners. That way, as you shrink to your pre-pregnancy size you can extend the wear by using the inner fasteners.
• Instead of buying a special nursing bra for sleeping, try a lightweight sports bra in one size larger than you'd use for athletic support.
• If you can afford it, splurge on an Elle Macpherson nursing bar or one by Goddess - you'll look and fee gorgeous!

Resources

• How to Succeed at Breastfeeding in Public
• How to Treat Diaper Rashes in Toddlers

[bfproblems]

on 10/10/2009 Great advice!