Choosing a Nursing Bra
If you ask most women, they will tell you that their least favorite item to shop for is a bra. We’ve all been there — standing amidst a sea of straps looking for something that will be supportive, comfortable, and flattering. Then, with our selections in the dressing room, we find ourselves wishing that we could dash out to get a different size without being arrested for indecent exposure. Now that you have decided to breastfeed, you’re wondering if yet another frustrating dimension will be added. There should be an easier way.
There is. By following these steps, you can make shopping for your nursing bra simple. We suggest that you select your nursing bras during the final weeks of pregnancy, or, preferably, right after your baby is born. Because of the many breast changes, fitting too early in pregnancy may result in a poor postpartum fit. We recommend having at least three nursing bras (one to wear, one in the laundry and one clean, ready to put on). If you need a new bra late in you pregnancy, select one that allows for extra cup room and purchase as few as possible. Insist on a comfortable fit. Features to look for are breathable fabrics and straps that don’t dig into your shoulder.
Choosing the Correct Bra Size:
It’s best to have someone who is properly trained fit you, but if that isn’t possible, you can do it yourself. Measure around yourself, just under your arms, with a measuring tape. Keep the tape snug, but not tight. If the number is uneven, round it up. This is your band size. Then, with a good fitting, unpadded bra on, measure around the fullest part of your bust. The difference in the band and bust size determines your cup size.
If the difference is:
- up to one inch, the cup size is A
- up to 2 inches, the cup size is B
- up to 3 inches, the cup size is C , etc.
Example: Your underarm (band) measurement is 39 inches
- Add one inch (uneven number)
- Your band size is 40
- Your bust measurement is 43 inches
- Subtract your band size (43” - 40” = 3”)
- Your bra size is 40 C
When trying on your nursing bra, bend over and gently shake your breasts into the cups. Use disposable breast pads to be sure that you protect the bra and yourself from others’ leaking milk. Adjust the shoulder straps while they are slipped off your shoulder. There should be no breast tissue beyond the side seam, or “spilling” out of the top of your bra. Remember that most women lose weight in their upper bodies after delivery, so make sure you have the ability to tighten the band in the future. The band should be snug, but should not “ride up” on your back. If your milk has not yet come in (this usually happens when the baby is 3 -5 days old), make sure you have extra cup room, or have hooks that will adjust the cups.
Raise your arms, bend over and move about to make sure that your bra fits comfortably. It’s important that you are able to manipulate the cup openings with one hand (the other one will be holding your baby!).
To care for your bra, wash in warm water and line dry. Do not use a dryer, bleach or an iron.
Whenever possible, ask for help from a knowledgeable consultant or lactation specialist in selecting the right nursing bra. A proper fitting bra will help prevent breastfeeding problems, such as plugged ducts and breast infections. The right bra will make breastfeeding easier and more discreet. Happy nursing!