Learn the difference in design between maternity and nursing bras
Are you out to find the right maternity bras and nursing bras for yourself? Did it ever cross your mind whether you need both or if just a maternity bra will do? Another thing! How can you tell the difference between the two?
When choosing the best maternity or nursing bra, there are all kinds of factors you should consider that have to do with the bra band, the center seam, and whether or not you should opt for an underwire. Last but not least, your cup size to help you determine which bra is right for you.
Discover what is important regarding the various parts of the bra:
- Bra Band - Your bra band needs to sit tight and make you feel secure and confident about yourself. The lower edge should sit just below your shoulder blades. If it keeps pulling up, then the strap is too tight. You would have to go up a band size.
- Center Seam - This part of the bra should be flat against your breastbone or sternum. It should not rest on top or cover any part of your breast. If the gap is too big, then you need a bigger cup size.
- Cups - You will know you need a smaller cup size should the cups gap or pucker not fill out with your breasts. Should they overflow towards the center, push out near the sides or on top, then you need a larger size.
Did you know that breast changes take place before women know they’re pregnant? Once the pre-pregnancy bra feels too tight or downright uncomfortable, do not delay sourcing a maternity bra that fits well.
You may find you have to take this step at the early stages of your pregnancy or later on. Regardless, get yourself a comfortable fitting maternity bra that provides proper support while allowing room for growth.
Later on, when your baby has arrived, you may have to switch to a nursing bra. Many of you may have wondered what the difference is between maternity vs nursing bras? Afford us the opportunity to enlighten you.
What's the Difference Between Maternity and Nursing Bras?
You can say that a maternity bra is a super version of your standard bra. However, it has been designed to support growing breasts when pregnant. Some features you will come across include softer cotton lining, wider straps, extra eyes and hooks on the band section, and more. These bras do not sport under-wire cups.
Nursing and maternity bras are different in that the nursing bra has panels or clasps that allow the baby easy access to the mother’s nipples for breastfeeding.
Many ladies like to have both at hand. They often purchase a larger size of a pre-pregnancy bra or will buy maternity bras in the beginning stages, then switch over to nursing bras once they reach the third trimester.
If you opt for nursing bras during your pregnancy, ensure there is enough room for your breasts to grow. Besides, they often increase in size after your baby arrives.
What to Look Out for When Buying a Bra
When buying your bra, take your time and find one that allows your expanding rib cage and burgeoning breasts enough room to grow.
The bra should fit right with the clasp at its tightest setting. This is something you need to pay attention to for your own good once you decide to buy a nursing bra before your baby is due as you would easily grow another cup size the moment your breast milk develops soon after birth.
Which Type of Bra is Best During Pregnancy?
Choose a bra that features strong straps and seams. Flimsy ones won’t do the trick.
We spoke about underwire bras earlier on. These are okay as long as they do not pinch your breasts and fit right. But most women prefer soft cups rather than underwire bras.
Look for softer type bras that are made from cotton and do not have seams that go near the nipple area. This is the recommended way to prevent chafing.
The basic rule is to opt for another bra when the one you’re trying on in the dressing room causes discomfort.
It does not stop here. Depending on how quickly your breasts grow, you may have to visit the shops a couple of times during the duration of your pregnancy. There are plenty of mistakes you can make with buying a nursing bra, so be sure to do your research. While you could wear a regular bra while nursing, these can be uncomfortable and difficult to feed the baby while wearing.
Resources — Leading Lady, Babycenter
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