How to choose Maternity Bras

caroline — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:49:47 +0000

Choosing maternity bras is very exciting, especially when you are choosing your first one. It is yet another confirmation that you are soon going to be a mummy. Some women gain a couple of cup sizes during pregnancy but for some, the gain may be four or five cup sizes by the time the milk comes in and some women say that pregnancy gave them the best breasts of their lives. You will also have to think about a change in the under-bust size as your baby grows, making your bump move upwards nearer to your ribs. The best maternity bras offer support for your growing breasts, increased comfort and little touches that help make you feel feminine and sexy like animal prints, lace inserts and satin.

You need to ensure a good, comfortable fit when choosing a maternity bra. It must fit you as the size you are now, even if you think that your boobs will continue to grow. Getting one to ‘grow into’ is not a good idea as it will not support you correctly. A bra that fits properly will help your breasts to feel less heavy and achy. It will also support their growing weight and prevent your back from aching. You may find that your breasts grow so quickly that you get some stretch marks, so proper support is essential.

Your breasts may start to be uncomfortable at night. This is alleviated by buying special sleep bras. Some of the sleep bras available are rather soft, rather like a crop top but with soft cups, and do not offer much support. If your boobs are large, look for a sleep bra that is a little more substantial. Do not make do with a normal day time bra as it will not be comfortable to sleep in, especially if it has wires under the cups as they will dig in. You may also find that putting a cushion under your breasts at night is helpful to prevent their weight dragging down if you are starting to get uncomfortable in bed.

Your bra should fit nicely when fastened at the tightest hook. This means that you will have a little leeway when your bump gets bigger. You can then let out the hooks and you will also get more space as the elastic relaxes with wear.

Many pregnant women suffer from sensitive skin. If that is a problem for you, it may be a good idea to avoid lace next to the skin or synthetic fabrics like nylon when choosing maternity lingerie. You will also have to do what our larger-breasted sisters do and buy bras with wide, comfortable straps to prevent them from digging into your shoulders and leaving sore red lines as your boobs get heavier.

You may consider economising by buying nursing bras early on in pregnancy instead of maternity bras. This doesn’t work for a lot of people. This is because you may find that you will need separate ones later anyway, as your boobs may be a completely different size after the baby is born. The nursing bras that fitted you before the birth may well be two or three cup sizes too small.

Maternity Lingerie » Lingerie advice

How to choose Maternity Bras