The New Moms' Nursing Bra Guide

Many first time moms are not sure when to purchase a nursing bra or why they even need one! Research shows that most women are not wearing the correct bra size although there are many quick and easy tips to help you select the correct one.

Why do I need a nursing bra?

* Most women experience an increase in their breast size during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* Although this size change will vary greatly from woman to woman, it is usually at least one band size and one cup size.
* For example a woman who wore a pre-pregnancy size of 36c could expect to need at least a 38d.
* A nursing mother needs to select the correct size to avoid mastitis and plugged milk ducts.
* Wearing the correct nursing bra size will help prevent neck and shoulder aches and pains.


When should I purchase a nursing bra?

* It is usually best to wait until a few weeks before delivery to purchase your nursing bra.
* Remember that your ribcage will continue to expand to accommodate your growing baby.
* Choose a bra with several hooks on the band which you can use once your ribcage shrinks back after the baby is born.
* Your cup size will also continue to increase as your body prepares to produce breast milk.
* We do not suggest waiting until after the baby is born to purchase your nursing bra.
* Approximately 3-5 days postpartum your milk will “come in” and temporarily increase you cup size due to engorgement.


How should my bra fit?

* Most maternity and department stores have trained staff to help you choose the correct bra size.
* All the breast tissue should fit inside the cup. You should not see any part of your breast spilling out of the cup or side seams.
* Your bra should fit snuggly.
* The band should not rise up at the back – of it does you may need a smaller band size.
* If you choose an underwire bra, the underwire should fit around the breast and not pinch or squash it.

Many lactation professionals suggest than nursing moms wear softcup bras as the underwire can cause a clogged duct by digging in to the breast tissue.

How can I measure myself?
You’ll achieve best results if you measure yourself while wearing an unpadded bra. First you’ll need to calculate your band size. To do this you’ll need to measure around your rib cage just below your breasts. If you’re measuring yourself be sure to check that the tape is level all the way around! Add 5 to this number and this will be your band size. For example if this measurement is 29” you’ll add 5 and your band size will be 34. If this number is an odd number you’ll generally need to round up to the next even number.

Next you’ll need to determine your bust/cup size. You’ll need to measure around your bust at the fullest point. Again, you’ll need to make sure that the tape is level all the way around. The difference between the band size and the bust/cup measurement is your cup size. Each one inch represents one cup size. For example is the band size is 36” and the cup measurement is 38” you would wear a 36b. If difference is 1 inch you'll wear an A cup If differnece is 2 inches you'll wear a B cup If difference is 3 inches you'll wear a C cup If difference is 4 inches you'll wear a D cup If difference is 5 inches you'll wear a DD cup If difference is 6 inches you'll wear a E cup If difference is 7 inches you'll wear a F cup

You’ll find that different bra styles may fit you slightly differently so you’ll want to try on a few to ensure you find the most comfortable one. If you’re still unsure of your size or just want a second opinion – most stores have trained professions who are happy to help you or contact your local lactation consultant.

By: Julie Zarchi
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Julie Zarchi is a wahm and owner of SuperMomz, an online boutique featuring Essentials for todays busy SuperMom. Julie spends much of her day helping expectant and nursing moms to measure themselves and order the correct size nursing bras, nursing tanks and pumping bras.

Plus Size Nursing Bras

During pregnancy your bra size can increase by up to four sizes (yes thats right!) and it is extremely important that you get the adequate support for your breasts. If like me you are a bit 'fuller' on top then you will know how hard it can be to find a retailer that stocks bras above a DD size, and it is even harder if you have a small back (e.g 32G). It is extremely important that you don't admit defeat and try to 'squeeze yourself in' as this can cause your breasts to become painfully swollen and engorged and potentially block your milk ducts leading to infections.

A plus size nursing bra will help you to feel well supported, comfortable and confident and these days they come in more than just black and white styles! There are a selection of online retailers that sell good looking plus size nursing bras . They have flaps that can be opened and refastened quickly and easily to make breastfeeding quick, easy and discreet. While you may not feel that nursing bras are necessary it is definitely advised that you avoid underwired bras as they can cause blockages in your milk ducts. If you have decided that you do want to wear a nursing bra then the next best thing to do is to get measured, you can do this at home but it is definitely better to go to a store where they have specially trained staff on hand. Do not feel like you have to buy any of their bras if you get measured as the service is free and once you know your size you can buy them much cheaper on the internet. In any case if it is a plus size nursing bra you are after then the store you visit probably won't stock your size anyway.


You should buy at least two nursing bras so you'll always have one on hand while the other one is in the wash. I'd also recommend you buy some breast pads as well for leaking breast milk (especially in the early days). You can buy both reusable and disposable breast pads - which ever you prefer.

So wherever you decide to buy your plus size nursing bra from you will definitely benefit from having one and your breastfeeding experience will be that much more enjoyable.

By: Sandrya Mclean
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
For more information on Plus Size Nursing Bras and where you can buy them online visit htt://www.plussizenursingbras.co.uk

Pregnancy - Maternity Bras And Nursing Bras

For successful breastfeeding you should buy the best nursing for you. Breastfeeding a baby – especially outside of the home - can be difficult at the best of times, so it's worth spending a little time and thought before you buy the nursing bra that is right for you.

Nursing bras are not the same as normal bras. When breastfeeding, the shape and size of the breast changes throughout the day and a good nursing bra can be easily adjusted to provide the support you need. Nursing bras also allow for the discrete insertion of breast pads, the cup linings are designed to avoid irritating already sore nipples and they allow for the flow of milk – blocked ducts can lead to mastitis. There’s no doubt that a correctly fitted, good quality nursing bra can make breastfeeding a whole lot easier. Here are some tips on choosing the best nursing bra for you.

The best time to buy a nursing bra is during mid to late pregnancy. By all means continue to wear pre-pregnancy bras until they are no longer comfortable, then go out and buy. Make sure the nursing bra you choose fits properly. This seems like obvious advice but most women don’t buy conventional bras that fit them correctly! Also, the nursing bra should allow for the insertion of breast pads. The nursing bra should be made of a stretchy material so that it moves with you. Finally, all good brands of nursing bras are very adjustable at both the strap and cup.

The nursing bra you buy should be easy to use. A good nursing bra will allow easy opening using just one hand – make sure you can close it one-handed. Most good quality maternity bras come with plastic clips or hooks and eyes - both are easy to open with one hand, though hook and eye can be trickier than plastic clips to redo.

The nursing bra should give you good support, especially if you need a plus size nursing bra. You can avoid back strain by getting a bra with good support.

Try to buy a nursing bra where the cup is lined with cotton - although many synthetic materials nowadays do let your skin breath. The material of the cup should let your skin breathe as sweat combined with breast milk can cause rashes and mastitis.

Many large-breasted women use under-wire bras as they like the support such bras provide. When breastfeeding it’s best to avoid under-wire nursing bras especially in the early postpartum weeks. Under-wire maternity bras can put pressure on milk glands and may lead to less milk production or blocked glands. Many modern nursing bras give ample support without using under-wiring. If you do want to buy an under-wire nursing bra, then it’s vital that it fits perfectly.

If you're planning on pumping often, you should consider buying a nursing bra that will work well with a hands free pumping system.

At nighttime you can wear a light nursing bra that that is made of stretchy material. These bras simply open by stretching and lifting the cup over your breast. Nighttime nursing bras are much more comfortable than day wear nursing bras.

Take care of your nursing bra. Following the manufacturer's instructions on how to wash and dry it.

Buy as many nursing bras as you can afford; you need to change your nursing bra every day.

Nursing bras can be sexy. There are now many pretty, stylish and sexy nursing bras on the market. Investing in one of these can be a real ‘pick-me-up’ especially on special occasions.

Buying the best nursing bra for you is not about buying an expensive or brand-name nursing bra: it's about buying a nursing bra that fits you perfectly, gives you the support you need, functions well and is pleasing to wear.

By: Franchis
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
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