Nursing bras are not the same as conventional bras; nursing bras can be adjusted more to allow for changes in breast size and shape throughout the day, they provide more support, they allow for the discrete insertion of breast pads, the cup linings are designed to avoid irritating already sore nipples, and most of all, they 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.
This may sound obvious but the most import thing in choosing a good nursing bra is making sure it fits properly. Also, the bra should allow for the insertion of nursing 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.
Make sure the nursing bra is easy to use. Again, a well made nursing bra will allow easy opening using just one hand. Make sure you buy a maternity bra with plastic clips or hooks and eyes - both are easy to open with one hand, though hook and eye can be trickier that plastic clips to redo.
The nursing bra should give you ample 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 made from cotton - although many synthetic materials nowadays do let your skin breath. It's important that your skin breaths as sweat combined with breast milk can cause rashes and mastitis.
Many large-breasted women use under-wire bras. However, when breastfeeding, it is best to avoid under-wire nursing bras especially in the early postpartum weeks. Under-wire maternity bras can put pressure on your milk glands, which in turn, can lead to less milk being produced or plugged glands. Many modern nursing bras give ample support without using under-wiring. If you do want to buy an under-wire nursing bra, then do make sure 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, just wear a light nursing bra that opens by simply stretching and lifting up off your breast. This type of nursing bra is 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.
Finally, if you can afford it, buy a really pretty, feminine nursing bra for those special occasions. These days you can now buy a really sexy nursing bra, although they don't usually come cheap.
Buying the best nursing bra for you is not about buying an expensive or cheap nursing bra: it's about buying a nursing bra that is comfortable, fits perfectly, functions well and is pleasing to wear.
