How to choose the right nursing underwear. How to choose a nursing bra before childbirth How to choose a nursing bra in advance

An incorrectly fitted bra can cause serious harm. Such underwear impedes the flow and movement of milk through the ducts, which impairs lactation and injures the nipples and breasts. It provokes the appearance of lumps and nodules in the mammary glands, forms stagnation of milk and causes lactostasis. Without timely intervention, it develops into mastopathy and other complex diseases.

To prevent such problems, it is important to choose the right bra model. The product should properly support the breasts and not put pressure on the mammary glands. It is important that the material is safe, does not scratch, injure or rub the skin, and does not cause an allergic reaction. In this article we will learn how to choose a nursing bra.

Do breastfeeding women need a bra?

There is an opinion that a nursing mother definitely needs a bra so that the breasts do not become deformed or stretched when filled with milk. In addition, some argue that you should wear such underwear all the time, even at home. But that's not true.

The condition and shape of the breasts and skin elasticity are affected by heredity, age, weight changes, childbirth and lactation, nutrition and lifestyle, but not the presence of a bra. Therefore, if a nursing mother is comfortable without a bra, then it is not necessary to wear underwear constantly during lactation.

It’s another matter if a woman feels discomfort during breastfeeding. After all, during this period the breasts become larger and heavier due to milk. In this case, support and fixation are needed. Then it is important to choose the right type, shape and size of the product.

Today they make special ones with detachable cups, special tabs, various types of fasteners, and so on. Among the variety of models you can easily find the right one. Let's look at the different types of nursing bras.

Types of nursing bra

• With clasp between cups. Such models fasten easily and quickly, and are adjustable to the desired size. But they open their breasts completely during feeding;
• With buttons. The clasp is located above the cup, which allows you to unfasten and lower the cup to freely feed the baby. In this case, it is better to choose a model where the cup frees the breast completely, and not just the nipple, otherwise the flow of milk will be delayed;
• Elastic products are made from materials that stretch easily. You need to pull the cup back and the breast will be free. Due to their elasticity, such models are suitable for every size;
• With zippers located near each cup. Such products can be easily and safely unfastened and stretched. But the zipper will stand out under tight clothing;
• Tops are ideal for breastfeeding women, as they do not have seams or fasteners, which eliminates the risk of breast injury. The base and cups are made of elastic fabric, which allows you to adjust and change the size. A comfortably tailored back increases wearing comfort, and wide straps provide enhanced chest support;
• Sleepwear is a top made of soft, pleasant and natural materials. This nursing bra is positioned crosswise at the front. It is light, comfortable and hardly noticeable, but is not suitable for very large breasts.

Nursing bra size: how to choose

If you plan to buy underwear before giving birth, take measurements in the last month of pregnancy, when the breasts are as close as possible to the shape and volume of breastfeeding. However, it is better to take measurements after the baby is born.

To determine what bra size a nursing mother needs, first measure the circumference under the bust. To determine your cup size, measure your bust circumference at the highest points. Then from the resulting figure we subtract the circumference under the bust, using the difference to determine the cup and bust size.

For example, with an underbust girth of 90 and a chest girth of 105 centimeters, we get the following:
Cup size = 105-90 = 15

Using the table, we determine the B cup and the second breast size. Then we determine the size of the bra itself. Using the parameters from the example, you need to select a laundry size of 90B.

Rules for choosing underwear for a nursing mother

• For breastfeeding, choose underwear made from natural, hypoallergenic, breathable and smooth fabric, without seams and preferably without pits. Cotton allows you to keep your nipple at a comfortable temperature, dry and cool;
• It is better not to wear models with ruffles, lace and underwires in the first weeks after childbirth, when lactation is just getting better and the breasts are most vulnerable;
• If you prefer synthetic products, choose models with cotton inserts inside. In this case, the inserts must completely cover the nipple, and not just the areola;
• Bras made of synthetics, with wires, lace, etc. can only be worn during the day and for a short time. When choosing a model with underwires, the latter should be made of plastic. Metal can tear the material and accidentally injure the chest;
• The bodice should be comfortable and convenient. It should not rub the nipples and skin, press and squeeze the mammary glands, fit too tightly to the body and be too tight;
• Large busts need soft support and wide straps. For a small one, choose strong and narrow straps. By the way, in this case a strapless model, such as a bandeau, is suitable. In any case, the straps should be comfortable, not cut into the skin, not overtighten and not leave marks;
• Choose products with an elastic finishing tape at the bottom, which ensures stretch to the desired size and a comfortable fit to the body;
• Be sure to try on the item and leave it on for a few minutes. Pay attention to the skin; there should be no traces of the straps left after the laundry;
• One or two fingers should fit between your bra and your back. Raise your hands up, the bra should not rise up;
• The cup should be easy to unfasten with one hand, and the breast should not fall out during feeding.

How to wear a nursing bra correctly

It is acceptable to wear a nursing bra all day, but it is better to take off your underwear at night. By the way, experts do not recommend wearing the same bra two days in a row. During this time, it does not have time to restore the shape of the bowl and elasticity. Do not forget about hygiene and wash your bra regularly, as it is in constant and close contact with the skin. For washing, choose soft and hypoallergenic products.

Do not wear stretched or deformed underwear. Even with careful and regular care, proper and careful wear, this item of clothing will not last longer than eight to ten months. As practice shows, after this it stretches and wears out, does not provide adequate support, and loses its original appearance and physical properties.

During wearing, the bra stretches by five to ten centimeters. Then you need to move from the outermost fastener to the inner ones. Therefore, when you buy a new model, start with the outer rivet, then move to the middle one and only then to the tight one. On average, this type of clothing lasts about six months.

Inserts for linen during breastfeeding

Special breast pads or pads will help maintain hygiene. They absorb excess milk, especially when the latter is actively secreted, which is typical for the first months of lactation. Inserts protect linens and clothes from getting wet.

Absorbent pads protect breasts and nipples from rubbing underwear, skin irritation and inflammation. They prevent infections, lactostasis and mastitis. Today you can find disposable and reusable liners.

Reusable models are economical, but the product must be washed and ironed after each use. Disposable absorbent breast pads are lighter and easier to use as they do not need to be washed. Used inserts are simply thrown away.

A bra is an important part of a woman’s wardrobe, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding, when everything that concerns the mother and her baby should be safe, comfortable and functional.

During the breastfeeding period, breasts increase many times over, but this does not mean that you need to wear a huge bra from your grandmother’s wardrobe.

How is a nursing bra different from a regular bra?

What should the ideal nursing bra be like so that it is comfortable for everyday wear and sleep, and, in addition, is not afraid of your reflection in the mirror?

A nursing bra differs from a regular bra in its enhanced breast support with wide straps and drop-shaped cups, the elasticity of the fabric that can stretch when milk comes in, and special clasps that allow you to quickly remove the breast to feed your baby. In addition to these basic functions, they are equipped with several rows of hooks that allow you to adjust the chest circumference depending on the chest volume that changes every day. All nursing bras are made from soft fabrics that carefully support the bottom of the breast and maintain its shape.

Buying tip: when choosing a nursing bra, do not forget to buy disposable inserts to absorb excess milk. If you sleep a little longer than usual at night, and your baby sleeps with you, you won't have to change clothes or clothes because the milk will leak onto your clothes and bedding. In addition, in public places you will always look decent, without stains from breast milk, in case you forget to feed your baby on time.

Types of nursing bras

Nursing underwear is available in several versions, depending on the method of access to the breast with milk.

• With hook or button closure between cups. The model is convenient because you can quickly unfasten the bra or adjust the girth under the bust, choosing from several possible clasp positions. Disadvantages: The breasts open completely during feeding, which some may find uncomfortable.
• With zippers. This bra has zippers on the sides and bottom, so one of the cups can be unfastened and you can safely feed the baby. Among the disadvantages: you can no longer wear tight clothes on top of such a bra, since the zipper seams will stand out.
• With snap fasteners on the straps. With this option, the button can be easily unfastened with one hand and the cup of the bra can be lowered, which is very convenient. Various models provide for the opening of one breast completely. And in some there is only one nipple.
• Elastic bras They make it possible to simply pull and lower the cup down or to the side to give breast to the baby, due to the fact that they are sewn from especially elastic stretch fabric. This model is especially convenient for large quantities of milk, as the fabric stretches easily and adapts to any breast size.
• Bras for sleep. Made in the form of elastic strips of fabric with cups crossing on the chest. The fabric from which they are made is very light and weightless, so you can sleep in them at night with great comfort.
• Top bra. Made in the form of an elastic dense top without fasteners or seams. To feed, simply pull the desired breast out of the elastic side panel. They are also very comfortable to sleep in, as they do not squeeze anywhere or dig into your back. This model is much cheaper compared to other bras, and is especially suitable for the first month after discharge from the hospital, when milk flow is still irregular and has not completely established itself.

How to determine the correct size

It's better not to rush into buying a bra. It is best to buy literally a month before the expected date of birth - at 37-38 weeks. At this time, the breasts become the same size as they will be after childbirth. Although this is also a preliminary forecast, it is therefore better to buy only one, maximum two bras, and purchase others after childbirth.

To determine the size, you need to measure the size under the chest with a centimeter, and then take another girth - at the highest points of the chest. After this, subtract the smaller number from the larger number. The resulting figure should be found in the size table. The first number indicates the circumference under the bust, and the quotient indicates the fullness of the cup. For example: the circumference under the bust is 85 cm, and the circumference of the bust itself: 103 cm. Subtract: 103 – 85 = 18.

Size table:

In our example, 18 cm corresponds to size 4. Therefore, the bra size itself will be 85 D. If you are in doubt about the size, always check with the seller or consultant. And of course, to ensure the bra fits perfectly, the best option is to try it on.

How to choose a comfortable and beautiful nursing bra

In any case, when you come to the store, it is best to try on your underwear. However, in order to buy a quality item that is safe for you and your child, you need to pay attention to a number of details:

1. The bra should be without wires. Any pressure or pinching of the milk ducts threatens congestion and chest pain.
2. The tape supporting the bottom of the chest should be elastic, but not compressive.
3. The breasts should fit perfectly into the cup, not protruding from the sides or top. It is best if there is a little space left on top of the cup, allowing for the milk to arrive.
4. A finger should fit between the bra and your back. Be sure to check this when trying it on.
5. Never buy a bra without trying it on. Money can simply be thrown away.
6. When trying on, be sure to raise your arms up. The bra should not jump up.
7. Fabrics should be natural, with minimal addition of synthetics. This is especially true for the inside of the cups: it is desirable that they are made of highly absorbent fabric.
8. If you feel pressure from one or another seam, consider purchasing a seamless model, such as an elasticated bra in the form of a top.

Advice! Buy two bras of different models before giving birth. Take one size larger than yours. You will be able to evaluate how correctly you choose the model and size in the first weeks after the birth of the baby and the establishment of breastfeeding.

Popular bra brands

• Milavitsa- one of the most famous brands of underwear for women from Belarus. All bras are made of safe cotton fabrics in white, beige and black colors. In addition, on her websites Milovica always offers women convenient size tables for her models. For breastfeeding mothers, Milovica has bras made from pure cotton and cotton with added lycra and elastane.
• Fest is another popular Russian lingerie manufacturer that offers classic nursing bras in various colors. The fabric used for sewing is soft elastic knitwear consisting of cotton and elastane.

Nursing bra: Reviews from moms

Valeria Snitko 21 years old, Moscow. Before giving birth, I was size 1, and after that even size 3 was too small. I bought myself two bras: one made of microfiber with synthetics, the other Fest made of cotton. So, all this synthetic material stretches immediately after washing. In general, the nursing bra is very comfortable. The breasts do not sag, they are raised all the time.

Irina Leutskaya 25 years old, Nizhny Novgorod. I did not use a special nursing bra. I used regular ones, just lowered the strap and cup and that was it. Somehow I didn’t bother, I didn’t have time for it, and I was lying in storage all the time, and my husband, like my mother, didn’t understand what kind of special bra it was.

Angelina Vashchina 29 years old, Perm. I categorically did not use such bras. I bought one, but it’s so inconvenient, a small circle opens and that’s it. I didn't like it, and I couldn't find any other models. When I was breastfeeding, I wore regular bras.

Victoria Zarenskaya 22 years old, Novosibirsk. I really liked the special nursing bras. The only difficulty: it is difficult to guess the size. I bought three at random. All in different colors and with a button on top. I actually had to throw one away - it turned out to be small. I advise everyone to take one or two sizes larger at once. You can't go wrong.

Anna Drozheva 24 years old, Kazan. I bought myself a bra at the pharmacy, literally before giving birth, they didn’t let me try it on. I took it at random and measured the dimensions with a centimeter at home. I didn’t wear it for long – the first two weeks after discharge. Then there was much more milk. The breasts have grown even larger. I gave my husband my bra, he bought two sizes larger: white and black. One had a zipper on the side, and the other had a stud at the top. I nursed for six months, even slept in a bra. The breasts did not sag at all after feeding and without stretch marks, all thanks to the bra!

Elena Andreeva 26 years old, Moscow. I had a lot of milk, even fill it up. I also used nursing bras with front clasps and elastic fabric. You unfasten a couple of buttons, pull out the breast, and the other is in the cup and in place. Plus, I also used inserts, they simply saved me. I bought beautiful bras, with ruffles on the straps, and it was a pity to wash them often. I washed it about once every four to five days. But in general it’s a convenient thing, I don’t know how I would live without them.

A nursing bra is a must-have item in a new mother’s lingerie arsenal. This type of underwear provides maximum comfort during feeding, it performs the supporting function of the breast, prevents the appearance of stretch marks, and relieves pain during breastfeeding. In addition, such bras look very stylish, they embody femininity and beauty.

A distinctive feature of the nursing top is the presence of additional fasteners. Such fasteners (buttons or zippers) can be located between the cups or at the top of the cup. There are options without fasteners at all, made of durable and elastic materials that stretch easily. Such bras are distinguished by the absence of a rigid frame and bones, and are suitable for those with small breasts.

A huge selection of high-quality and inexpensive nursing bras is presented in the KIABI online store. These are stylish sconces, made in neutral colors and decorated with lace trim. In the catalog you can choose either a single item or a set of several bustiers. In addition to underwear for pregnancy and nursing, the catalog contains many models for every day. These are comfortable

During my first pregnancy, I made a big mistake - I didn’t buy myself a nursing bra before giving birth. As a result, I had to send my husband to the store, he chose it himself and naturally it didn’t suit me. I suffered so much, and in the end breastfeeding didn’t work out. Apparently, the lack of a nursing bra also indirectly affected my attitude towards guards.

I prepared thoroughly for my second birth. And I thought about underwear after childbirth in advance. On the advice of my sister, I decided to go to the Mothercare store (Butyrskaya Street) and look at the bra there.

I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of bra sets. One set contains 2-3 pieces of different colors (white + black, with a pattern + without a pattern, etc.).

I chose just white + white with a pattern. Price 1000 rubles for 2 pieces. Composition: 100% cotton, just what you need after childbirth and for breastfeeding. At first, I even slept in them, since milk flows were very frequent at night and I had to use postpartum pads, but they don’t attach without a bra. Therefore, cotton is important so that it is not hot.

The Mothercare bra is quite thick, not thin. Because of this, it was sometimes hot at night, and his bottom was wet with sweat. But in the morning I just changed it to clean and dry and that’s it.

Two pieces were barely enough. It's better to buy three.

But then I stopped wearing a bra at night, when the night hot flashes stopped and mature lactation began.

They are comfortable to wear. Feeding in them is as easy as shelling pears, as I can unfasten and fasten the strap with one hand. The clasp is comfortable and large.

The hooks on the back are quite comfortable. In general, the stripe on the back is wide and if the chest is large, then this helps to “wear” it proudly)))

Now let’s talk about how to choose and buy the right size in advance before giving birth. Before pregnancy and childbirth, I wore size 75A (kindergarten, in short). I bought size 80B from Mothercare and I was not disappointed! I hit the mark considering the increase in breast size after childbirth and during lactation.

The store allowed me to try on several sizes and choose the one that suited me. I went shopping closer to the birth (at 36-37 weeks), just when the breasts themselves had already enlarged, but there was no flow of milk yet. I chose bras that were too big for me in terms of cup volume; you need to choose them taking into account the fact that your breasts will proudly protrude forward, as if inflated. But I took the girth so that it was just right, but did not press or dangle around me.

The quality is excellent - after 8 months of continuous wear, nothing has stretched, no pilling or stains have appeared. Everything still looks decent.

Why 4 points and not 5 - the bottom of the bra is still a little thick, and not sexy)))

Anna Turetskaya

Reading time: 8 minutes

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If you are a nursing mother and are wondering whether you need a nursing bra, and also how to accurately choose a bra for feeding your baby, then here you will find the answers to these questions.

6 types of breastfeeding bras, features of nursing bras

There are several types of bras, offering a variety of ways to breastfeed your little one.

Nursing bra with clasp between cups

Advantages: Unfastens quickly and conveniently, allows you to adjust the size under the bust due to 3-4 possible clasp positions.

Flaws: Some breastfeeding mothers may find this breastfeeding bra uncomfortable and immodest, because... it opens the breast completely during feeding.

Nursing bra with zippers

Nursing bra with zippers located near each cup.

Advantages: Easy and safe to unfasten and fasten.

Flaws: If you want to wear tight clothes, the bra zipper will stand out on your clothes.

Bra with a strap closure in the form of a small button located above the cup

It allows you to freely lower the cup and feed the baby. Buy a nursing bra that releases the entire breast, not just the nipple.

Advantages: ease of use.

Flaws: If the fabric of the bra puts pressure on the lower part of the breast when the breast is not fully released, it can cause a delay in milk flow.

Elastic bras for nursing women

Elastic bras, made from easily stretchable materials, make it possible to simply pull back the cup, thereby exposing the breasts.

Advantages: The elastic cup allows you to change the size.

Flaws: Some may find it a not-so-modest option.

Sleeping bras - for breastfeeding women

Sleeping bras are specially made from lightweight materials, making them lightweight and almost imperceptible. Night bras for nursing mothers have a criss-cross configuration at the front.

Disadvantage is that it is not suitable for mothers with very large breasts.

Top bra for breastfeeding

Due to a number of positive effects, the most popular top is a nursing bra. It has no seams on the chest or fasteners, and has a comfortably tailored back.

The base and cup are made of elastic material, which allows you to easily change the size, and the wide straps provide additional support for the bust.

When to buy a nursing bra and how to choose the size?

It is better to buy a nursing bra when the breasts are close in volume and shape to the breasts of a nursing woman, i.e. — in the last month of pregnancy .

• First measure your circumference under your bust. This figure should be used as a guide when determining your bra size.
• Measure your chest circumference at the fullest points to determine your cup size.

Nursing bra sizes are classified from size 1 to size 5

Using an example, we will determine the required size. If your chest girth is 104, and your underbust girth is 88, then 104 – 88 = 16.
Let's look at the table:

• Difference in cm: 10 – 11 – fullness AA – corresponds to size zero;
• 12 - 13 - A - first size;
• 14-15 – B – second size;
• 16-17 – C – third size;
• 18-19 – D – fourth size;
• 20 – 21 – D D – size five.

The difference in subtraction corresponds to “C” - the third size. In this example, the required bra size is 90B.

Bra size chart for nursing mothers

When choosing a bra, pay attention to processing of seams inside the cup , on whether the breasts are comfortably supported. If you feel the slightest discomfort, especially in the seam area, then it is better not to buy this model, but consider the option of a bra model with a seamless cup.

Make a purchase of more than just one bra, but several , as your milk will leak out and therefore you will have to wash your bras frequently.

Buying a nursing bra - how to choose the right bra for a nursing mother?

Before choosing a nursing bra, check out our tips:

• Buy the best quality bra – this is not something where you need to save money.
• Choose cotton bras , which keep the nipple dry and cool.
• Fasteners should be comfortable , do not cause discomfort, do not cut into the body and are easy to unfasten and fasten.
• The straps should be wide to provide adequate support for your breasts.
• The fit to the body should be comfortable . This is usually achieved by using an elastic finishing band at the bottom of the bodice.
• There should be a maximum of two and a minimum of one finger between your bra and your back. . If there are more than two fingers or they don’t fit at all, don’t consider this option.
• If you put on a bra, raise your arms up, and it goes up your back – the bra doesn’t suit you.
• Remember - hard elements or bones in a bra for nursing mothers are not allowed, because their presence leads to stagnation of milk.
• Buy a bra only after trying it on. , because Each woman is individual, and all manufacturers cannot take into account the characteristics of the female breast. Look for your own option that suits you.

Benefits of a nursing bra

• Supports the breasts, preventing them from sagging and the formation of stretch marks;
• Convenience when feeding your baby - no need to remove your bra;
• You can leave it on even at night, thereby preventing stagnation of milk that occurs if the mother falls asleep in an uncomfortable position;
• Relieves pain during feeding and is a good prevention of mastitis.