Pregnancy is such an exciting time as the mother-to-be plans the nursery, buys baby clothes, and prepares to give birth. If she is going to breastfeed, her plans should include getting a good nursing bra or two during the last month before she gives birth. It is important that she be fitted properly by a professional who knows how to correctly fit a nursing bra. She may not want to get more than 2 nursing bras before the baby comes because her breasts will change in size after her milk comes in.
Finding the Perfect Fit
Use the following pointers to help find the perfect fit.
- Measure snugly across the top of the chest right under the armpits.
- Measure under the breasts at the top of the ribcage.
- Take the larger of these two measurements. If it is an odd number, round it up to an even number. This will be the band size.
- Measure across the fullest part of the breast.
- Subtract the band size measurement from the breast measurement. Each inch is one cup size.
For example, if the measurement across the top of the chest is 39, and the measurement under the breasts is 38, the larger number would be used. Since 39 is an odd number, it would be rounded up to 40. If the measurement across the fullest part of the breast is 44, that means there is a 4 inch difference between the band size and the cup size. Since each inch is one cup size, this mother would need a size 40 D bra.
It is important to note, however, that different styles of bras fit differently. Every woman's breasts are unique, and the perfect bra for one mother may be very uncomfortable for another. That's why it is important to have an experienced bra fitter make sure that the fit looks good and allows for growth as the milk comes in.
Finding the Right Bra Style
Some experts recommend that nursing mothers avoid underwire altogether. The reason for this recommendation is that underwire pressing on the milk glands can cause plugged ducts. If a mother does choose an underwire style, she needs to make sure that the wire is not touching any breast tissue anywhere on her breast. This will reduce the risk of plugged ducts. A mother who is prone to plugged ducts should avoid underwire altogether.
It is important to purchase a quality bra that will provide the support and comfort a new mother needs. However, it is also important that the bra be easy to unhook with one hand. Many companies make nursing bras. Some are lingerie companies who offer nursing bras as an addition to their undergarment collection. Others are companies that focus exclusively on products for pregnant and nursing women. A couple of bra makers in the latter category include the following:
- Bravado: They have the original nursing bra which is similar in style to a sports bra. They also have a wonderful new Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra which has no underwire, offers slight padding, and provides nice support. The Bravado Supreme is designed for larger breasted women to provide support without underwires. Finally the Lifestyle Microfiber bra is a great bra for smaller breasted women, although it does come in larger sizes as well.
- Medela: They have softcup and underwire styles as well as a classic non-underwire style for larger breasted women. They also have a very comfortable sleep bra and a light support bra.
Although the bras sold by these companies may be a bit more expensive, they are worth every penny. The last thing a nursing mom needs is a poorly made, ill fitting nursing bra!
 |
