Buying bras can be challenging at times. Buying maternity and nursing bras that fit you properly given all the changes that are happening with your body is even more challenging. We’re here to help!

Why should you wear a maternity/nursing bra?

In your first trimester, you may notice fuller, tender breasts, thanks to those surging hormones. By the second trimester, breasts continue to grow because of increased blood flow and developing milk ducts.

In the third trimester, your rib cage has expanded to accommodate your growing baby, so you need a bigger band size. Similarly, your cup size will increase by one or two sizes from your pre-pregnancy size.

What makes a maternity/nursing bra unique?

Maternity bras are specifically designed to deliver max comfort and support during a time when your body is constantly changing. Fit is critical. A well-engineered bra should never constrict or squeeze your breasts or rib cage. It is purposefully designed to be flexible, so there’s room when your milk comes in. 

Here are some helpful tips when you are shopping for a bra that can take you from maternity right into nursing:

• Stretchy material and a fuller cup. Both will help accommodate your changing breast size during your pregnancy
• Wire-free maternity bras are outstanding now. A lot of women don’t know that they can still feel supported without an underwire
• You should be able to run a finger underneath the band of the bra without it feeling loose
• Check that the band fits nicely across the back. Ensure it does not be ride up when you lift your arms
• For a daytime bra, look for up to six hooks and eyes at the back of the band, so you can adjust it as your rib cage expands. Or look for a bra that includes a bra extender.
• For the perfect lounge/sleep bra, look for a pull-on style with no back closure
• For nursing, look for full access. A cup that drops down completely gives you that essential skin-to-skin contact with your baby

Take a look at this video to see how to get the perfect nursing bra fit in under 60 seconds!

Body Silk Seamless – the best of both worlds

Bravado Body Silk Seamless Bra

Award winning Bravado Body Silk Seamless has been worn by moms for over 10 years, offering them comfort and support during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Body Silk Seamless features a wire-free design, four-way stretch and super-soft double-layer fabric. It’s a great choice for your second trimester as well as your go-to everyday nursing bra. The removable foam inserts give you the option of added shape and discretion. With this style, the transition from maternity bra to nursing is, well, seamless.

Bravado Designs created a proprietary, easy open and close “B” nursing clip that allows you to hold your baby in one hand and access your breast easily with the other. You don’t realize how necessary such a simple thing really is until you’re actually trying to do it. The full drop away bra cup design is perfect for maximum skin-to-skin contact with your little one.

Buttercup Nursing Bra

Bravado Buttercup Nursing Bra

The comfort of the Bravado Buttercup Nursing Bra makes it the perfect wear-all-day nursing bra for pregnant and nursing moms. Modern, smooth, pretty and feminine. A great transition bra into pregnancy.

The super soft and stretchy foam cups provide the discretion that moms crave. There’s full drop away bra cup design, and a complimentary bra extender. Convertible cross straps give you the flexibility to change up your style.

Another plus? Both bras come with a conversion kit so you can turn it into a regular bra when your breastfeeding time has ended.

Truly, a good maternity and nursing bra is worth the time and investment

Your entire maternity and nursing journey should be as smooth as possible. A comfortable bra can make a big difference to your overall physical comfort and well-being. And that same bra should make you feel confident, empowered and ready to take on everything motherhood has to offer. Enjoy!