Pregnancy can be a glorious time. Your new little one is on the way, and you are happy and excited to be welcoming an addition (or additions, as the case may be) to your family. It can also be stressful, especially with the changes in your body and mood.
Wearing the right bra is an important part of staying healthy and relaxed. A maternity bra is designed to help new mothers through the stages of pregnancy and post-birth and can also make things easier during breastfeeding time.
Here are eight tips on choosing maternity bras.
Comfort counts
Choosing the right maternity bra can make all the difference in your day-to-day during pregnancy, and the right one will provide comfort and support when you need it most.
All bras for maternity are not created equal, so it’s important to know what you want before shopping for one. Today, many types are on the market, so it’s important to know what type will work best for your needs. Comfort is key.
When is it time to switch from a regular bra to a maternity bra?
Your breasts will change shape and size over the pregnancy, so you should expect to purchase more than one bra. Your breasts will be different pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy, and while nursing. As soon as you start feeling uncomfortable with your regular bras, this is probably when you should go buy a maternity bra. Six weeks into pregnancy is typically around the time this begins to happen. If you find that your breasts are spilling out over the edges of the cups or if it’s feeling too tight, then it’s time for a new bra.
Choosing the right fit
It is important to be measured and fitted correctly. You may think you know your cup and band size, but it is a good idea to properly measure yourself at home or have the salesperson in the bra department do the measuring. The bra band should stay horizontal against your back and not slide down or ride up. Your cups should fit comfortably to hold your breasts without them spilling out, and there should be no gaping. Bra straps shouldn’t dig into or slip off your shoulders.
Wires may not be a good idea
When choosing a bra, it’s best to go with a non-wired version. Wires can dig into the breast tissue and harm milk ducts. However, there are some safe underwire options to prevent blocked milk ducts, where the wires are made of a gel-like material.
Material matters
It would help to choose a maternity bra made out of soft material but also provides good support. To avoid annoying chafing of your sensitive breasts, pick bras made from soft materials, such as cotton or a cotton/synthetic blend with no seams that might touch your nipples.
Fashionista mom-to-be
Maternity clothes, including bras, have come a long way as far as their style. Bras are now available in all colours and patterns, with chic detailing and lovely lace. You might not be feeling very sexy throughout your pregnancy, but you can still look fashionable if you choose.
A maternity bra vs. a nursing bra
Remember, there is a difference between a maternity and a nursing bra. A nursing bra will have a drop cup feature for each breast or be made of a stretchy material that pulls over to one side. A nursing bra is designed for quick, discreet access to the nipples for breastfeeding, while a maternity bra is not.
Budget-friendly ideas
A cost-efficient idea to avoid buying several bras is to purchase a bra extender. It lengthens the bra band by attaching to the back of the bra, which accommodates any rib cage expansion. Just make sure the cups are still comfortable, and if they are not, you will need to purchase a different size.
A maternity bra that will remain durable during and after your pregnancy is a good cost saver. Get one that contains more elastane material to stretch during pregnancy and snap back in good condition after the birth.
You can also purchase nursing bras to wear during the pregnancy, but make sure they provide enough growing room until your baby arrives.
Author’s Bio: Lisa Eclesworth is a notable and influential lifestyle writer. She is a mom of two and a successful homemaker. She loves to cook and create beautiful projects with her family. She writes informative and fun articles that her readers love and enjoy. You can directly connect with her on email – [email protected] or visit her website www.lisaeclesworth.com