A nursing bra is practical and necessary when breastfeeding. So far, so good – but what should you actually look for to ensure you buy the right one the first time?
If this is a question you've been pondering and still lack answers to, get comfortable and read on.
The purpose of this blog post is to provide you with answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the purchase of nursing bras.
1,2,3 GO!
FAQ:
What is a good nursing bra?
A good nursing bra supports without constricting anywhere! It is important that the milk can flow freely; otherwise, you risk developing mastitis or reducing your milk production.
What is the right size?
You will only know the exact right size once the milk has settled after birth. But a rule of thumb is that you will go one or two cup sizes up, while your band size will typically vary by five centimeters. It's better to go up in cup size than in band size.
When should you buy the first one?
Buy some nursing bras in the 7th-8th month, and you'll be covered for the first while after birth. You might want to buy them cheaply and then invest in more when your milk has settled – that way, you'll be sure to have some that fit perfectly for the rest of the breastfeeding period.
How many bras do you need?
You need at least 3 nursing bras. You wear the first one, the second is for washing, and the third is ready in the closet or hanging on the line. If you buy more, you'll have some to switch between, and you won't have to wash as often (hooray!).
Should it be underwired or non-wired?
Many experts recommend that pregnant women use non-wired nursing bras to avoid harming milk supply. If you still prefer an underwired bra (perhaps because you mistakenly believe it won't provide enough support), it must not be tight – and remember, you must not wear it at night!
Should I choose a nursing bra or a nursing top?
It’s a good idea to invest in both. Some prefer a nursing bra for daytime and a nursing top for nighttime. If you have a large bust, you’ll get the best support from a nursing bra with wide straps.
Which nursing pads are the right ones?
As a general rule, the need for nursing pads is greatest at the beginning of pregnancy and once you have given birth. They should keep the breasts warm and the skin dry, so they should cover the whole breast and not just the nipple. They come in many materials and can be purchased for single use or for washing. What works best is very individual, so it might be a good idea to experiment.
See the selection of nursing pads.
There you go. Now we take a breath again, and we hope that you have found answers to the questions you might have been pondering. If not, feel free to write to us at info@mammashop.dk, so we can expand the list.
As a last note, we've created a little checklist for you that you can pull out when you're on the hunt for nursing bras.
Happy bra hunting! Start it here.
Checklist:
- Is the cup flexible so the breast can grow without losing support?
- Is it possible to adjust the band and the length of the straps?
- Does it open and close easily?
- Is the nursing opening large?
- Can it be washed at 60 degrees?