If you are having problems finding a comfy nursing bra, or are looking for what you should buy before baby is born, then perhaps this guide will be of assistance. Please also note that a soft cupped ie non-underwired bra is only essential if it's not going to be fitted properly, or while the milk ducts are forming, ie during your first pregnancy and the first few weeks of your first breastfeeding experience. After this time, underwiring is perfectly acceptable, as long as it fits well and doesn't pinch or dig in to the breast tissue, and as well as the breast is well supported by it. We have a guide on how to CONVERT YOUR UNDERWIRED BRA INTO A FEEDING BRA which you may find helpful, too.

The following is taken from the NCT website:

The later in pregnancy your bra is bought, the more likely it is to fit satisfactorily once the milk comes in - from 36 weeks of pregnancy onwards is the best time.

Q. What size will my breasts become when my milk comes in?
A. Unfortunately no one can answer this precisely, some women's breasts increase more than others - therefore if the bra chosen is not right you need to have bought from a store or website that will exchange till you are happy with it - as long as it has only been tried on for fit and is 'as new' condition.

The correct fit in the cup is important - a useful tip is to be able to slide your flattened hand inside the top of the bra cup, remember your ribcage will decrease in size when the baby's head is engaged and again after your baby is born, therefore choose a bra with fastenings that can be tightened by one or two hooks after the birth.

A free fitting service is offered by over 150 NCT bra fitting volunteer agents throughout the UK, telephone 0870 112 1120 for the one nearest you. Alternatively you can order on the phone - give your measurements as detailed on their order form and one of the experienced staff will help you select a suitable size. A guaranteed next day service is available for a speedy delivery; If you TELEPHONE your order before 3pm. Tel: 0870 112 1120

See their Breastfeeding Bras here

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Taken from Bravissimo.com: (bras for bigger boobed ladies)

A helpful comparison
We think it's useful to compare buying a bra with buying a pair of shoes. Just as our feet vary in terms of size and shape, our busts differ in terms of the volume, shape and spacing of the breasts. You might know your shoe size but it is very unlikely that you would buy a pair of shoes without trying them on first. The same goes for bras - one style of bra may be perfect for one woman and totally wrong for another, even though they are the same size. Added to this, bras tend to vary in size according to manufacturer and style so you really need to try every bra on before you buy it.

This is Bravissimo's check for the perfect fitting bra :
The strap around your body should be firm but comfortable. When you stand side-on at a mirror, the strap that runs around your body should be horizontal and should not ride up at the back at all.

Trying-on tips
When you are trying a bra on, it's best to start off by fastening it on its loosest hook. This way you will be able to tighten the bra up if it starts to give in the back a bit when you've worn it a few times. Also, remember to adjust the shoulder straps to ensure that they are not too loose. When you've put on a bra, you may need to adjust your breasts to make sure that they are in the cups properly. It's a good idea to try a T-shirt or top over the bra that you are trying so that you can see the shape that style gives you underneath your clothes.

See their Breastfeeding Bras here

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Taken from Mothercare.com:

Nursing bras should be bought at the very end of your pregnancy, say two weeks before your expected delivery date. They are essential if you plan to breastfeed your baby.

You will have a choice of two styles:
Zip cup - These have a zip on each side to release each breast for feeding and a cotton rich zip shield to protect your breasts when opening.
Drop cup - These have a hook on each strap so that each breast can be offered when feeding
[Editor's note: there are at least two other types: a crossover bra and a front opening bra - perhasp Mothercare don't sell these.]

Both have:
Broad non-slip shoulder straps; A quick release nursing clip feature for feeding; Enclosed inner cup seams for added comfort and protection; The sides/ back of the bra contain cotton for comfort and support; A cotton lined undercup for extra comfort and support

Safety First
Normal fashion bras may not provide the support you need. It is recommended that underwired bras be avoided during pregnancy and [early] breast feeding, as they do not offer the right comfort and support, and can damage the formation of milk ducts if ill-fitted, which can lead to poor supply or even painful blocked ducts which can lead to mastitus.
Always wash bras on a low temperature (40 degrees C) to help them keep their shape.

See their Breastfeeding Bras here

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Taken from Ample Bosom.com:

If you DO want to measure to check your bra size, you need only take two measurements which are -

1. Underbust Measurement
Measure under your bust:
add 4ins. if the measurement obtained is an even number of inches
add 5ins. if the measurement obtained is an odd number of inches.

(For example, if your underbust measurement is 31ins., add 5ins. to obtain bra size 36, or, if your underbust measurement is 30ins. add 4ins. to obtain bra size 34.)

2. Overbust Measurement
Measure round the fullest part of your bust to determine Cup size.
If the bust measurement: is:
same as your bra size, your Cup size is A.
1in. more gives Cup size B
2in. more gives Cup size C
3in. more gives Cup size D
4in. more gives Cup size DD
5in. more gives Cup size E
and so on through F, FF and G

See their Breastfeeding Bras Here

Taken from Blooming Marvellous.com:

See their Breastfeeding Bras here

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