Stocking up on well fitting maternity bras is really important for a really comfortable pregnancy.
When you are pregnant your breasts change in so many ways. In fact, many women notice breast tenderness as their first pregnancy symptom before a test could even confirm the pregnancy. For many women, their breasts become fuller, larger, rounder or change shape entirely.
To add to this, it is completely normal for the nipples and areola to grow darker in colour as the breasts prepare themselves for feeding the baby (apparently the darker colour is nature’s way of helping the baby to find the source easier. How amazing is that?).
Stocking up on well fitting maternity bras is really important for a really comfortable pregnancy. Wearing a bra that is too small or that has an awkward underwire can cause a lot of discomfort. It is a good idea to get measured and pick up some good quality maternity bras to maximise your comfort levels during the pregnancy.
The frustrating thing is that despite stocking up on maternity bras you will still more than likely have to pick up some nursing bras. Many maternity bras have the removable straps and double up as nursing bras but after you have given birth your breasts undergo more changes.
Many women go up or down a couple of sizes when their baby comes along. When breastfeeding, your breasts are likely to significantly increase in size.
Having a good selection of comfortable and effective nursing bras is really important. It may affect your breastfeeding journey profoundly as they could become an uncomfortable obstacle rather than offering the support that you require.
Here are some recommendations for good quality nursing bras that are also good value
1. H&M
These nursing bras are highly rated. For €22,99 you will get a two pack of nursing bras in either grey/pink or dark grey/black. They are available from size 34B through to 38E and are made from organic cotton. They have adjustable shoulder straps and ample space to insert a breast pad. Available here.
2. Boots
Did you know that Boots do nursing bras? This is major news to us. The Medela bra is €18.74, It is a wire and seam free nursing bra option that comes in Small, medium and large. The stretch fabric promises to adjust to your changing shape. It kind of looks the business. Available here.
3. Mothercare
Mothercare now offer a bra fitting service which I personally availed of in my last pregnancy. They have a variety of styles, shapes and price points when it comes to nursing bras but we’ve heard good things about the “sleep bra” which retails at €19.50 and is recommended for relaxing and sleeping. It has adjustable hook fastenings and drop down cups for easy feeding. Available here.
4. Penneys
The nursing bras in Penneys are really popular – but that’s the problem. If you are lucky enough to spot these in your local Penneys pick them up while you can as they fly off the shelves. A two pack is about €12! Available here.
5. ASOS
Who knew, but ASOS maternity is one of the most popular outlets for online maternity fashion. They have a variety of options such as soft cup, seam-free, sleep bras, wired, non-wired and lacy to name just a few. Worth a flutter? Available here.
Tracey is a happy mammy to four-year-old Billy. She is a breastfeeder, gentle parent and has recently lost five stone so healthy family eating is her passion! You can find her at www.loveofliving.ie.