Becoming a mother is life changing. You have to get used to your new role in life, your ever changing body and now, you have to get used to your new wardrobe.
If you are breastfeeding, whether you’re a first time mom, or a more “seasoned” mom, there’s always an adjustment period.
Have you downloaded the FREE Pumping Session in Progress Downloadable Printable to hang on your door so others know you’re busy feeding or providing food for your little one?
You have to find out what positions work best for baby and you. Getting baby to latch on properly can be a challenge for some moms too.
If you’re struggling with breastfeeding or just want to educate yourself as much as you can about breastfeeding before baby makes their arrival, you should check out Milkology’s breastfeeding course that you can take from your home in 90 minutes!
I’m a firm believer in having the best nursing bras for your breastfeeding journey. If your breasts are well supported, it will help ease any possibility of pain during your breastfeeding experience too.
Especially during the first month of breastfeeding, while your milk is adjusting and you’re getting physically and mentally used to the breastfeeding game, a bra that gives some support will go a long way.
Just like with regular bras, you will find various types of nursing bras to choose from. If this is your first time breastfeeding, I’d recommend trying out a few and seeing what kind feels best and works best for you and your baby.
What makes a nursing bra different than a regular, everyday bra?
A nursing bra will have snaps or clips on the front of the shoulder strap. This part will unclip or unsnap to expose your breast and have easy access to your nipple for your baby.
Some nursing bras put the clasp or closure more towards the middle of your chest, by your sternum, instead of on the shoulder strap. See what works best for you.
You may find that you will want to buy some nursing clothing also. Certain clothing items are made slightly different to allow quick and easy access to your breasts so your baby can eat quickly and easily.
Different kinds of nursing bras
Like I mentioned before, there are various kinds of nursing bras. You may need to try a few out to see what works best for you and baby.
Some different types of nursing bras :
- Sports Bras
- Underwire Bras
- Wireless Bras
- Sleeping Bras
Depending on your activities or what you need to do throughout the day or night, one bra type may be more appropriate than the other.
Things to consider when picking out your nursing bra
- Comfort (do you feel comfortable or restricted? Is the bra made of a stretchy fabric? Does it feel okay on your skin / nipple area? )
- Ease-ability (is it easy to fasten and unfasten when you’re trying to quickly feed baby? Does it require both hands to fasten? If so, it’s probably not the best choice. Being a mom means you usually don’t have two hands to use anymore 😉 )
- Support ( I mentioned this before, but, it’s so important, especially once your milk comes in. Depending on the fullness of your breasts, you may require a bra with more support than you’re used to. A breast full with breastmilk is much heavier than a breast not feeding, so you will most likely require a different force of support than before. Finding the perfect amount of support can take a few trial and error bras. )
- Padding level (Until I started breastfeeding, I never wore anything that wasn’t padded. Nipple sensitivity changed while breastfeeding and padding wasn’t always ideal. Keep this in mind when trying out different ones and trying to find the best nursing bras. Make sure to get yourself some good nipple cream.)
- Coverage (For most women, you want a good cup size that will cover and hold your breast with support. I also wanted a good bra cup that would conceal the appearance of any nursing pads. I didn’t want to look like I had things stuffed in my bra, so finding the right bra design and fit was important in helping this.)
Best Nursing Bras to choose from
Sports Bras (personal favorite nursing bra style)
Underwire bras (You can get these in different padding and coverage levels other than what is shown)
Wireless bras (these come in various styles, fits, coverage and padding levels)
Padded Bras (you can get these in different styles and coverages other than what is shown)
Sleeping bras (Made in various styles. Depending on your leakage levels during the night, may vary on what works best for you. Don’t forget your nighttime nursing pads.)
Other than nursing bras, what do I need to easily breastfeed?
To make your breastfeeding journey easier, check out our breastfeeding checklist.
Make sure to complete your Ultimate Breastfeeding course in the comfort of your own pajamas before baby gets here.
Stock up on nipple cream and nursing pads for both day and night. They make disposable ones and washable pads.
Get your breastfeeding snacks and drinks ready. Staying hydrated is important for milk production.
Get your mindset ready to rock and roll through your breastfeeding adventure.
If you need any support through your breastfeeding journey, I have plenty of it. You can check out any of the related posts below!
