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If you are planning to breastfeed your infant a nursing bra is a must! Nursing bras come in several different types, colors and styles to ensure function, fashion and comfort for all body types. We have done the research on nursing bras to help you decide what is best for you.
Underwire nursing bras provide extra support. However, they are said to be the least comfortable and can cause mastitis if it puts
too much pressure on the breasts. Mastitis is simply inflammation of the breast. A nursing bra with no underwire is said to be a lot more comfortable, allowing you to sleep with it on. However, for larger busted women, it may not provide enough support.
Nursing bras come in many different styles. The most popular style is a nursing bra that has “flaps,” allowing you to detach the cup without having to take off the entire bra. The flaps are designed to allow quick access for discreet nursing. The fastening of the flaps is either on the shoulder strap or between the two cups. Other nursing bra styles include stretchy material; allowing you to slip the bra over your head or to the side. Nursing bras also come with zips that are found under each cup.
Nursing bras should fit comfortably. Nursing bras that are too tight block the flow of milk leading to plugged ducts and breast infections. The cups should be made of breathable fabric, which is usually 100% cotton. Otherwise moisture can get trapped around the nipples leading to bacterial growth. You should buy your nursing bras at the end of your pregnancy, around 37 weeks. This is ideal because your breasts will enlarge as your milk comes in after birth. Perhaps purchasing a nursing bra with a larger cup size will be a good idea to get you through the first few weeks of postpartum.
Finding the correct size of your nursing bra is easy. First take a measuring tape and measure the circumference around your rib cage. Make sure the tape is snug and wraps under your arms and just under your breasts. Add three inches to this measurement. If the number is an odd number, round it up to the next even number. This is your band size. Next, wrap the measuring tape around your back and the fullest part of your breast. Subtract the band measurement from the cup measurement to determine your cup size. Finally, purchase your nursing bra according to size.
Click here to find the nursing bra that is right for you:
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