Nursing Bra Basics
By Joanne Davidson You’ve had your baby shower, the clothes have been washed in perfume-free detergent, folded and put away. The diapers are ready and stacked next to a stylish and safe changing table. A stack of good books sits ready, next to your new and stain-resistant glider. A lot of time and attention has been given to many details of the early life of your child.
Spend some time attending to another detail: finding the right
nursing bra for you. What works varies widely among moms. Consider your lifestyle, breast size and intended duration of breastfeeding.
Wait and see
Actually having a sucking, squirming and cuddly infant in your arms postpartum will determine what you require and need in a nursing bra. Since finding a good nursing bra for your situation can be an investment of money, you might want to wait to see what will work for you after you’ve had the baby.
In terms of style, consider the style that has worked for you in the past. If you like a sports bra, a fussy bra will frustrate you. If you like pretty and lacy bras, one that is very feminine might serve to brighten your day.
In terms of function, I found the simpler, the better. An underwire bra predisposed me to plugged ducts, and natural fibers felt better against my skin. Finding pretty bras took a second priority in the early months to finding a roomy one that provided comfortable support. A roomy but supportive cup works best for comfort and prevention of plugged ducts.
The less to fuss with during, before and after feedings, the better. Towards that end, I found hooks to be easiest in a traditional nursing bra. Overall, however, I preferred a sports bra type that I could simply move the cup aside for feedings.
I discovered that you get what you pay for in terms of nursing bras. I found the best fit, usefulness and service with bra manufacturers that focused only on pregnant and breastfeeding women. My favorites were Decent Exposures http://www.decentexposures.com and Bravado http://www.bravadodesigns.com.
©Joanne Davidson
Joanne Davidson breastfed her three children, is a homeschooler and instructor of Positive and Grace-Based Discipline. Visit her site at PositiveDiscipline ResourceCenter.com.
