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| Dottie nursing bra from Freya |
It is extremely important to give your breasts good support during pregnancy, for it is then (and not during nursing) that most of the changes take place in the bust.
Forget about buying special "pregnancy bras". Many have terribly stretchy bands and cups that don't give any support. They come in a miserably small size range. And most are just ugly.
What you need is a good everyday bra that is supportive and comfortable.
Here is what to look for:
* Snug band:
Only a well-fitted bra band can give the breasts the support they need. Calculate your correct band size here. I explain all about why we need snug-fitting bands in this post.
If the bra that you are buying has a very stretchy band, you will need to go down a band size (don't forget to go up a cup size at the same time).
* Soft cups:
These give the best support. Padded and push-up cups distort the breast shape.
* Soft, comfortable fabric:
Most pregnant women have over-sensitive skin on the breasts, so every bit of lace or scratchy fabric can be really irritating ! Look for cotton or soft blends, or microfiber.
* Non stretchy fabrics:
Anything stretchy, such as those bras that “grow with you” will not give enough support. Cups should be soft, but not stretchy !
* Good support:
When you run down the stairs, and the breasts should stay almost motionless. When your run to catch the bus, you should not be holding on to your breasts for dear life, under the pretense of clutching your handbag to your chest.
To get good support, you must wear the right size. And the bra cup must be well built. Avoid cheap, bazaar or chain-store bras. Get something from a quality brand. Here are some recommendations.
* Underwires:
Underwired bras give much better support and shape than those without underwires. It IS safe to wear underwired bras during pregnancy and nursing, provided you are wearing the right bra size !
* Prettyness:
Being pregnant does not mean that you should wear tents in dirty beige. There are plenty of beautiful models out there !
When you can wear this:
Freya Dottie and Panache Sophie
Why wear this ?
