Why You Should Wear a Nursing Bra When Breastfeeding

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Author: Robin OBrien

Why You Should Wear a Nursing Bra When Breastfeeding

By Robin OBrien

There is no reason to wear a nursing bra, or any other type of bra for that matter. So, if you're happy not wearing one then go right ahead. But most women feel more comfortable wearing a bra and when breastfeeding, wearing the correct nursing is a definite must.

But why wear a nursing bra when breastfeeding? Won't a normal bra do instead? Well, the answer to that is, if you feel okay wearing a normal bra whilst breastfeeding, then it's probably okay too. However, a regular bra is not designed for breastfeeding whereas nursing bras are, and it makes sense to have a few nursing bras, whilst you're breastfeeding your baby.

Whatever nursing bra you buy, it is important that the bra fits correctly and is easy to use. A bra that doesn't fit correctly can block your milk ducts and cause milk production to decrease. Also, plugged milk ducts can become infected, leading to mastitis, so be sure that the nursing bra is right for you; all woman are different and therefore, what might be a good nursing bra for some, may not be the right nursing bra for others.

If possible, it is best to avoid under wire nursing bras, especially in the early postpartum weeks. However some women, especially those with plus size cups, prefer under wire nursing bras as they feel they get more support and avoid backache. If you do choose under wire, then it is vital that it fits correctly. The Medela Extended Size Classic bra comes in an under wire design and is a very good bra for the fuller figured woman. Playtex also make a good under wire nursing bra; the Fancy Me Underwire Lace Bra. Today, there are many excellent plus size nursing bras that give the required support without under wire. The Bravado Supreme Nursing bra is especially designed for the fuller-breasted woman; the bra also has a delicately embossed fabric, which is strong yet silky to the touch - clothing glides over it making breastfeeding very easy.

A good nursing bra makes breastfeeding easy. A nursing bra is designed to open at each cup. A good nursing bra should open at the cup but still provide plenty of support for the breast, making breastfeeding easier. Make sure you buy a nursing bra that you can open with one hand; you should also be able to close it one-handed as well. Most brands come with plastic clips - such as Medela and Elle Macpherson, or eye and hook - such the Goddess and Bravado maternity bras. Being able to open a nursing bra easily is important for discreet breastfeeding in public, so be sure to buy one that allows easy access and easy closing.

Another reason why you should use a nursing bra is because you'll almost certainly want to insert breast pads from time to time, especially when out and about and don't want to be seen with leaking breasts. All good makes of nursing bras come with cups especially designed to allow discrete insertion of breast pads.

When breastfeeding, the shape of a woman's breasts change over time; in fact the shape of the breasts change throughout the day. Nursing bras are very adjustable. Most good makes of nursing bras, such as Medela, Bravado, Playtex etc. are designed to allow adjustment at the strap and also at the cup.

As well as providing support and making breastfeeding easier, a nursing bra can also give a woman great confidence. As stated already, breastfeeding in public places is easier if the bra is easy to use. Today's nursing bras are also very stylish and make many women feel confident about the way the look and feel. If you can afford it, it is worth investing in one stylish nursing bra, such as the Elle Macpherson Maternelle Nursing Bra; just for those special occasions.

Finally, there is no such thing as the best nursing bra. Buy the bra that gives you the best support, is easy for you to use and gives you the greatest confidence.