nursing bra

Nursing bra

A nursing bra is a specially designed bra that provides comfort and support while making it easier to breastfeed your baby. Nursing bras have convenient features like drop-down cups or front clasps that allow easy access to your breasts without having to remove the bra completely. They are typically made from soft, stretchy materials to accommodate the changing size and shape of your breasts during breastfeeding.

What to watch out for

When choosing and using a nursing bra, consider the following tips to ensure comfort and functionality.

  • Proper fit:ย Make sure the bra fits well and provides adequate support without being too tight. Your breasts may change in size throughout the day and during your breastfeeding journey, so choose a bra that can accommodate these fluctuations.
  • Ease of use:ย Look for nursing bras with easy-to-use clasps or drop-down cups that you can operate with one hand. This makes breastfeeding more convenient, especially when holding your baby.
  • Comfort:ย Choose a nursing bra made from breathable, soft materials to prevent irritation. Avoid bras with underwire if they cause discomfort or press on your milk ducts, especially for the first few months postpartum. We recommendย padded nursing brasย for added comfort.

Physical limitations or health circumstances

Certain physical conditions or health circumstances might affect your use of a nursing bra.

  • Engorgement:ย If your breasts become overly full and painful, ensure your nursing bra is not too tight, as this can worsen the discomfort. A bra with more stretch or a size larger may help during these times. Learn more aboutย managing engorgement.
  • Sensitive skin:ย If you have sensitive skin, choose nursing bras made from natural, hypoallergenic fabrics to reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Post-surgery:ย If you've had breast surgery, such as augmentation or reduction, you might need a nursing bra with extra support or specific features to ensure comfort and proper healing.

Other terms

Understanding related terms can help you better manage your breastfeeding experience.

  • Nursing pads:ย Absorbent pads worn inside your bra to soak up leaking breastmilk and keep your nipples dry.
  • Nursing pillow:ย A specially designed cushion that supports your baby and your arms during breastfeeding, promoting a proper latch and reducing strain.
  • Breast pump:ย A device used to extract milk from your breasts, available in manual and electric versions. Learn how to get aย breast pump for free with insurance.
  • Latch:ย The way your baby attaches to your breast. A proper latch is important for effective milk transfer and to prevent nipple pain or damage. Learn more aboutย improving latch.
Please give proper credit for the images used from this page. Image from nursing bra, part of The Lactation Collection's Visual Breastfeeding Glossary.
Square Image:
Wide Image:
Click on the image to copy the complete attribution HTML code. You can modify the wording as long as the links to the original pages are unchanged.