Lingerie is an intimate item and having to change to more practical options during pregnancy and for breastfeeding is no fun, especially when it might seem that the only options available are not very sleek or sexy. But while experts agree that specialised bras are required during maternity and nursing, that no longer means having to sacrifice your sense of style.

Bra technician Cassie Sweden was recently appointed to sassy maternity and nursing lingerie brand HOTmilk. Having worked with Bendon and Fayreform for 18 years being responsible for the 'fit' of a bra as well as specialising in maternity and sports bras, Cassie is the ideal person to impart advice and tips on how to fit and buy a maternity bra.

Why is a bra so important during pregnancy and nursing?

During pregnancy and nursing there is usually a noticeable change in the breast area. The breasts may become fuller during pregnancy and more sensitive than usual during nursing. A lot more support is needed from your bra during this time as your breasts will become heavier, so it's important you are fitted by a trained professional.

What should people look for in a bra during pregnancy and nursing?
When making your purchase it is important to look for a maternity bra that provides excellent support and flexibility to allow for breast size fluctuation. An easy way to check this is to slide your hand into the upper cup section to assess if there is enough room for expansion and the insertion of breast pads. The cup should sit comfortably over the breast and provide good coverage.

If the breast is bulging over the top of the cup or at the underarms, this means the cup is too small and you need to try a larger cup size. If there is wrinkling in the cup this means the cup is too big and you need to try a smaller cup size. The cup linings should be cotton and the seams should not irritate the nipple area. The back should sit firmly but comfortably around the diaphragm.

If the bra is riding up at the back then the back is too big and you need to try a smaller band size. If the under bust or backs are overstretched and cutting in then the back is too small and you need to try a larger back size. The straps should rest comfortably on your shoulders. If they are digging in to your shoulders then they are too tight and you need to loosen them off and if the cup is sagging and your breasts are feeling unsupported then the straps are too long and need to be made shorter.

When buying your nursing bra the same rules apply but also make sure you can undo the maternity clip easily and preferably with one hand, this is important as you may not have both hands free at the time.

The A-frame should sit comfortably across the top of the breasts. Check that it doesn't cut in across the top of the cup. Check the inside opening is large enough to expand and doesn't cut in. Make sure there is enough overlap between the top of the cup and the A-frame cut out - if there is a gap this may mean the cup is too small and the breast is pushing out and putting strain on the cup.

Check the cup drops down far enough for feeding, ideally the cup should sit lower than the A-frame at the centre front so it drops down further. It will depend on the type of fabric in the top cup as to how much this area will give when dropping the cup down so make sure you are comfortable when doing this.

What is special about HOTmilk bras?

I think the HOTmilk Brand has been such a success globally because women are so excited about the fact they can wear a product that makes them feel fantastic and sexy, and at the same time get all the benefits of a comfortable and supportive bra.

HOTmilk bras have been carefully designed with high quality fabrics that offer the best support and coverage right up to a G cup.  And they are very reasonably priced!

What about underwires?
Underwires are a source of some controversy in the maternity bra business – many lactation consultants recommend against underwire bras for nursing mothers, as they can restrict the growth of the breast during pregnancy and can put pressure on the breast leading to blocked milk ducts. All HOTmilk maternity and nursing bras are wire-free.

How often should pregnant and nursing mothers get fitted for bras?

When you first notice an increase in the size of your bust which is generally around 3-4 months into your pregnancy, we strongly recommend you visit a professional bra fitter as they can ensure you choose the right bra for you.

Depending on the development of your bust size you should be fitted again at approximately 7 months, however if you feel your bra is restrictive in any way, you need to have your fitting checked straight away.

How often should pregnant and nursing mothers replace their bras?

There shouldn't be a need to replace your maternity bras often. Once you are fitted properly at 3-4 months your bra should take you right through pregnancy up to 7 months.

All HOTmilk bras have an extra set of adjusters at the back of the bra which allows for expansion as you grow. With nursing bras buy as many as you can afford, you should change your nursing bra every day so having spare bras on hand when one is in the wash is always a good idea.

How should women care for their bras particularly during nursing?

To get the best possible wear out of your bra always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the care label, this will ensure you wash and dry the bra correctly.

MATERNITY AND NURSING LINGERIE DO’S AND DON’T’S

DON’T SIMPLY BUY A BIGGER SIZE REGULAR BRA
The design and construction of fashion bras doesn't provide the level of support that maternity and nursing bras do. And when you start coming out of your bra having to adjust the straps 30 times a day, you will realize the importance of a specially-designed bra.

DO BUY MORE THAN ONE
Especially when you are breastfeeding, you will need two or three bras so you can launder them regularly.

DON’T GO JUST ONCE
Be prepared for at least a couple of visits to buy maternity and nursing lingerie as your breast size changes. Don’t be tempted to get fitted once and get another bra with room to grow, better to realise that you are in for two trips.

DO GET A PROFESSIONAL TO FIT YOU
Most traditional lingerie rules don't apply to maternity or nursing bras and you need a professional bra fitter to help you make an appropriate choice.