There are so many different stages of motherhood, from conceiving to the first trimester, postpartum and beyond! We do as much preparation as possible for the baby, but one often overlooked stage of motherhood is the transitioning stage from pre-pregnancy bras to nursing bras.
When should I start wearing a nursing bra?
We wish there were some set rules for you, however we are all unique and finding the right bra is no different. During your pregnancy you may find your breasts don't change at all, or that your breasts are changing from day one. You’ll know it’s time for you to buy a nursing bra when your pre-pregnancy bras start to feel uncomfortable around your ribcage and unsupportive for your breasts. Having the right support is key to making your motherhood journey all the more comfortable, as unlike normal bras, nursing bras are designed to grow and change with your body, all the way from pregnancy to breastfeeding and beyond. Take a look below at why a nursing bra can support you through every stage of your pregnancy, from the 1st week to the last.
Nursing ClipsThe biggest difference between a normal bra and a nursing bra is the addition of nursing clips. Nursing clips allow you to drop down the cup to allow your new baby to breastfeed. Hotmilk bras offer 2 different types of nursing clips. The first style is a plastic nursing clip that can be opened and closed with one hand to allow for simple fuss-free feeding. The second type of clip is a magnetic clip. A magnetic clip can be opened by twisting the clip and is easily snapped back together with the magnetic pull. The benefit of a magnetic nursing clip is that they are very discreet and come in stylish gold and black colours to add a little style to your everyday outfit!
Back AdjustorsA standard bra will come with 3 hook and eye adjustors; however, our nursing bras all feature 6 hook and eyes to allow you to extend the band during pregnancy as baby grows and then you can tighten the band again once baby is born.
Flexwire Bras
A flexiwire bra is different from a standard underwire bra. A flexiwire is just that… a flexible underwire that moves and adjust with your changing breast shape. The benefit of a flexiwire is they don’t put the same amount of pressure on your breast as a standard underwire bra, however they still offer an incredible amount of lift and support. These are a perfect option for someone with a bigger bust seeking extra support as well as comfort. View our flexiwire bras.
Wirefree Bras
A wirefree bra has no underwire support. The support comes from the way the bra is designed and where the seams are placed. A wirefree bra is especially recommended during the first few weeks of breastfeeding and when your breasts are feeling tender or sensitive. View our wirefree bras.
Contoured Cup
A contoured cup (t-shirt) bra is slightly padded and is generally constructed with thicker fabric or foam. Contoured cups offer amazing breast shape and are great for hiding nipples. View our contoured nursing bras.
Soft Cup
A soft cup bra has no padding or contour in the cup. The cup is designed so that the seams are concealed internally to avoid irritation and offer the structure and support you need during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Multifit
A multifit bra will stretch across a multitude of cup sizes. Sometimes this could be 2 known as dual cup sizing and other times it could stretch up to 9 sizes depending on the style! Multifit styles are perfect for pregnancy and breastfeeding as they will stretch and grow with your ever-changing body. View our multifit styles
A-Frame
An A-frame feeding construction provides a triangle frame around the top of the breast when the cup is dropped down for feeding. Some mothers prefer this as it covers more of the breast for discreet feeding and offers greater support when the cup is dropped down.
Side Sling
Side sling feeding construction feature a ‘sling’ of fabric on the outer side of the cup that supports the breast during feeding. Side-sling nursing bras reveal more of the breast (the top half) and allow greater skin-on-skin contact between mum and bub during breastfeeding.
When you make the decision to stop breastfeeding, your breasts will quite often be a little different to how they were before pregnancy. Your breasts may or may not return to their pre-breastfeeding size or shape, but each and every mother is different. Some women's breasts stay large, others shrink, some sag or some stay full! No matter your breast shape, it’s important to take care of your breasts post breastfeeding.
We’ve designed our nursing bras to be able to be worn post-breastfeeding long into motherhood, as there is enough to think about as a new mum to factor in changing your bra! The discreet nursing clips, stylish designs, 6 hook and eye back adjuster and flexible cup sizes all make them easy to be worn after birth.
If you’re unsure on your current size or what shape will suit you and your breasts, take a look at our Fit Quiz here and find your perfect nursing bra.
