You’ve baby-proofed the house, packed the hospital bag, even learned how to swaddle in under 30 seconds. Yet, no one really tells you about this one important thing.? The daily discomfort of a bra that just doesn’t fit anymore.
An ill-fitting bra isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a silent stressor that can turn even the simplest moments of new motherhood into a struggle. As your body changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding, your breasts can grow, shift, and fluctuate dramatically. That’s why a properly fitted nursing bra isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
In this blog, we’ll break down exactly when you should get measured, how to do it right (whether you’re at home or in-store), and why your bra size may change multiple times throughout your motherhood journey. Because finding the perfect fit isn’t just about comfort—it’s about supporting your body, your baby, and your sanity.
Why Nursing Bra Fit Matters (Especially Now)
Pregnancy and breastfeeding cause many changes in your body, especially in your breasts. One day they’re tender and swollen, the next they’re heavy, full, and leaking. On average, you can expect to go up one to three cup sizes, with frequent shifts in shape, size, and sensitivity as your milk supply adjusts. Still wearing your old bra from before pregnancy? It might not fit comfortably anymore.? That’s a recipe for discomfort and complications.
A well-fitted nursing bra isn’t just about looking put together—it’s a matter of physical health. Proper support helps distribute weight evenly, which reduces back and neck strain. It also lowers your risk of painful issues like blocked milk ducts and mastitis, which can be triggered by tight bands or underwires that press against milk-producing tissue.
But there’s another layer that often gets overlooked: emotional comfort. When your body is constantly changing, feeling secure in your clothes can be a grounding experience. A nursing bra that fits well reminds you that your body deserves care and attention, because supporting your baby starts with supporting yourself.
When to Get Fitted (Timing Is Everything)
Timing a bra fitting around your body’s changes can make all the difference in comfort and support. Knowing the right time to measure your bra size is important, and here’s why.
📆 Second/Third Trimester:
By your second trimester, breast growth usually kicks into high gear. ThisThis is the best time to get your first maternity bra properly fitted. Your rib cage starts expanding, your cup size increases, and regular bras often start feeling restrictive. A proper fit here helps you stay supported through the final months of pregnancy, when weight gain and hormonal shifts peak.
🍼 Postpartum Checkpoints:
Once your baby arrives, your body continues to evolve. Around two weeks postpartum, your milk supply begins to regulate, meaning your breasts settle into a more consistent size and fullness. That’s a great time for your first nursing bra fitting. Expect another shift three to four months after birth, when your hormone levels start to normalize and breastfeeding patterns stabilize.
🔄 Reassess Regularly:
This isn’t a one-and-done process. Your body will keep changing as you breastfeed, wean, and recover. Re-measure anytime your bras start feeling too tight, too loose, or just “off.” Think of bra fitting like baby clothes: what fits today probably won’t in a few weeks—and that’s perfectly normal.
How to Measure for a Nursing Bra (Step-by-Step Guide)
Before you start, grab a soft measuring tape and wear a comfortable, non-padded bra—nothing that adds volume or compresses your natural shape. You’ll want accuracy, not guesswork.
Step 1: Measure Your Band Size
- Place the measuring tape firmly around your ribcage, just below your breasts.
- Keep the tape straight and even with the ground while measuring.
- Round the number to the nearest whole inch.
- If it’s even, that’s your band size.
- If it’s odd, round up to the next even number.
- If it’s even, that’s your band size.
Example: 33″ becomes a 34 band size.
Step 2: Measure Your Bust Size
- Now, measure around the fullest part of your bust—typically across the nipples.
- Keep the tape loose enough to breathe but level and flat against your back.
- Round to the nearest whole inch.
Step 3: Calculate Your Cup Size
- Subtract your band size (Step 1) from your bust size (Step 2).
- Every inch difference equals a cup size:
| Difference (in inches) | Cup Size |
| 1 | A |
| 2 | B |
| 3 | C |
| 4 | D |
| 5 | DD/E |
Example: Bust 38″ – Band 34″ = 4″ → Cup size D
Your size: 34D
Step 4: Fit-Check Checklist
Once you try on the bra, look for these fit markers:
- ✅ Center panel lies flat against your sternum
- ✅ Straps are snug but not digging in
- ✅ Cups fully contain breast tissue—no gaping, no spillage
- ✅ Band sits level across your back (not riding up or digging in)
- ✅ No pain or pressure—even when your breasts are full
If something’s off, adjust the size or try a different style. A perfect fit isn’t just a number—it’s a feeling.
What to Look for When Choosing a Nursing Bra
Choosing a nursing bra isn’t just about size—it’s about smart design that adapts to your changing body and makes breastfeeding easier. Here’s what to look for:
Fit-Focused Features
- Adjustable Straps & Bands: Your breast size and rib cage can shift daily. Adjustable straps and multi-hook closures ensure a custom fit that evolves with you.
- Wireless Support: Underwire may look structured, but it can press into milk ducts and cause discomfort or even clogs. Opt for wireless styles that offer gentle lift without the pressure.
Fabric Matters
- Soft & Breathable: Look for cotton, modal, or bamboo blends—natural fibers that are kind to sensitive skin and help prevent irritation or rashes.
- Moisture-Wicking & Stretchy: These fabrics move with you and keep things dry, especially during overnight feeds or on-the-go nursing.
Functionality That Works
- Easy Nursing Access: One-handed clips, drop-down cups, or pull-aside panels let you feed your baby without a hassle—because struggling with a clasp mid-cry is no one’s idea of comfort.
- Room for Nursing Pads: Whether you leak a little or a lot, a good nursing bra should have space for inserts or built-in absorbency to keep you dry and confident.
In short: if it’s not flexible, breathable, and made with feeding in mind—it’s not the right bra.
Buying & Wearing Tips (for Real Life)
How Many Nursing Bras Do You Really Need?
Aim for at least three essential bras: one to wear, one to wash, and one as backup. If you’re an exclusive breastfeeder or pumping often, consider adding more to avoid laundry stress. Trust us—leaks, spit-up, and late-night changes happen faster than you’d think.
In-Store vs. Online Fitting
Getting fitted in a store is helpful, especially if you visit a maternity or lingerie shop with trained staff to guide you. They can assess your fit in real time and suggest styles for your body type.
Online fitting guides are great if you prefer privacy or need more options. Many top brands offer virtual consultations or fit quizzes to get you close to the perfect size without leaving your house.
Style Rotation: Day, Night & Active Life
- Day Bras: Prioritize support, accessibility, and comfort. These are your go-tos for errands, nursing sessions, and everything in between.
- Night Bras: Softer, stretchier, and clasp-free. Designed for sleep, dream feeds, and comfort when your breasts are at their fullest.
- Sports Bras: Light-impact maternity sports bras are ideal for gentle movement or postnatal workouts. Look for breathable fabric and easy nursing access.
Underwire: Friend or Foe?
Underwires can offer support, but they’re a gamble during breastfeeding. Poorly placed wires may dig into breast tissue, increasing the risk of clogged ducts or mastitis. Unless you’re wearing a bra specifically designed for nursing with flexible, wide-set wires, it’s best to stick with wire-free designs—especially during the early postpartum phase. Comfort and milk flow come first.
Top Nursing Bra Recommendations (Tested & Trusted)
The best nursing bra isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about what fits your body, daily routine, and breastfeeding needs. Below is a curated shortlist of top-rated nursing bras, each chosen for its standout features and real-mom approval.
🧾 Quick Comparison Table
| Bra Name | Best For | Key Features |
| Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless | Everyday wear | Seamless, stretchy, removable pads, drop-down nursing clips |
| Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime | Overall comfort | Wireless, ultra-soft, adjustable band and straps |
| Bravado Designs Ballet Bra | Sleep | No clasps, pull-on design, feather-soft modal fabric |
| Blanqi Cooling Maternity & Nursing Bra | Breathability | Cooling fabric, lightweight feel, racerback support |
Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Bra
This is your go-to for everyday comfort and discreet nursing access. It’s stretchy, supportive, and incredibly soft, with removable pads and molded cups for shape without bulk. The one-handed nursing clips make mid-feed wardrobe shifts a breeze.
Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Nursing Bra
The MVP of multitasking moms. Designed for all-day wear, it blends wire-free support with a silky, cloud-like feel.Look for bras with adjustable straps and a wide band under the bust—they give great support while still feeling comfortable. Works well with nursing pads and pumping flanges too.
Bravado Designs Ballet Bra
Your nighttime essential. This ultra-soft, wireless bra slips on like a second skin and has a pull-down design that makes dream feeds less disruptive. Perfect for sleep, lounging, or low-effort nursing sessions at home.
Blanqi Cooling Maternity & Nursing Bra
If you run hot or live in a warm climate, this one’s for you. Engineered with breathable, temperature-regulating fabric, it keeps you cool and dry. The racerback style adds gentle support, and the drop-down cups keep feeding simple.
No matter which you choose, remember: comfort is queen—and the right nursing bra should feel like a soft hug you didn’t know you needed.
Conclusion:
Your body has done something extraordinary—and it’s still changing every day. That’s why finding the right nursing bra isn’t a one-time event, but an ongoing act of self-care. The perfect fit today might not be the perfect fit next month, and that’s okay. As your body changes during and after pregnancy, your bra should adjust to fit those changes too.
Remember: this isn’t just about support for your breasts. It’s about you. Your comfort, your confidence, your ability to move through the day without distraction or discomfort. You need a bra that supports you fully—not just your body, but your confidence and comfort too. Because when you feel good in your body, everything else gets just a little bit easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to determine nursing bra size while pregnant?
To measure your nursing bra size during pregnancy, use a soft measuring tape and wear a non-padded bra. To find your size, measure under your bust for the band size, then around the fullest part of your chest for the bust size. Subtract the band from the bust to get your cup size (1 inch = A, 2 inches = B, and so on). Get fitted during the second or third trimester when breast changes become more significant.
Q: Do you wear a normal bra during pregnancy or a nursing bra?
You can wear a normal bra in early pregnancy, but as your breasts grow and become more sensitive, switching to a maternity or nursing bra is recommended. These bras offer better support, flexible sizing, and added comfort. Nursing bras also provide convenient access for breastfeeding later on, making them a smart investment during pregnancy.
Q: When to get fitted for a bra after breastfeeding?
Once you’ve weaned and your milk has dried up—typically a few weeks to a couple of months after you stop nursing—your breasts will settle into a more stable size. That’s the ideal time to get professionally re-measured and update your bra wardrobe to reflect your post-breastfeeding body.
Q: How many bra sizes to go up when breastfeeding?
Most women go up 1 to 3 cup sizes during breastfeeding, and sometimes a band size as well due to rib cage expansion. However, the exact increase varies by body and stage. It’s important to get fitted multiple times throughout your breastfeeding journey to keep up with the changes.