How to Choose the Best Maternity Bras

The bodies of pregnant women undergo many changes. Breasts increase between two and four cup sizes -- and become tender -- as a result of the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Breasts consist of ligaments that soften and stretch during pregnancy more than muscles. Purchase several comfortable maternity bras that fit properly throughout each trimester -- to fight the forces of gravity and keep skin from sagging and the breasts from drooping -- after delivery and breastfeeding. Pregnant women require larger cup sizes and widths in the first and second trimesters. Buy nursing bras in the third trimester to get the best fit.

Instructions

1

Measure under your bust around the top of your rib cage, this measurement is your band size. Put on a bra that fits and does not have any padding.

2

Measure around the widest part of your breasts. Subtract this measurement from the band size measurement to obtain your cup size measurement. Each inch you get for an answer is equivalent to a cup size, for most bras. So if your answer was between 2 and 2.5-inches, you are aB cup and if your answer ranges between 2.5- and 3.5-inches, you are a C cup.

3

Select bras that are cotton based and make sure there are no seam lines that cross over the nipples. Cotton dries quickly and keeps the skin cool.

4

Avoid purchasing bras with an underwire. These bras may prevent your milk from flowing properly and they also cause blood circulation problems. Opt for deep-sided bras with wide straps and supportive under-bust bands instead.

5

Choose bras with full coverage over the breast area. Attempt to purchase bras that will leave you some room to grow, especially if you are currently between sizes.

6

Find bras that have many rows of hook and eye closures. If you are between your first and second trimester your bras should fit most comfortably on the tighter settings and if you are in your third trimester, you should feel most comfortable with your bra on the widest setting.

7

Purchase at least one bra for your third trimester that has clips or cups that open easily with one hand, if you intend to breastfeed. Avoid nursing bras that open fully in the front.

8

Buy at least three bras, but avoid bras that have plastic lining.