Finding the right maternity bra isn't just about getting the right size. It should feel comfortable, supportive and give your changing body enough room to move.
Your breasts and ribcage can change throughout pregnancy, so a bra that fitted perfectly a few months ago may eventually start feeling too tight or restrictive.
Here's what to look for when checking your maternity bra fit.
How should the band fit?
The band should sit comfortably and securely around your ribcage.
It shouldn't dig into your skin, ride up at the back or feel so tight that you're desperate to take it off by the end of the day.
At the same time, it shouldn't be so loose that it rides up or fails to provide support.
A good maternity bra should feel secure without feeling restrictive.
Look for a bra with several hook-and-eye settings so you have some flexibility as your body changes.
How should the cups fit?
Your breasts should sit comfortably inside the cups without being squeezed or spilling over the edges.
If you're getting:
- Spillage over the top or sides
- Bulging around the cups
- Gaping
- Wrinkling or excess fabric
- Pressure or discomfort
…it may be a sign that the cup size or style isn't right for you.
Your breasts should be fully supported without feeling compressed.
What about the underwire?
If you choose an underwired maternity bra, the wire should sit around the breast rather than on it.
It shouldn't dig into your breast tissue, pinch underneath your breasts or feel uncomfortable when you move.
Some women prefer wireless bras during pregnancy because they find them softer and more comfortable, particularly if their breasts have become sensitive.
There's no requirement to choose one style over the other — comfort and fit are what matter.
How should the straps feel?
Your straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders without digging in.
If they're constantly slipping off, you may need to adjust them.
If they're digging into your shoulders, don't simply assume you need to tighten them further. The bra may not be providing enough support through the band, leaving the straps to do too much of the work.
How should the back of the bra sit?
Take a look at the back of your bra in a mirror.
The band should sit relatively level rather than riding up towards your shoulder blades.
If the back keeps creeping upwards, the band may be too loose or the bra may not be fitting correctly.
Should a maternity bra feel loose?
Not necessarily.
It's easy to think that because your body is changing, you should buy a bra that's deliberately loose or several sizes too big.
You shouldn't.
Your maternity bra should fit comfortably now, while giving you some flexibility for future changes.
Adjustable straps, flexible fabrics and multiple hook-and-eye settings can all help with this.
What if my breasts are different sizes?
It's completely normal for breasts to be slightly different sizes, and pregnancy can sometimes make the difference more noticeable.
Choose a bra that fits the larger breast comfortably, and use the adjustable straps to help create a more even fit.
Some bra styles are also more forgiving than others if you have a difference in breast size.
How do I know if my maternity bra is too small?
Your bra may be too small if:
- Your breasts are spilling out of the cups
- The band feels tight or digs into your skin
- The underwire is pressing into your breast tissue
- Your straps are digging into your shoulders
- You feel restricted when wearing it
- You're constantly adjusting your bra
If several of these sound familiar, it's probably time to reassess your size or try a different style.
How do I know if my maternity bra is too big?
A bra can also be too big.
Look out for:
- Gaping cups
- Wrinkled or loose fabric
- A band that rides up
- Straps that constantly slip
- Not feeling properly supported
If you're experiencing these problems, try adjusting the straps and fastenings first. If that doesn't help, you may need a different size or style.
Your maternity bra doesn't have to fit the same forever
One of the most important things to remember is that your body is changing.
A maternity bra that fits beautifully now may not fit the same way several months from now.
Don't be afraid to reassess your bra size and fit as your pregnancy progresses.
You may find that you need a different size, a different style or simply a little more room.
The perfect fit should feel comfortable
There isn't one particular style of maternity bra that's right for everyone.
Some women prefer soft wireless styles. Others want the support and shape of an underwired bra. Some prefer a maternity bra designed specifically for pregnancy, while others choose a nursing bra that can be worn through pregnancy and beyond.
The most important thing is that your bra fits properly, feels comfortable and supports your changing body.
If you're constantly aware of your bra because it's digging, pinching, slipping or squeezing, it's probably time to find a better fit.
If you're not sure where to start, take a look at our Your Maternity Lingerie Guide, or read How to Measure for a Maternity Bra to help you find the right size.