How Should a Nursing Bra Fit?
Finding the right nursing bra isn't just about choosing the right size on the label.
Your body can change considerably during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so how your bra feels and fits is just as important as the number and letter on the label.
A nursing bra should feel comfortable, supportive and secure without digging in or making you feel restricted.
So how do you know if yours fits properly?
Here's what to look for.
The band should feel comfortable and secure
The band around your back provides much of the support from your bra, so it's an important place to start.
It should sit comfortably around your body without digging in or feeling uncomfortably tight.
It should also sit fairly level rather than riding up at the back.
If you're constantly pulling the band down or tightening your straps to keep everything in place, your bra may not be giving you the right support.
Your breasts should sit comfortably inside the cups
The cups should comfortably contain your breasts without:
- Spilling over the top
- Bulging at the sides
- Digging into your breast tissue
- Leaving lots of unnecessary space
Remember that your breasts can change in size throughout the day when you're breastfeeding, so you don't necessarily want a very rigid fit.
A little flexibility can be a good thing.
Check the straps
Your straps should feel secure without digging into your shoulders.
If they're slipping off constantly, they may need adjusting.
But if you're tightening the straps as far as they'll go because you aren't getting enough support, don't assume the straps are the problem. It's worth checking the fit of the whole bra.
Can you comfortably move?
A good nursing bra shouldn't make you feel restricted.
Try moving your arms, sitting down and generally moving around as you normally would.
The bra should stay comfortably in place without pinching, digging or shifting around.
Remember, you're likely to be wearing it while doing all sorts of things — including feeding, carrying and cuddling your baby — so comfort really matters.
Can you easily open the nursing clips?
This is an important part of the fit and functionality of a nursing bra.
Try opening and closing the clips before you buy.
You want to be able to release the cup easily, ideally using one hand.
It might feel like a tiny detail when you're standing in front of the mirror, but you'll be very grateful for an easy fastening when you've got a hungry baby in your arms!
What about fitting a nursing bra during pregnancy?
This is where things can get a little tricky.
Your breasts can continue changing throughout pregnancy, and they can change again once your baby arrives.
That's why it's worth avoiding the temptation to buy a whole collection of nursing bras too early.
Instead, choose comfortable styles with a little flexibility and allow yourself some room for change.
If you're buying a nursing bra towards the end of pregnancy, it's worth paying particular attention to how it feels now, rather than trying to predict exactly what size you'll be after your baby arrives.
What if my nursing bra feels too tight?
If your bra feels uncomfortable, digs in or leaves you feeling restricted, it's worth reassessing the fit.
Don't assume you simply need to put up with it because you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
Try adjusting the straps and fastenings first. If it still doesn't feel right, you may need a different size or style.
Sometimes it's simply a case of trying a different shape of bra.
The right nursing bra should make your life easier — not something you spend the whole day wishing you could take off!
What if my nursing bra feels too loose?
A nursing bra shouldn't feel loose and unsupported either.
If the cups are gaping significantly, the band is moving around or you're constantly adjusting your bra, it may not be giving you enough support.
Again, check the straps and fastenings first. If that doesn't solve the problem, try another size or style.
Different bra shapes can fit very differently, even when they're technically the same size.
The most important thing: how does it feel?
There are lots of measurements and fitting advice available, but ultimately you need to feel comfortable in your bra.
Your perfect nursing bra should feel:
Comfortable.
Supportive.
Secure.
Easy to use.
And ideally, it should make you feel good too.
You don't have to choose between a bra that's practical and one that makes you feel feminine.
Need more nursing bra advice?
If you're still trying to work out which type of nursing bra is right for you, take a look at our Ultimate Nursing Bra Guide, where we cover everything from when to buy a nursing bra to choosing between wireless and flexi-wire styles.
And if you're wondering how many you'll actually need, we've got that covered too!
Looking for nursing bras?
Explore our nursing bra collection and find a style that's right for you.