Finding the right maternity bra starts with getting a good idea of your current size.
Your body can change throughout pregnancy, so your bra size may not stay the same. Measuring yourself can give you a useful starting point when you're choosing a new maternity bra.
The good news is that you don't need any complicated equipment — just a soft tape measure and a few minutes.
What you'll need
You'll need:
- A soft measuring tape
- A mirror, if possible
- A well-fitting, non-padded bra
It's best to measure yourself without a thick or heavily padded bra, as this can affect your measurements.
Step 1: Measure around your ribcage
First, measure around your body directly underneath your breasts, where the band of your bra normally sits.
Keep the tape measure level all the way around your body. It should feel snug but not painfully tight.
Make a note of this measurement.
This gives you an indication of your band size.
Step 2: Measure around your bust
Next, measure around the fullest part of your breasts.
Keep the tape measure level around your back and across your bust. Don't pull the tape tightly — it should sit gently against your body without compressing your breasts.
Make a note of this measurement too.
This measurement helps determine your cup size.
Step 3: Check the brand's size guide
This is an important step.
Bra sizing can vary between brands, so don't assume that your measurements will always correspond to exactly the same size.
Once you have your measurements, check the individual brand's size guide before choosing your maternity bra.
If you're shopping online, this is particularly important.
What if I'm between sizes?
Don't panic if your measurements don't fall neatly into one size.
Pregnancy isn't the time to squeeze yourself into a bra that doesn't feel comfortable just because the numbers say you should.
Look at the brand's recommendations and consider the style of bra you're buying.
A flexible maternity bra with adjustable straps and multiple hook-and-eye settings can give you more room to accommodate changes as your pregnancy progresses.
Should I measure during pregnancy?
Yes.
There's no point measuring yourself using an old measurement from before pregnancy if your body has already changed.
Your breasts and ribcage can change throughout pregnancy, so measure yourself when you're ready to buy a new bra.
You may also need to measure again later if your current maternity bra starts feeling uncomfortable.
How often should I remeasure?
There's no need to measure yourself every few weeks.
Instead, use the fit of your bra as your guide.
If your current bra starts feeling tight, your breasts are spilling out of the cups or you're no longer feeling properly supported, it's worth checking your size again.
You may find that your measurements have changed.
What if my breasts are different sizes?
It's very common for breasts to be slightly different sizes.
If there's a noticeable difference, choose a bra that comfortably accommodates your larger breast rather than trying to squeeze it into a smaller cup.
Adjustable straps can also help you fine-tune the fit.
Don't rely on measurements alone
Measuring yourself is a useful starting point, but the final test is always how the bra actually fits and feels.
Your maternity bra should:
- Feel comfortable around your ribcage
- Support your breasts without squeezing them
- Have cups that contain your breasts without spilling or gaping
- Have straps that don't dig into your shoulders
- Stay in place without riding up
- Allow you to move comfortably
If your measurements suggest one size but the bra doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to try another size or style.
Different bra designs can fit very differently, even when they're labelled the same size.
What about your size after pregnancy?
If you're planning to breastfeed, remember that your breasts may change again after your baby arrives.
Your pregnancy bra size isn't necessarily going to be your breastfeeding size.
That's why it's often sensible to buy a small number of comfortable maternity or nursing bras during pregnancy rather than stocking up on lots of one size.
You can then reassess your fit once your baby arrives.
Measuring is just the beginning
Getting your measurements is useful, but finding the right maternity bra is about more than numbers.
Your body is changing, and the right bra should adapt with you as much as possible.
Measure, check the brand's size guide and then pay attention to how the bra actually feels.
If it's comfortable, supportive and you're not constantly aware of it while you're wearing it, you're probably on the right track.