The 411 on Lingerie for New Mothers

Lingerie is an essential tool in every woman’s arsenal. It supports us. It makes us feel powerful and confident. Simply put, it is our secret weapon against the world. Becoming a new mother does not mean you have to relinquish that feeling. In fact, it's quite the opposite! For new mothers, you just have a whole new set of lingerie to play with. ‘Breastfeeding bras’ or ‘open breast bras’ are a necessity for all pregnant and lactating mothers, and Bunne & Mamalade is a maternity clothing store dedicated to helping you learn all about them – from when to start wearing them to all of its benefits. Without further ado, new Mommy’s, let's get started!

When to Start Wearing Breastfeeding Bras

A misconception among new mothers is that you only wear breastfeeding bras when you start to breastfeed, but I’m here to tell you that that’s simply not true! In fact, wearing your regular old bras could actually do more harm than good because as your breasts get larger, your everyday bra can actually be very constricting and the pressure may cause the milk ducts to become inflamed. Therefore, it is extremely important to start wearing breastfeeding bras while you’re still pregnant.

Types of Nursing Bras

Front Open Style: These bras are without contours and have a wide opening at the breast. When feeding the baby, the shirt can be unclasped immediately from the front.

Open-Back Style: A bra with buttons attached to the side. When feeding, the buttons can be removed to open as a space for feeding.
Front-Centered Button Style: A bra that has vertical buttons attached to the center of the chest. When you want to nurse or pump breast milk, just release the button and the bra will open from the middle.
Window Style: A breastfeeding bra style that everyone is familiar with. You can open the clip from the front to release the bra's outer layer, and thus a "window" is created for your breasts.
Open-Front Cuff Style: A bra with 2 layers of fabric stacked together with a hook on the top layer. When opening the front fabric, there will be a feeding window that is more convenient.

The Benefits of Breastfeeding Bras

Helps to support the chest: It can help to tighten the breasts as to avoid sagging because as we all know, ladies, that if you don't wear a bra, the weight of yours breasts can naturally sag.

Makes it convenient to breastfeed: Perhaps self-explanatory, but it makes it easier to breastfeed. The bra can be opened for breastfeeding more easily and conveniently than regular bras.

Prevent milk from leaking into the shirt: Breastfeeding bras also have milk pads that can be placed into the bra to prevent the milk from getting onto your clothes. A definite benefit to avoid little mishaps in public!

A wide base to support the expansion of the chest: It has a base that is wider than a regular bra to support your growing breasts during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

How to Choose a Maternity Bra

The fabric has to have high flexibility and be well ventilated: The first thing you should always look for is the type of fabric used. You need a stretchier material to expand with your body, something a little more forgiving than your average bra. You will also need a more breathable fabric for comfort.

A wider back than a normal bra: The next thing to look for is the back of the bra. It should be wider than usual to help keep the breasts' shape. During this time, our bodies will go through so many changes, but there’s no need to let that change how we view ourselves. We may now be mothers but we’re also women too, and a well-fitting bra with a wider back can make us feel feminine and confident. Keep this in mind when searching for bras!

Should have 4-6 bra hooks: Having 4-6 bra hooks allows for adjustability around the torso. It is ideal as our breasts will continue to grow, especially when you begin breastfeeding. Did you know your breast size can change every day? With the right nursing bra, it’s nothing to be worried about!

A bra that can be opened and closed with one hand: You should choose a bra that can be opened and closed with one hand for the convenience of breastfeeding because with a baby in one arm, you’ll want that ease to unhook your bra yourself.

We hope that the above tips become helpful for new mothers. When the time comes, be sure to make that switch from regular bras to nursing bras! After all, we started our brand to provide comfort and convenience for women, so that they may feel beautiful throughout their entire maternity journey. For featured products, simply browse our Nursing Bra Collection at: https://bunnemamalade.com/collections/maternity-bras