JellyBean Blog

Your underwear, basic but so important

As a woman’s body changes throughout her pregnancy she can expect her breasts, belly and hips to grow larger.

So, as every woman buys maternity clothes, every woman should also buy maternity bras.

Maternity bras differ from regular bras in several ways.

-          The material is often different in maternity bras compared to regular bras, they will offer more support throughout the cup and straps.

-          Maternity bras may also have adjustable cups and extra adjustable clasps on the back of the bra, this helps the bra grow with the woman as her body changes.

-          Women planning to breastfeed may want to purchase a couple nursing bras towards the end of their pregnancy.

When to Switch?

Most women will feel more comfortable in a maternity bra from the beginning of their pregnancy when their breasts are tender (the tenderness in the breasts is often due to hormonal changes).

Pregnant women should wear a bra at all times due to the added weight most women experience. Choosing a special night time bra with soft supports rather than an underwire bra will help sleeping in a bra be more comfortable.

Some women like to have the support of underwires during the day. Maternity bras with underwires are padded extra thickly for extra comfort and longer wear.

During the middle of the pregnancy most women will notice their bras tightening. This may be a good time to buy one or two larger sized bras or switch to a maternity bra if they haven’t already.

Sometime during the third trimester is a good time to switch from maternity bras to nursing bras if the mother plans on breast feeding. Many nursing bras have the same comfort features as a maternity bra with extra clasps on the front of the cup to allow the baby to nurse.

Now you are off to buy your new bra? Bear these four points in mind:

• Look for a soft, comfortable and supportive design. Natural fabrics like cotton will keep you cool and comfy.

• Avoid standard underwired bras – wire may restrict the developing milk ducts and cause pain and discomfort.

• Don’t just buy one size up from normal – get properly fitted.

• Go for wide, adjustable back and shoulder straps.