Nursing Bras

Boobs do interesting things as they transform into milk makers. Mostly, they grow bigger as they grow fuller.

You’re going to need a few different kinds (and likely sizes) of nursing bras throughout your pregnancy and breastfeeding journey—the comfy kind for around-the-house lounging and the sexier, functional kind that doesn’t involve a moderately unattractive uniboob.

For optimal fit, measure yourself three to four months postpartum, before a feeding when your boobs are at their fullest. Measure under your breasts to get your band size, rounding up if you get an odd number. Measure at the fullest part of your breasts and subtract your first measurement from that number. (1” = A cup, 2” = B, and so on.)

Comfortable Nursing Bras

The 4th Trimester is all about nourishing baby and healing yourself, which generally means lots and lots of around-the-house lounging. Comfy nursing bras are underwire-free and are generally more accommodating to the fluctuations of new motherhood—from engorged, leaking breasts to nipple tenderness. Comfy bras are also ideal for the third trimester, when you’d rather not do a whole lot and you think your boobs couldn’t possibly get bigger. (Except… surprise! They will get bigger.) These are some fan favorite comfy, underwire-free nursing bras.

Motherhood Maternity Full Busted Nursing Bra ($25)
Kindred Bravely Organic Cotton Nursing and Sleep Bra ($30)
Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Bra ($40)
Hofish 3-Pack ($25 for 3)
Kindred Bravely French Terry Racer Back Nursing & Sleep Bra ($30)
Kindred Bravely Marvella T-Shirt Bra ($50)

Functional (and Dare I Say Sexy) Nursing Bras

Once you start to get out of the house more, you’re going to want a bra that makes your boobs look good—and there are lots of options that also serve as functional nursing bras these days!

You’re going to want to look for something that is full coverage with minimal padding. The most important factors here are fit and coverage. (And contrary to popular belief, underwire bras are not the enemy. Ill-fitting bras are!)

Here are some “ready-made” nursing bras that also make you look damn fine.

ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Nursing Bra ($72)
Natori Hidden Glamour Nursing Bra ($70)

Here are some non-nursing bras that are nearly universally beloved. They can be converted into nursing bras with a set of these clips and help from a seamstress. (If you buy your bra from Nordstrom they can handle it for you at the store. Regardless of where you do it, it usually costs ~$15.)