Finding a bra that fits and flatters is a daunting task to most on any given day, but after one special day changes your life completely, the task can seem even more difficult. There is no reason to add more stress to the hectic life of a new mother, so to help you in the search we’ve broken it down into three easy steps: 

Fit:

Firstly, breast size is directly related to your hormones. Your breasts can change up to one full cup size throughout the year, so can you imagine the changes that take place when they go from being eye candy alone to a fully functioning feeding device! Give yourself a break because it is completely normally for breasts to grow throughout a pregnancy.  In all honestly they will probably never be the same, you just need to make sure you get fresh undergarments that fit to accommodate those changes and make you feel at home in your body once again. 

Because of the changes in your body, check your fit. If you try on your old bras and they fit fine, then it’s ok to go ahead and buy a maternity bra in your usual size, but if something feels off, maybe your underwires are pinching or the band size feels too tight, try checking your fit yourself.

Some additional tips:

• In order to measure yourself you should wear a non-padded and well fitting bra. Make sure you exhale before taking a measurement to make sure your chest is not puffed up with air so you get an accurate reading.
• Also make sure you hold the tape parallel to the floor. It helps to look in a mirror to ensure this.
• Your bra should not be giving you marks at the end of the day. Shoulder marks may mean you need to look for a bra with wider straps.  When shopping, look for notes that say rigid/non-stretch front strap, as these are more supportive. Marks along your band may mean it’s time to re-measure your band size. Marks from your underwire may mean it’s time to check your cup size. 

Flatter:

Some nursing bras are more like wearing body armor than lingerie, but there are some really pretty details and colors out there. There is admittedly a lack of fashion colors and styles in nursing bras – but not many new moms want to buy a floral number for nursing. It is actually more practical to buy black, white, or nude because these colors are more versatile. 

This style by LeMystere is a really pretty ivory, still basic, but the shape and the lace make it a really pretty piece! 

Choose a color you think would fit your lifestyle. Black is slimming, flattering, and also won’t show stains that will inevitably take place around a newborn.    

Another thing to think about when finding a bra that will flatter your bust is any sensitivity that you may have in your breast tissue following pregnancy. If you are sensitive you may want to opt for a non-underwire nursing bra like this one from Elle Macpherson. It won’t be as supportively lifting as an underwire style, but it provides shape, modesty, and comfort! The little lace detailing along the cup is pretty and the wide straps make it an ideal size for cup sizes like a C/D/DD. 

Remember to change your nursing pads if they become moist.  And to help you remember which side to start on, place a safety pin on the strap of the side your baby should nurse from next!

When you think of what is allowed during labor, do ice chips come to mind?  Fortunately, this may be changing soon.  How about some broth?  A bit of juice?  These may soon be available to women during normal, healthy labors.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released a Committee Opinion regarding the distribution of liquids to women during labor.  The ACOG states that women who are undergoing an uncomplicated labor may enjoy modest amounts of broth, water, juice and other clear liquids.  This also includes women who are scheduled for a normal cesarean section.

In the past, women have not been allowed liquids during labor due to the threat of aspiration in the event of an unplanned c-section.  However, due to improvements in anesthesiology and continued solid food restrictions, this risk has diminished significantly.  Women who are considered high risk may still have liquid restrictions.  This includes women with diabetes, obesity and other health issues.

So don’t be surprised if you are offered a bit of juice during your next labor.  This modification in oral intake policy will be quite a refreshing change for many!