Gone are the days when women have to resort to mismatched grey cotton and bras made from uncomfortable fabrics while pregnant and breastfeeding, with no consideration for when their breasts are at their most sensitive. You want to look and feel comfortable all at the same time.

When purchasing a maternity bra here are some dos and don’ts for you to consider:

1. When making your purchase it is important to look for a maternity bra that provides excellent support and flexibility to allow for breast fluctuation. An easy way to check this is to slide your hand into the upper cup section to assess if there is enough room for expansion.
2. When trying on different styles of maternity bra, remember to open and close the bra cup. Most bras are open for feeding and some are easier to manage than others. Look for bras where the whole cup folds away, as opposed to rigid ‘trapdoor’ styles which can also put pressure on a full breast while feeding. One-handed maternity clips provide fuss-free release at feeding time.
3. Ensure you buy a soft bra with six rows of hooks and eyes allowing for the diaphragm to expand during the months of pregnancy and the ability to tighten after the baby is born and the diaphragm settles. It also means you will be comfortable and have a beautifully supported silhouette!
4. Power fabric panels will ensure extra support, especially at the breastfeeding stage as breasts become heavier.
5. Underwire maternity bras are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your breasts are changing shape and underwire bras may put pressure on the breast restricting milk flow which can cause blocked milk ducts or result in mastitis.
6. Buy a maternity bra with seam-friendly cups designed to avoid the nipple area and therefore the risk of chafing.  Seems that stitching across the nipple area or unlined bras can cause irritation to already tender and sensitive breasts.
7. Don’t be lazy and leave it too late to get fitted for your breastfeeding bra. When you feel your bust increase in size, generally around the end of the first trimester, we strongly recommend you visit a professional bra fitter. Depending on the development of your bust size you should be fitted again at approximately seven months, this bra, if fitted well should see you through to the end of your pregnancy and into the breastfeeding stage.