Tips (Trotters Independent Publishing Services Ltd) have kindly given us permission to publish these test results
© Sharon Trotter 2005 www.tipslimited.com

Before I tell you how I scored the bras I want to go through a few of the points that are important when choosing a nursing bra. In my opinion these are the main features to look for in a good feeding bra:

• Attractive to look at: although this is a consideration, looks alone are no guarantee of a functional breastfeeding bra.
• Supportive: needs will vary but there is little point in a bra looking lovely if it doesn’t give you the desired support or ease of use.
• Size: does it come in a wide enough range of sizes to fulfill your needs? During pregnancy and breastfeeding it is advisable not to wear under wired bras as these could restrict the breast tissue, leading to blocked ducts. A good supporting bra in the correct size is vital. If possible get measured properly for your feeding bra a few weeks before your baby is due. At this stage, your breasts have grown to their full size. Following delivery and the first few days, your breasts will settle back to this size and your new bras will still be the perfect fit. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of trying a variety of sizes until you are comfortable. NB. Don’t forget to leave room for breast pads.
• Availability: Is it easy to get hold of? Is it sold in a high street store, mail order catalogue or over the Internet?
• Comfort: this is a must. It is important to try on the bra because you can’t tell how it’s going to fit from a picture. This is where high street brands are helpful because you can try before you buy. If you do buy mail order or online, make sure the company has a good returns policy.
• Design: in the early days of breastfeeding, your breasts can be swollen and tender (engorgement). It is very important not to wear a restrictive bra at these times. Straps that are too tight or that cut in at awkward places could lead to a blocked duct. Bras with an inner lining have the potential to cause restriction so unlined/open designs are especially useful. This allows the breasts to be free from obstruction during feeding (following testing and because of the incredibly stretchy and breathable fabric used in the Anna Cecilia easy-zip bra, I believe this is still an excellent choice, even though this design does have an inner lining). Play around with the different features so that you are familiar with how they will perform when you are feeding. This may sound odd but will pay dividends when you find the right bra for you!
• Ease of use: it doesn’t matter if it feels and looks great, if you can’t manage to open the bra easily for feeding. Once again, it’s important to try it before you buy it. A one handed opening device (as with the new Anna Cecilia range) is the easiest, allowing you to be discreet if required.
• Fabric: is the fabric too thick or too thin? Will it be hot or will the straps dig in? Sports type nursing bras may have an elastic under-bust band. This should not be too tight and should be tried on and tested for comfort? The new breathable microfibre fabrics are excellent at keeping skin cool and dry, drawing moisture away from the body.
• Putting it on: this may seem obvious but needs a mention. If you have tender breasts, putting on a bra over your head can be a struggle. It’s much easier to have a front or back opening bra. This said, someone recently informed me that they ‘stepped into’ their pull-on designed bras, which is a good tip.
• Washing instructions: you will need to wash and dry your breastfeeding bras on an almost daily basis, so it’s better if they are machine washable and even better if they go in the tumble dryer. Check the labels. Some manufacturers recommend hand washing, even though the bras seem to tolerate machine washing and tumble drying well. It is up to you whether you want to take the risk.
• Information: you don’t need a book, but some accurate information on the bra and about breastfeeding would be helpful. Check to see if there are leaflets in store to go with the bras. These can be very informative and are usually free!
• Matching underwear: just because you are breastfeeding doesn’t mean that you need to feel frumpy. There are lots of maternity bras that have lovely pants or thongs to match and come in a variety of colours.
• Price: you will need at least four or more bras if you are going to breastfeed. With this in mind you must choose the bra that best suits your budget.
• Remember that you will need to fit breast pads inside the bra, so allow for this when trying them on. It is also helpful to check how visible breast pads are under the bra. The best breast pads are those that do not have any plastic backing as they become hot and sticky. 100% cotton is the best and most absorbent material. You can choose from reusable washable ones or disposables.

And you thought it was just a matter of buying the first maternity bra that you came across!

© Sharon Trotter 2005 www.tipslimited.com

contributions@forparentsbyparents.co.uk.