How Long Should I Wait To Get A Bra Fitting After I Stop Breastfeeding?

It goes without saying that your bust goes through a lot of changes throughout every stage of the breastfeeding process. And once that process is over, you’ll experience even more changes. Naturally, once your breasts aren’t required to produce milk any longer, their size will shift. For some women, this shift may mean returning to their pre-breastfeeding size and shape. Others may settle at a size somewhat larger than were prior to pregnancy, and some may actually notice their breasts shrink to an even smaller size than they were before. Every woman’s body is unique, but one thing’s for sure: Your size will not be the same once you’re done nursing.

Clearly, a bra fitting is more crucial than ever — after all, there’s no other way to know for sure how much your size has shifted. The question is, though, when should you schedule one? This guide should cover all your questions about post-breastfeeding bra fittings.

Weaning 101

A major factor in determining when to get fitted is the pace at which you wean your baby. Moms who rapidly wean their infant will notice a quicker change in bra size than those who slowly wean theirs. That’s because the pace at which you wean affects the pace at which the milk-producing glands deflate. It’s important to note that it takes a whopping five to six months for the milk supply to completely dry up. In other words, you won’t really settle into your true post-breastfeeding size until roughly half a year after you wean your baby.

Finding your new fit

Wait, so you have to wait six months to get fitted? Not necessarily. The changes in your breast size will occur very gradually over the course of that time. As such, it’s advisable to get fitted several weeks to a month after you finish weaning your child, and then again at that six-month mark. That way, you’ll have bras that fit you while your breasts are shifting, and then more that fit you once you “settle” into your new post-breastfeeding size.

At a fitting, you’ll not only learn your new size but also some other super helpful information as well. For example, a professional may be able to offer some insight into different styles that work best for you. You may be surprised that styles you loved in the past are no longer as flattering, while others enhance your bust even better. After all, it’s not just your size that may change as a result of breastfeeding, but your shape may as well.

How many bras will you need?

While it may be tempting to do so, we don’t recommend investing in a ton of bras directly after you’re done weaning. In the weeks and even months following nursing, your breasts will change a lot. Instead, consider investing in about three bras that you can rotate throughout the week once you’re done weaning. Then get re-fitted after five to six months, and as you know this will likely be your true size for a while, add some more bras to your collection.

Shopping tips for post-nursing bras

When shopping for post-nursing bras, the idea is to aim for maximum adjustability. You’ll definitely want adjustable straps and a back band that has at least three hook-and-eye closures. That way, your bras can accommodate for subtle changes in your breast size, and you can adjust them as you see fit. You should also make sure that the bra fits well on a tighter band setting when you buy it, as your rib cage may slowly start to contract a bit once you’re done weaning and therefore, you’ll likely need to tighten the band. Seeking a nicely rounded, perky shape? A more structured molded bra can help with shaping, which some women find they require following pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The most important thing to keep in mind while bra shopping is that size and shape changes you notice after breastfeeding are totally normal, and it may take some time to get comfortable with your new bust. Fortunately, well-fitting bras in the right style can help you to build up your confidence again. Who knows? You may find you like your new figure even better.

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!