What Are The Best Bras To Buy Post-Breastfeeding?
Once the pump has been stashed away and your little one has finally transitioned from breast milk, there’s one final step to signal that your breastfeeding phase has come to an end: trading those nursing bras for some other styles. It’s a bittersweet process for sure. Not only do you have to come to terms with the fact that those snuggly bonding seshes with your baby have come to an end, but you also have to come to terms with the fact that your boobs simply aren’t the same. Now, let’s be clear: Change isn’t always permanent, and it isn’t always necessarily a bad thing. That said, your bust will likely be looking — and feeling — slightly differently after pregnancy and breastfeeding. And that means that there’s a good chance you won’t be able to simply go back to wearing the same bras you wore pre-pregnancy.
In this guide, we’ll cover all the changes you can expect — plus how to find the right bras.
Your breasts after nursing
Among the most common changes you’ll experience are a decrease in size and a loss of fullness — particularly above the nipple. According to WebMD, the breasts increase in size right before and during breastfeeding due to the development of denser tissue that produces the milk. Once breastfeeding is over, however, those milk-making cells are no longer needed, which is why your boobs may appear deflated.
Given these changes, it’s absolutely crucial to get fitted by a professional once you have stopped nursing. A pro will be able to determine your new size so that you can invest in new bras that flatter your bust and more importantly, provide ample support. Ideally, you should wait three to six weeks after you’ve fully weaned before getting fitted — that way you’ll get a more accurate measurement, as your boobs can continue to change a bit right after breastfeeding ends. Then, you should be prepared to get fitted again six months after weaning. This is because your body will have normalized a bit again and your breasts may gain some of their fullness back, so you’ll be settling into your new size.
Related: When Should I Stop Wearing Nursing Bras?
The best post-nursing bras
As previously mentioned, your breasts may appear a bit deflated and shrunken post-breastfeeding. Fortunately, there are certain bra styles that can help in both departments.
For example, a padded demi-cup bra is a phenomenal choice. The padding can help make the breasts appear fuller while also offering some subtle shaping. And the demi-cup shape is perfect when your breasts are less full up top — since they offer less coverage, you’re more likely to fill them out, so you won’t have to deal with any unsightly gaping or puckering.
Another perfect pick is a contour plunge bra, which provides an incredible amount of support and shaping. The contoured cups can sculpt your breasts into a fuller, more rounded looking shape, and the plunge style is also ideal as the narrow center gore is less likely to dig into your breasts. A plunge molded bra is another wonderful option for the same reasons.
When you’re seeking to amp up the cleavage (perhaps for a head-turning look on date night), go for a push-up bra. This style will gather the breast tissue inward and upward, disguising that shallowness you may be experiencing at the top of your boobs and giving them some serious volume.
Final tips
There are a few more things to keep in mind while shopping for bras after breastfeeding:
A three-part cup bra can offer an incredible amount of lift and shaping and bralettes can provide lightweight support and lift without underwire.
You’ll definitely want to seek out bras with adjustable bands and straps after weaning, as your breasts may continue to shift and change over the coming months. Make sure the bra fits comfortably on the loosest hook so you can tighten as needed.
Side boning will help to contain the breast tissue and keep it gathered at the front of the chest to ensure it doesn’t splay outward toward the sides of your torso of your underarms.
Remember that knowing your sister size can be immensely helpful. If you’re struggling to achieve a perfect fit despite getting measured by a pro, you may find that your sister size resolves certain issues.
Lastly, try different styles in the fitting room to get the best fit. You might be pleasantly surprised by a style you wouldn’t normally try.
Related: Bra Shopping Guide: Tips For Buying New Bras
We Highly Recommend
Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for your wedding day, 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!
