Nursing bras come in several types and styles to ensure
function and comfort for all nursing moms. Below you will find photos
and descriptions of the basic types of nursing bras, with advantages
and disadvantages of each.
Underwire
 Just
like regular bras, some nursing bras have underwires You either
love 'em or you hate 'em.
Advantages:
Nursing bras with underwires usually provide great support.
Disadvantages:
Some women find underwires uncomfortable, and you should not
sleep in a bra that has an underwire. Also, when wearing an
underwire bra, be sure the wire is not putting pressure on the
breasts, as this could lead to block ducts and mastitis.
No Underwire
 If you do not currently wear an underwire bra, you may want to
go with a nursing bra that also has no underwire.
Advantages:
A nursing bra with no underwire may be more
comfortable, depending on what you're used to.
Disadvantages:
A nursing bra with no underwire may not
provide enough support for large-breasted women.
Flaps
 For your nursing convenience, many nursing bras are made so
that the material that covers the breast can be detached
without having to undo the bra. The nursing "flaps"
are designed for discreet nursing, and on some bras, they can
be adjusted to accommodate a changing cup size.
Please note: Both bras shown above (with and without
an underwire) have nursing flaps.
Advantages:
Flaps make nursing easy and convenient, and
can be especially handy when nursing in public. Sometimes the
flaps connect at the top of the bra cup, and other times they
connect at the middle of the two cups, near the band of the
bra. You should go with whatever type is easiest for you to
clasp and unclasp with one hand.
Disadvantages:
If the flaps do not clasp and unclasp
easily, it could be frustrating!
No Flaps
 Some nursing bras are made so they can easily be pulled to one
side with one hand (important, as your other hand will likely be holding
your baby).
Advantages:
These bras are usually made of softer
fabrics so they can be pulled aside easily, making them very
comfortable and often good bras to sleep in. These bras a also
generally less expensive than nursing bras with flaps.
Disadvantages:
These bras may not have the support that
bras
with flaps and/or under wires have.
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Example of
a nursing bra with a flap that connects at the top of
the bra.
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A good
nursing bra does not restrict the baby's access to the
breast. |
Example of
a nursing bra with a flap that connects at the middle of
the two cups. |
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