Growing a tiny human is an incredible journey, and along with all the other amazing changes, your bust line will likely transform, too! Feeling fuller, heavier, and perhaps finding your usual bras just don't cut it anymore? You're not alone. Investing in the right maternity and nursing bras is crucial for your comfort, posture, and breast health throughout pregnancy and into your breastfeeding journey.

Here is a thorough guide to help you navigate the world of maternity and nursing bras.

 

Why You Need a Maternity Bra

As your body prepares for motherhood, your breasts will change. This growth is thanks to hormones expanding the milk ducts in readiness for breastfeeding.

• Size Changes: It's common to go up a cup size or two, and your rib cage may also expand, making you broader across the back. Some women notice growth as early as six weeks, others later in the third trimester.
• Support and Comfort: A well-fitted bra is vital. A badly-fitted one can cause discomfort, poor posture, and even back or neck pain. A good maternity bra offers comfortable support, is stretchy, and accommodates your changing size.
• Specialized Design: Maternity bras are designed to offer the best support for your changing shape, featuring soft, stretchy, and breathable materials, often with adjustable back closures and wider bands.

When to Get Fitted for a Maternity Bra

Since your breasts are changing, regular fittings are recommended.

• Early Pregnancy: You may want to get your first professional fitting in the first trimester when your breasts start to outgrow your regular bras.
• Regular Checks: Throughout your pregnancy, check your fit regularly as your size continues to change.
• Professional Help: Many department stores and specialty shops offer a free measuring service.

 

How to Tell if a Bra Fits Well

A good fit is the key to comfort and breast health. Here's what to look for:

1. The Cups: The entire breast should fit comfortably inside the bra cup. There should be no bulging above or at the sides.
2. The Centre: The centre front of the bra should sit flat against your body, regardless of your breast size.
3. The Band: The band around the bottom should lie horizontally across your back and be at the same level front and back—it should not arch when you move. You should be able to pull the band about an inch away from your body.
4. The Straps: Straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders without slipping or digging in. Remember, they should not carry the weight of your breasts; the band provides the main support.
5. Hooks: When buying a bra during pregnancy, it is best to buy one that does up comfortably on the tightest hook. This allows room to expand as you grow.

The Underwire Question

You may have heard that underwired bras are a no-go during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While they can be okay, they require extra caution:

• Fit is Critical: If you choose an underwired bra, it must be perfectly fitted and size-checked regularly. The wire must sit flat against your body, around the breast, without pressing down, gaping, or digging into any breast tissue.
• Breastfeeding Risks: When breastfeeding, breasts can change size between feeds. Underwire can put pressure on the milk ducts, potentially causing blocked ducts that could lead to mastitis.
• Safer Options: Some specialty breastfeeding bras feature softer, more flexible wires that are less likely to cause a problem. When in doubt, a comfortable, wire-free, and supportive bra is often the safest and most comfortable option, particularly during the early weeks of nursing.

 

The Nursing Bra: Your Post-Birth Essential

If you plan to breastfeed, a nursing bra is designed to make feeding easier and provide necessary support.

• Drop-Down Cups: Nursing bras feature cups with clips that easily drop down to expose the breast for feeding.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Look for a bra where you can unhook the strap clips easily with only one hand—you'll be holding your baby with the other! Practice this before your baby arrives.
• Fitting Time: The best time to be measured and fitted for a nursing bra is a few weeks before your baby is born, especially if your breast shape is still changing.
• Avoid Tightness: When choosing a nursing bra, be extra careful that it isn't too tight or restrictive. A restrictive bra can lead to blocked ducts and mastitis.

 

Don't Forget the Sleep Bra

Many women find that their breasts feel heavy and uncomfortable at night, or they begin to leak milk, requiring breast pads.

• Light Support: A sleep bra or a soft, stretchy crop top provides very light support and is a great way to keep breast pads in place.
• Comfort is Key: Opt for soft, non-restrictive support that won't put pressure on your breast tissue, which can lead to blocked ducts.
• Practical Tip: Buying inexpensive crop tops can save your proper nursing bras for daytime use, cutting down on laundry!

 

Material Matters

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, many women experience nipple sensitivity, tenderness, itchiness, or feel sweaty.

• Breathable Fabrics: Choose breathable, natural fibre fabrics like cotton and silk over synthetics like polyester. They will help keep you cooler and more comfortable.
• Stretch and Softness: Look for bras made from soft, stretchy material that will adapt to your body's changing shape without creating tension on the breast tissue.

 

Your body is going through an incredible transformation! Investing in supportive, comfortable, and well-fitting maternity wear is a simple way to take care of yourself as you embark on this new chapter.

 

You Are Invited to Experience the Perfect Fit!

We know the struggle is real: buying a maternity bra online feels like a gamble. With your body changing so rapidly, finding the right fit without trying it on first is tough, and the last thing you need is the stress of a complicated return policy.

At Klare Maternity, we're dedicated to making sure you find comfort and confidence during this special time. That's why we're removing all the risk from your shoulders and placing it entirely on ours.

Our Perfect Fit Promise: Claim Your FREE Maternity Bra

We are so confident that you will love the comfort and support of our bras that we want you to try one on us!

Forget the hassle of returns or the anxiety of sizing charts. We're willing to take all the risk and give you a FREE maternity bra to experience the Klare difference firsthand.

Here's the deal:

• 100% Free Bra: No cost, no hidden fees, no credit card required.
• Zero Risk: We cover the bra and the postage. All the "hustle" is on us!
• The Comfort Test: Try it on, wear it at home, and decide if it's the perfect fit for your growing shape.

We want every mom in Australia to feel comfortable and confident in their purchase. Don't let the fear of an online size guess hold you back from finding your perfect support.

To claim your FREE bra and start your comfort journey, simply reach out to us today:

• Message us on Instagram: @klarematernity
• Email us: customercare@klarematernity.com

Limited stock is available for this incredible offer, so contact us now!

Your Feedback Makes the Difference!

Once you've had a chance to try your free bra, we'd love to hear from you.

• Love It? If your new bra is the perfect fit and makes you feel amazing, please share your experience on social media! Tag us @klarematernity and let other moms know about the comfort and support you found.
• Feedback? If you have any suggestions, comments, or thoughts on how we can improve, please email us or message us @klarematernity your feedback. It helps us continue to evolve and create the best maternity wear for Australian moms!