Bras in pregnancy and for breastfeeding

General information, not medical advice. If you are worried about a symptom, speak to your GP, midwife, breast care nurse or NHS 111.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you have pain, redness or a lump, or are worried about anything, speak to your midwife, health visitor, GP or pharmacist.

During pregnancy

Breasts often change size and become more sensitive in pregnancy. A maternity bra can simply be any bra that fits you well and feels comfortable. Many people prefer non-wired or flexi-wired styles (a softer, more flexible wire), but an underwired bra can still work if it is comfortable and you check the fit regularly so nothing digs in.

Features that help as you change:

• Soft, stretchy fabrics that adapt to your shape.
• Wider straps for support.
• Extra rows of hooks so the band can grow with you.
• Sleep bras, bralettes or crop-top styles for comfort at night.

Nursing bras

Nursing bras have drop-down cups — usually opened with a clip on the strap — or cups that you can pull aside, so you can feed without taking the bra off. Breasts can change a lot during breastfeeding, even over the course of a day, so many nursing bras are non-wired with stretch cups.

When to buy: Bravissimo suggests waiting until about 36–37 weeks of pregnancy, when you are more likely to get a good fit for after the birth. It also recommends sticking with non-wired styles for at least the first four weeks after your baby arrives.

Comfort and health

The NHS advises that if you have mastitis you should wear a comfortable, supportive bra and avoid tight-fitting clothing or bras until you feel better. For breast pain in general, it suggests a properly fitted bra during the day and a soft bra to sleep in.

The NHS says to ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if any part of your breast is red, hot or swollen, or if you have breast pain with a very high temperature or feel hot, cold or shivery.