One of the most common queries at this stage is, "How can I determine my bra size post-pregnancy?" It's a valid concern, which is why we recommend our versatile multi-fit styles that accommodate your changing body. We urge you not to postpone preparations, as your little one might make an early entrance, catching you off guard. Need assistance with packing your hospital bag? Take a look at our comprehensive Hospital Bag List for ultimate preparedness.
How to buy the right size nursing bra before giving birth?
Third Trimester (this is the trickest trimester!)
6-9 Months or 24-40 weeks (still about the bump and then some prep)
My Necessity is our most loved piece for late pregnancy and birth. Soft to the touch, no seams for pressure points and light support on tender breasts. Multifit to grow with your increasing cup size. Smooth contour cups help hold your breast pads in place during sleep. Perfect for around the home, hospital and sleep. We recommend at least 3 of these as your staple in your wardrobe. Shop easy multifit nursing bra styles here
When measuring your underbust in late pregnancy, it can get tricky due to your bump sitting high, keep in mind most women will go down a band size in the months after delivery. If you are currently wearing a Hotmilk Nursing bra this is the best place to start as a guide.
- You are currently wearing 12D with the band on the last hooks and you are spilling out of the cup - we would suggest the 12E (Your band size will decrease slowly after birth but you will increase in the cup as your milk comes in.
Use our sizing quiz here for your size, alternatively, you can self-measure using the steps below.
STEP 1) Start wearing your best fitting non-padded bra (not one you are spilling out of).
STEP 2) Measuring underbust is tricky, you may need to get someone to help. Baby sitting high will put this measurement out, we recommend using the measurement and what you were pre-pregnancy as a guide. ie measuring a 16 band but pre-pregnancy you were a 12 - then we recommend the 14 band.
STEP 3) Measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust - this will guide you to your cup size E, F etc
STEP 4) Using your measurement follow the bra measurement guide. However we do recommend you allow for at least 1 cup size increase in your bust when your milk comes in. So if you measure a DD we recommend going up to E for postpartum.
*The ideal band fit in the third trimester for your nursing bras is on the loosest hooks so after birth you can tighten as needed. (there is no perfect time frame, allow your body the time it needs to recover)
Our support team are always here to offer you individual advice so don't hesitate to reach out we would love to hear from you.
Every few months, check on your bra inventory. If your favourite bras are worn out, replace them! Don’t suffer in an uncomfortable, dead bra. Having a drawer full of ready-to-wear bras makes getting dressed and feeling your best easy. After all, bras are an essential piece of equipment in our journey to grow a human being and then be able to feed that little person! It's just a bonus that Hotmilk Lingerie makes you feel fabulous too!
