How to buy the right size nursing bra. The Fourth Trimester?
The first few weeks postpartum, you might notice your bra size changing almost hourly - and that’s completely normal. The perfect nursing bra for this is My Necessity, with easy multifit cup sizing that ensures a flexible fit. Fluctuations in your cup size are due to breast engorgement, and while it can be uncomfortable, it’s a sign your body is working hard to nourish your baby.
What is breast engorgement?
It happens when your breasts fill with milk, usually a few days after birth. Your breasts may feel swollen, tender, and even a bit hard. This feeling usually gets better once breastfeeding is established and your supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. If you’re not breastfeeding, the swelling usually eases within a few days as your body stops making milk.
How to find relief with breast engorgement:
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Breastfeed often. Try to feed your baby whenever they show signs of hunger — don’t worry about sticking to a strict schedule. Night feeds can be tiring, but they help prevent engorgement.
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Soften your breast before feeding. Hand express a little milk or use a pump to relieve pressure and help your baby latch more easily.
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Warmth before, cool after. A warm shower or warm compresses before feeding can encourage milk flow, while cold packs after feeding can ease soreness and swelling.
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Stay comfortable. Hotmilk Lingerie has a collection of Comfort bras, the perfect combination of gentle support. If you’re leaking between feedings, nursing pads can keep you dry and help you feel fresher.
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Listen to your body. If your breasts stay painfully swollen or you notice redness, warmth, or fever, reach out to your healthcare provider — you deserve to feel supported and comfortable.
This phase can feel overwhelming, but remember - you’re doing an incredible job. Engorgement is tough, but it’s temporary. Your body is adapting to this new chapter, and each day brings you and your baby closer to finding your rhythm together.
How many bra sizes do you go up when breastfeeding?
Birth–3 months (Get breastfeeding sorted and start postpartum recovery)
It’s completely normal to go up 1 to 3 cup sizes while breastfeeding - though every mama's body responds a little differently!
For those first 4-6 weeks while your body adjusts, multi-fit comfort bras are the perfect option keep you supported without feeling too tight. Once things settle, you can treat yourself to a more fitted, supportive nursing bra that flatters your new shape — because you deserve to feel comfortable and confident. And remember, your breasts may stay larger than your pre-pregnancy size for as long as you’re breastfeeding — it’s all part of your body’s incredible journey.
How to find your correct bra size,
STEP 1) Start wearing your best-fitting non-padded bra (not one you are spilling out of).
STEP 2) Measure quite tightly underbust for your band size - Your bra won't fit tight but the underbust measurement needs to be to get the right size!
STEP 3) Measure loosely around the fullest part of your bust at the middle of your feed cycle. Not too full, not totally empty - this will guide you to your cup size E, F, FF etc
STEP 4) Using your measurement follow the bra measurement guide.
* The ideal band fit for your nursing bras is on the loose to middle hooks so you can tighten as needed. (there is no perfect time frame, allow your body the time it needs to recover)
* Your cup should fit well we you are in between feeds. ie don't not measure or fit a bra when you're full before nursing, or empty straight after.
For more tips Use our fitting quiz and of course 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!
