Guide to Nursing Bras: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Breastfeeding Journey

Hey there, expecting Canadian parents! As you prepare for your little one's arrival, you might be thinking about nursing bra's. A quick stop into the shop, or a visit to our nursing bra collection you'll discover a few different styles and options. Not all nursing bra's are made the same, and unlike pre-pregnancy, there's a little rhyme and reason to the different styles of nursing bras.

But first...  

When Should You Start Shopping for a Nursing Bra?

At Nest & Sprout, we recommend that you start shopping for a nursing bra during the third trimester, around the 7th or 8th month of pregnancy. At this point, you're rib cage has expanded, your breasts may feel fuller and more sensitive, and you probably don't fit into your pre-pregnancy bras. 

At this stage, your nursing bra should fit on the last hook - and picking up a bra during this time will give you comfort, and create less panic that first few weeks of postpartum. We'll recommend that the bra you pick is a multi-fit, meaning that it covers multiple cup sizes. Why? Because your body is still changing and your bra needs to continue to change with you for the next few weeks and months. 

Our go to nursing bra recommendation is the My Necessity Nursing Bra or Camisole. Be sure to check your rib cage measurement prior to ordering, while this bra generally fits true to size, we find that some smaller women need to size up because of the changes in their body during pregnancy. Available in a regular and full cub, there's an option for all bust shapes. 

Our go to nursing bra recommendation is the My Necessity Nursing Bra or Camisole. Be sure to check your rib cage measurement prior to ordering, while this bra generally fits true to size, we find that some smaller women need to size up because of the changes in their body during pregnancy. Available in a regular and full cub, there's an option for all bust shapes.

Different Types of Nursing Bras

Nothing is simple in parenting - there is a nursing bra options for every body, every breast, every lifestyle is different. 

1. Sleep & Multifit Nursing Bras: As your due date approaches, your body will undergo many changes, including breast size and shape. The My Necessity Multifit Bra is perfect for the third trimester and postpartum period. It's designed with stretchy fabric that accommodates changes in breast size and provides light support for sleeping and lounging.
   

2. Nursing Sports Bras: If you're an active mom-to-be, you'll want a nursing sports bra that provides support and comfort during physical activity - especially if you've signed up for your first postpartum class. The Joyleta Bella Nursing Sports Bra is designed in Canada and getting fantastic feedback from our customers. We also have a few Cadenshae bras which have been loved for their compressive compressive design that minimizes bounce and discomfort during exercise while allowing for easy access for breastfeeding.
   
   

3. Lounge Bras: For those days when you're lounging around the house, the Sublime Adjustable Crossover Lounge Bra from Kindred Bravlery is a great choice. It's made with soft, stretchy fabric and has a crossover design that provides support without the need for underwire. The My Necessity Multifit Bra is another fantastic choice in this category. 

4. Everyday Nursing Bras: The Lunar Eclipse Nursing Bra from Hotmilk and the True Luxe Multifit Plunge Nursing Bra from Nest & Sprout are both excellent options for everyday wear. They offer a comfortable fit, easy access for breastfeeding, and are designed with cute and stylish details.
   
   In store, the Lunar Eclipse gets a bad reputation for being boring....  and it is a boring bra, but it's a fantastic staple in your wardrobe and can really offer that all day everyday comfort during your breastfeeding journey.
   
   
   We recommend transitioning into a sized band around 6-12 weeks, when you feel your body's settled, and you're starting to look for more support in your bra's. 

5. FlexiWire Nursing Bras: The Temptation Nursing Bra is designed with flexi-wire technology that provides support and lift without the discomfort of a traditional underwire. It's a great choice for moms who want the shaping and support of an underwire bra without the discomfort.
   
   The Flexiwire bra is a fantastic choices for women with larger breasts looking for additional support. However, while the flexiwire is designed for nursing moms, it's best to wait a few weeks postpartum before transitioning into this bra. 
   

6. Wirefree Nursing Bras: If you're looking for a wirefree nursing bra, the Elevate Cotton Shell Marle T-Shirt Bra is a great option. It's designed with a wirefree design that provides comfort and support for everyday wear. We do see women shift into this bra during the third trimester, but the warning being your body may change and we can't guarantee it'll continue to fit postpartum.
   
   
   
   

Ordering a Nursing Bra from Nest & Sprout

At Nest & Sprout we primarily carry collection of Hot Milk Lingerie bra's. A few other fantastic brands can be found in our nursing bra collection including Kindred Braverly and Joyleta. These brands have been loved by our parenting community!

We regularly restock, and you can send us a message if you need us to custom order a product, colour, or size from Hot Milk. We encourage you to check out Hot Milk directly for a full range of products. Don't forget to check out their amazing quiz to help you find the right bra. 

While we are not able to offer free return shipping at Nest & Sprout, we do want to work with you to ensure you find the right product and fit. Contact us if you have any questions, concerns or curiosities and again - measure yourself, check out the Hot Milk sizing quiz, and see how Nest & Sprout can help you find the right bra today!