Underwire Nursing Bras

The advantages and disadvantages of underwire nursing bras

In your quest for the perfect nursing bra, you have probably heard a lot about underwire nursing bras. While some people rave about them, others recommend avoiding them, leaving you absolutely confused.

To help eliminate any confusion, here is a closer look at some of the disadvantages and advantages that come with underwire nursing bras. In the end, your decision should be based on what will ultimately make your breastfeeding experience comfortable and positive.

The disadvantages
Here are some disadvantages of underwire nursing bras to consider before you decide.

• Underwire nursing bras should not be slept in. Just like traditional underwire bras, it is recommended that women avoid sleeping in a nursing bra that has an underwire. This is an important factor for new moms to consider since many women prefer having some sort of support throughout the night.
• Wearing them could lead to blocked milk ducts or mastitis. If the underwire puts too much pressure on the breast, or more specifically, a milk duct, it could cause blocked ducts or mastitis. It's important to note, that this can be avoided by only selecting underwire nursing bras that fit properly.

The advantages
While there are many women that prefer softcup nursing bras, there are just as many women that enjoy underwire nursing bras.

• Superior support: Underwire nursing bras provide undoubtedly the most support compared to any of the other types available. This is especially important for women with larger breasts.
• Familiarity: The option of an underwire nursing bra is very attractive to women who wore bras with underwires prior to pregnancy simply because that's what they are familiar with and prefer.

How to decide?
Now that you have more information on underwire nursing bras, you can make an informed decision. Besides carefully considering each aspect and speaking to your doctor or a lactation consultant, the best way to decide is simply to try several underwire nursing bras on and compare them to softcups.

Article Source : http://www.nursingbras.com/underwirenursingbras/

Nursing Bras Are Important

Nursing your new born baby is the most important thing you can do for your child. The milk you provide is the exact formula he will need to stay healthy and grow. This is something you don't get when you formula feed your newborn.

Some women find it hard to nurse and this could be due to the wrong nursing bra. It's also possible she is wearing a regular bra instead of a nursing bra. This is not good especially for new moms. The experience should be pleasant and comfortable, but it's not when your bra doesn't work properly.

The first time you get a nursing bra, you really should consider going to a maternity store. They will have the ability to measure you correctly and they will also have the knowledge to know what size you should go with to have the perfect fit. Once you are fitted you will be able to purchase your next nursing bra at a clothing store. You should consider being measured with each pregnancy because your body can change.

Nursing bras come in many different styles. You need to be comfortable with your bra so you need to decide what will work best for you. Consider the style you wore before you got pregnant. If you wore an underwire before, you may want to go with an underwire now. Most of the time the cup itself will have a latch of some sort that will easily come apart when it's time to nurse. Not only will this make it easier for you to feed in public, but it will also make it a quicker process.

When you purchase your nursing bra you will want to purchase at least two but three or four would be better. There are several reasons for this. When you are nursing there are times where you will leak a small amount of milk. This will dry on your bra and make it hard and not comfortable to wear. Another reason why you will want more than one is the baby may be a little messy or spit up a little and it may get on your bra. You need to remember that it's important that you are comfortable and wearing a wet bra is not very comfortable.

One way to prevent your bra from getting wet from a leak is to wear nursing pads. You can get these at any grocery store and you will be happy you did. The pad will absorb the leak and it will not get on your bra. I suggest carrying at least two sets in a plastic bag in your purse. It may also be a good idea to put two sets in your diaper bag. You never know when you will have an accident.

Nursing your baby is so important for his health and it's good for your health as well. Purchasing a nursing bra will make nursing so much easier. It will be one of the best investments you will make.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cerise_Nichol

There's No Good Time to Buy a Nursing Bra and Ten Other Tips For Expectant Moms

There's no good time to buy a nursing bra. Ideally, you'll get the best fit once your milk comes in one or two days after the baby is born but you'll be too busy/tired to shop then. Go shopping in the last trimester and make your best guess. If it's a close call, buy a little bigger. Sports bra style nursing bras are nice because there are no tricky snaps or hooks plus they fit variety of sizes. If you have one or two that you like before the baby comes, you can shop for more later on.

1. Breast fed babies may need TriViSol for vitamin D. You can buy it OTC or get a prescription from the pediatrician.

2. Decide who you will have for a pediatrician before the baby is born. Someone from the practice should visit your child in the hospital.

3. Make sure adults who will be around the newborn get updated booster shots.

4. Set the water heater in your house to 120 degrees. Infants can be scalded in a matter of seconds.

5. This winter retest your radon. Babies are more susceptible to radon.

6. Check the places you like to go: movies, restaurants and stores to see whether their restrooms have changing tables.

7. You don't need an expensive high chair. They take up a lot of room. The ones that strap to a dining room chair convert from a reclining seat for an infant to an upright position.

8. Get some night lights if you don't have them. You don't want to fumble in the dark for night time feedings and you certainly don't want bright overhead lights on.

9. Things you probably won't need--bottle warmer; bottle sterilizer.

10. How to get yellow infant poop out of clothing. Dawn direct, an old toothbrush and HOT water.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lara_Dolphin

Nursing Bra Information For Breastfeeding Mothers

If you're planning on breastfeeding your child you'll need to think about purchasing some nursing bras. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the best option to make breastfeeding your baby as enjoyable as possible.

There are five main types of nursing bras you can buy. Which one you choose will be down to personal preference. The ones listed below all have different ways of allowing a mother to breastfeed her child. So before you buy take a read and decide which type would be more convenient for you.

Like some conventional bras, one type of nursing bra fastens between the cups at the front. This type is easy to open but perhaps a little to indiscreet for some mother.

Another type of nursing bra consists of zips, which sit under each cup. The advantage with this bra is that it quite discreet and easy to open and close. The zip-line can show through if the mother is wearing a tight fitting top.

The third type has a fastening (or small button) on the shoulder strap just above the cup, which can easily be unfastened to allow the cup down. Ensure you buy one that exposes the whole of the breast and not just the nipple, because the bra fabric left pressing on the breast may cause the blocked milk ducts. Again, the primary advantage of this bra is ease of use.

You can buy nursing bras made from a stretchy material. This is simple to use; you just pull the cup over the breast.

Finally, nighttime nursing bras are usually lighter in weight so as to make sleeping more comfortable. Instead of the usual ways of opening for feeding, this type of bra might have a crossover front design so you can just slip your breast out.

Don't purchase your bra too early in your pregnancy. Buy during the last month, as your breasts will be nearing their full size prior to breastfeeding your baby.

Buy as many bras as you can afford and also the best quality you can afford. You don't necessarily need one for each day of the week but remember that you will be producing a lot of milk and will suffer from leaky breasts, so you will need to wash your nursing bras frequently.

It is important to buy the best quality you can afford. The main things to look out for are: cotton bras, as they will help keep you nipple cool and dry; good, wide straps that are going to give you lots of support, your breasts are going to enlarge and get a lot heaver so support is vital; test the fastening of the bra making sure that it unfastens and refastens easily; the fastenings should not dig into you; Above all, make sure the bra is a good fit. Not only does a bad fitting bra feel uncomfortable and not provide support, it may even interfere with milk production.

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Nursing Bra Tanks Are a Necessity For Breastfeeding Mothers

In today's tough economic times, you don't want to go spending money endlessly on nursing bras and essentials that may not fit you in a few month's time. However, if you do plan to nurse your baby, you definitely need some nursing bras, camis and tops to get you by. You also need the proper fit and comfort level so that you don't get infections such as mastitis. Bravado is an excellent brand to get you through the early weeks of your first nursing bra postpartum, as well as through the later months with some of their more stylish bras and tanks.

Your First Nursing Bra:
Bravado's Original Nursing Bra has been a bestseller for years to moms around the world. This bra is super comfortable with a cotton/spandex blend fabric which will stretch and mold to your changing breast shape all day. This bra does not have any underwires and the fabric can stretch and contract without becoming too tight if your breast are engorged. You can even sleep in this bra with the T-shirt fit back and no hooks or closures. This bra will give you 24 hour comfort and support.

The Original Nursing bra is available in 4 band sizes and 3 cup sizes from a 32 B to 46G. Each size can fit up to 2 cup size variations and 3 band size variations, which makes it an excellent investment for your first month or two of nursing when your size is fluctuating by the minute and your risk of engorgement and mastitis is highest.

The Bravado Nursing Bra Tank:
Bravado's Essential Nursing Bra tank is must-have to your maternity and nursing wardrobe. This extra long tank with a built in full nursing bra is long and stretchy enough to be worn for most of your pregnancy. The extra length is welcome postpartum for full belly coverage. This nursing tank has pretty ruching across the bust and gives an excellent fit and support and shaping of your bust. It's stylish enough to wear alone or dress up with a jacket or blazer for going out or office wear. It's also great as a layering item in colder weather.

Most women who buy one of these come back to buy more in other colors, so stock up! Many women wear one of these tanks nearly everyday of the week. The fabric is very durable and stretchy while retaining it's shape after washing. Features in this bra tank include:

• A molded seamless bra, not just a shelf bra, that provides excellent support and shaping up now to an F/G cup. The sizing allows 2 cup size fluctuations as the fabric can stretch and contract while still offering excellent support. Many women wear this tank as an exercise bra as it does provide safe support.
• A bra lined with Bravado! CottonFlexTM fabric. This revolutionary double-sided fabric offers the comfort of cotton and the benefits of polyester/spandex. The result is 100% cotton against the skin giving comfort and breath ability, without sacrificing flexibility, support and shape.
• Beautiful, soft and strong cotton/spandex outer fabric that isn't see-through even in white! In fact white is the best selling color year-round.
• Subtle nursing clips on each side that allow for full breastfeeding access.
• Thin and cushioned straps that are easy to adjust.
• A beautiful and flattering shape that is fitted but not clingy, with a hip length that doesn't ride up.
• Design elements such as a subtle front gathering and satin trim, making it a stylish and versatile wardrobe item must-have and excellent for layering or dressing up.

With all of these design elements and dual bra and tank benefits, The Essential Nursing Bra Tank is designed to really get you your money's worth during pregnancy, nursing, and transition wardrobe occasions.

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Proper Bra Sizing: What Every Woman Should Know

Most women do not wear the correct bra size. With monthly water
retention cycles, dieting, and general aging, it also should not be assumed that
the size you were two years ago is the same size you are today (or that a bra
can be worn that long, for that matter). Even a change of 5 pounds can
change your bra size. This guide will help you to properly measure your
bust, so that you can find the size for you.
While most shops will have a salesperson to assist you in proper
measurements, in order to buy sexy lingerie from a catalog, it is important to
know your size.
How To Know If Your Current Bra Does Not Fit
The back rides up. This may mean that the cups are too small, or the
band is too tight. The front of the band is too tight to get a finger under
it. This means you need a larger band.
The bra cups should be entirely filled, or you may need a smaller cup.
If, on the other hand, the cups are overflowing, you may need a larger cup or a
different style of bra.
If the underwire digs in, you may need a larger cup size. (Or your bra
could just be very old. In either case, it's time to replace it.)
This could also be an indication that the side wings of the bra are not large
enough.

Proper Measurements
First, you will need three measurements: under bust, upper bust, and full
bust. For under the bust, measure directly under your bust. With all
measurements, hold the tape secure but not too tight. For the upper bust,
measure above the bust and below the arms.
If the difference between the under and upper bust is less than two inches,
the under bust is your band size (round up to nearest even number). If the
difference is more than two inches, add 2-3" to the under bust measurement to
get an even number and use this as your band size. For the full bust, measure
around a fullest part of your breast. Make sure the tape is secure around
the back.
Your cup size is determined by your full bust measurement - your upper bust
measurement. If the difference is less than 1", you are a AA, 1" is an A,
2" is a B, 3" is a C, 4" is a D, 5" is a DD (or an E), etc.
Beyond Measurements
Of course, your measurements are just the beginning. There are other
things to keep in mind when looking for a comfortable, yet sexy bra.
When trying on different bras, make sure that the area in between the two
cups actually comes into contact with your chest. Do not make the straps
support your breast alone! This will be very uncomfortable over long
periods of time, the bra will wear out quickly, and the pressure on the straps
can cause back problems.
If you are finding the band sizes to differ for a different brand, you may
also need to change your cup size. Generally, as you decrease the band
size, you will need to increase your cup size, while a larger band will call for
a smaller cup.

Bra Styles
Different styles of bras have different fits. Beware the convertible
bras: while they may sometimes work, it is rare that every possible style will
work for your body.

• Full Cup / Full Coverage - Designed for support, these bras cover the entire breast.
  
• Half Cup / Demi Cup - These bras cover 75 percent of the breast. This is a sexy cut that increases cleavage, but make sure your breasts are not "cut-off" in the center. Your profile should still be smooth, and if it isn't, you need a larger cup size.
  
• Underwire Bras - These bras give the most support.
  
• Racerback Bras - These bras have a crossover pattern in the back. They can have a front or back clasp, or can simply pull over the head. This is a common style for a sports bra.
  
• Halter-Top Bras - As the name imply, these bras have a strap that loops around the neck, rather than the usual shoulder straps. These bras can increase cleavage, and can be worn with both halter tops and tops with low center coverage.
  
• Backless Bras - While some backless bras literally have only front coverage, generally this refers to bras with extremely low backs, so that many dresses with low backs can be worn without the bra showing.
  
• Strapless Bras - These bras have no straps at all, only the band. Some of these can cover the stomach area as well, and some even cover the body like a leotard. These longer strapless bras tend to stay in place better.
  
• Padded Bras / Push-Up Bras - These bras have extra padding in the cups in order to give the illusion of a larger breast and/or to increase the cleavage. The padding can be made of the same material as the bra, foam, or gel. Gel is becoming more popular because of its more natural look. In some bras, the padding is removable.
  
• Décolleté - These bras are lower cut than a demi bra, allowing you to wear something even lower cut without revealing your bra.
  
• Light-Support Bras - These bras have no underwire. While you may be tempted to wear one to an all-day event, if you are larger than an A cup, you may not be getting the support you need. A properly fitted bra will be comfortable whether or not it has underwire.
  
• Sports Bra - These bras are designed to minimize bouncing during athletic activity. While some inexpensive varieties do this by squishing your breasts, it is better to find on that is sized by cup sizes (as opposed to small, medium, and large) and get fitted as you would with a regular bra. Over the long term, this will increase your comfort.
  
• Nursing Bras - For the convenience of nursing mothers, these bras have a snap on each of the shoulder straps, so she can easily remove them to feed the baby without taking off the entire bra. Generally, nursing bras are full-coverage for the added support a new mother needs.

Now you can order all your intimate apparel with confidence! So next
time you find the perfect little black dress, you can be sure you will look your
best.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Valentine

Top Tips on Choosing a Nursing Bra

Once you've made the decision to breastfeed you will need a couple of essentials that will aid you in the process. One of the must haves is a good nursing bra. Choosing a well fitting nursing bra can help you avoid mastitis and make nursing in public easier. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect one.

1. Choose a bra with flaps can be opened with one hand. What can be more frustrating than trying to hold your hungry baby while struggling with your bra? Choose a style that makes this easier for you. Try on the bra is possible to see if you can open it quickly and easily with one hand. If not, skip it. Some nursing bra styles feature stretchy cups that merely move to the side. These are great for nighttime use.

2. The bra should fit comfortably. Wearing a bra that is too tight can leave you vulnerable to plugged ducts and mastitis. For your comfort, and to minimize this risk, choose soft cup styles. If you are large busted, use wider shoulder straps. Keep in mind that your breasts will get larger a week postpartum when your milk supply increases. Then after a few weeks, you may be able to go back to the size you wore in your last weeks of pregnancy.

3. Get at least three bras. You will want on to wear, one that can be on standby and one that you'll obviously be washing. This way you never are totally without.

4. Buy a bra with breathable fabric. If your breasts remain too moist this may cause a yeast infection of the breast (called thrush). Therefore you want a bra that will allow airflow and minimize moisture. Avoid plastic backed nursing pads for this reason. Cotton is more comfortable and looks more natural, and can be washed and reused.

These tips should help you to find a nursing bra that is perfect while you're breastfeeding your little one. Having the right bra can enhance your breastfeeding experience.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carrie_Lauth

Breastfeeding and Choosing the Right Nursing Bra For You

Breastfeeding is one of the most difficult tasks of a new mother. Unlike what you see in television ads, breastfeeding is not that joyous and easy to do. The process takes a lot of practice and with the right materials to use so as to feed your newborn the best way possible.

In order to help out mothers, nursing bras have been invented in hopes of making breastfeeding easier and lighter for mothers and babies. A nursing bra is unlike the traditional bras that women wear as undergarments. These are adjustable bras that can compliment the breast size of the woman and give the much needed support when carrying a child. As with all other bras used by women, these also have specific lines that allow pad insertions so as not to irritate the nipples or the areola. If you are currently finding a way to get the best nursing bra for you, you have come to the right place.

When purchasing your first bra for breastfeeding, make sure that you do this in the middle of pregnancy or later. Normal bras used by women can still be used so long as you still feel comfortable using them. As mentioned, a nursing bra also has designated cup sizes, therefore you must choose the right size for you. Not having the right cup size for your bra will make you feel more uncomfortable when breastfeeding. Ideally, nursing bras should be made with quality stretchable material in order to shape the size of the woman's breasts. Ensuring that you have a bra that is easy to wear and use for everyday will simply make your purchase even more worth it.

Usually, a nursing bra can be opened easily by just one hand. The hook and eye is specifically sewn on reachable dimensions so as to make it easier for the woman wearing it. If you find yourself having a hard time unhooking your new nursing bra, then it is probable that you got the wrong bra for you. Remember that a nursing bra is supposed to make your life easier during and after pregnancy, which is why you must know how to get the perfect fit for you. This should provide you the most suitable support system for your breasts so as to lessen the causes of back strain and other physical problems while you are on your way to becoming a new mother.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Courtney_Woodall

4 Suggestions For Nursing Tops

Nursing often is a daunting idea for new and expectant mothers, and the last thing you want to worry about are your clothes. You need something practical and functional yet that still maintains your sense of style. Luckily, today's selection of nursing tops is made with comfort, function, and fashion in mind. Check out the different styles available and you and find effortlessly stylish clothes!

1) A nursing bra tank is an essential top for nursing mothers. Great for the warmer months, layering, or wearing around the house, a nursing bra tank is comfortable and stylish. These tops consist of a built in bra, often seamless to provide extra comfort, and discreet nursing clips which allow for full nursing access. Try the Bravado Nursing Bra Tank: I love pairing it with a cute blazer or cardigan and my favorite jeans for an effortlessly stylish look.

2) Another great nursing top style is the crossover top. This style provides easy and discreet nursing access by simply lifting up one of the crossover layers. Equally fashionable as they are practical, the crossover tops are very figure flattering. Find one made in a soft, stretch material, and you will see that it accentuates the smallest part of your body. Try Japanese Weekend's Jersey Crossover Maternity/Nursing Top for a functional and fashionable addition to your wardrobe. Looks great paired with jeans or skirts, and works for daily errands, the office, or an evening out. You will continue wearing it long after you have stopped nursing!

3) As fall approaches, a nursing top made for cooler weather is a necessary addition to your wardrobe. Look for a light sweater layered over a tank which will provide discreet nursing access while adding a finishing touch to your look. Maternal America makes two great sweater/top combos: the Maternity/Nursing Cami-Cardigan and the ¾ Sleeve Maternity/Nursing Top. Both of these combine a front button or tie sweater over a tank, providing easy nursing access. These tops work wonderfully for nursing moms, yet can easily be worn long after you have stopped nursing.

4) For a figure flattering nursing top option, I love an empire-waist top. There are many different options out there from a variety of designers. For discreet nursing access, many are designed with a built in tank or with an easy, front-lift top. All have in common, however, the empire waist, which accentuates directly under your bust. Figure flattering and practical, this fashionable style is great for nursing and beyond. Maternal America's Cotton Maternity/Nursing Top looks great with jeans and 1 in the Oven's Maternity/Nursing Shirred Tube Top is a great spring and summer look.

When shopping for nursing tops keep your comfort and ease in mind. Although it can be daunting, there are many great options to choose from. Look for soft fabrics, flattering styles, and easy and discreet nursing access. The maternity designers today strive to put your needs first, and the fashionable and stylish options available are practical and functional. If you feel great, your whole day will seem more relaxing!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kyra_Demartini