How to Find Plus Size Nursing Bras

When you're a breastfeeding mom with large breasts, it can sometimes be difficult to find the right nursing bra for you. You want your plus-size nursing bras to be comfortable, fit properly, be easy to use when nursing in public and to last at least until you're ready to wean your baby. Another key to finding the "perfect" plus size nursing bra is finding one that has good support, with straps that won't cut into your shoulders from the extra weight of your milk-producing breasts, notes La Leche League International.

Things You'll Need

  • Cloth measuring tape

Instructions

    • 1

      Wait until the last few weeks of your pregnancy or after you begin nursing to get an idea of what size your breasts will be while you're breastfeeding. Your breasts will generally increase in size throughout your pregnancy, according to WomensHealth.gov. Only buy one nursing bra before you have your baby, since your breasts can once again change in size as you begin breastfeeding your baby.

    • 2

      Visit a bra store or maternity store in your area and ask to be properly measured for a plus-size nursing bra. It's important that your bra fit your large breasts well, because an improperly fitting nursing bra can cause pressure on the breasts, constricting them and possibly causing plugged ducts. This can lead to an infection in the duct.

    • 3

      Measure yourself if there's not a place to get professionally measured in your area, advises the La Leche League International. Put on an unpadded regular bra that fits you well and measure high up under your arms and around the top of your breasts to get your chest size. Round that number up to the next even number, and this will be your nursing bra band size. Pull the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust. Subtract your band size from this measurement. Use this number to get your cup size. For example, with a difference of 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 inches, plan for a D cup. If there is a difference of 5 to 6 inches, your cup size will be DD/E cup, and if the difference is 6 to 7 inches, you're a DDD/F cup. If there is a 7 to 8 inches difference, this makes you a G cup, and if the difference is 8 to 9 inches, you're an H cup.

    • 4

      Take your nursing bra size and head to your area department stores to see if they carry plus-size nursing bras. If you find some in your size, try them on to see how they fit and feel, suggests ConsumerReports.org. Regardless of what size you think you are, purchase the size that feels the most comfortable.

    • 5

      Order your plus size nursing bras online if you can't find them in the stores nearby. You'll find a larger selection and usually can get better deals on plus-size nursing bras online. Read reviews if they're available, to see what other nursing moms thought about these nursing bras.

    • 6

      Talk with your lactation consultant about purchasing your plus-size nursing bras. Ask about what to look for in a nursing bra and for recommendations about where to purchase one locally. If you don't have a lactation consultant, you can usually find one at the birth center or hospital where you're having your baby.

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