Size Changes in Pregnancy and Nursing
Something to anticipate during and after pregnancy are the many changes that will affect your body and subsequently, your boobs. You will most likely experience fluctuations in your breasts and rib cage, which is why it’s important to understand how to size yourself so that you’re wearing a bra that’s comfortable and supportive in each stage. Let's walk you through what to expect as we look at a pre-pregnancy size of 36C as an example.
3 Months Pregnant
(First Trimester)
At the 3-month mark, you'll start noticing changes to your body. Your breasts and ribs may start to feel pronounced and your 36C may feel a bit tight. What’s happening is you're growing out of your existing size and on your way to becoming a 38D. Look for a maternity bra that has stretch in both the cup and the band to accommodate the growth.
6 Months Pregnant
(Second Trimester)
At 6 months pregnant, you're not only glowing, but your belly is more pronounced, and your breasts and rib cage are bigger. In our example of starting out as a 36C, you’ve now grown to a 38D.
9 Months Pregnant
(Third Trimester)
At 9 months pregnant you're radiant, and almost ready to deliver. Your breasts may begin to feel a bit puffy and tender the last few weeks, and your ribs may feel very pushed out. You are closer to a 38DD/E now, but not for long!
3 to 4 Days After Birth
(Post-Natal)
It's now been a few days since you've given birth. You've started breastfeeding, but today your breasts are significantly fuller, firmer and heavier because of engorgement, meaning your milk is coming in. You've increased another size in the cup (to a DDD/F or more) but feel relief in your rib cage now that the baby is born.
In A Breastfeeding Rhythm
(2+ Months)
You and baby are happily working on your breastfeeding relationship. Around 10 to 12 weeks after birth, your breasts have relaxed in size and weight, and you could easily wear a 36DD/E. You’ve established a comfortable routine and you’re now on-the-go more often.
Bras for Pregnancy
To accommodate all the growth that you experience in pregnancy, look for bras that are soft in the cup and stretchy in the band. We recommend styles such as Original Nursing Bra, Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra and Ballet Nursing Bra. These styles are not only great for pregnancy but can transition with you into nursing as well.
Bras for Nursing
For all the fluctuations your breasts will go through when you start breastfeeding, some comfortable options are Original Nursing Bra and Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra, as they can adapt to your size. If you’re looking for a bra to wear to bed, the Ballet Nursing Bra has a soft fabric and smooth back that’s ideal for sleeping. When you’re out and about, we recommend the Body Silk Seamless Rhythm Nursing Sports Bra for low-impact activity and the Classic Nursing Cami to keep up with you.
Calculate your bra size with the help of our How to Size guide.
