<\/p>\n
So, how do we get around this when our breast size is changing, our ribcage is expanding and compressing and then our boobs are heavier and need more support than ever? Why is it so important that my bra fits when I\u2019m pregnant or breastfeeding?<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Conception:\u00a0 <\/strong>(1st Trimester) <\/strong><\/h2>\n\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\nOne of the first signs that you\u2019re pregnant can be tender breasts, sensitive nipples, and feeling the weight of them more when you walk.<\/p>\n
\u00a0 ![\"Couple](\"https:\/\/birthyoudesire.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-19-at-9.48.35-AM-300x199.png\")
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via <\/em>@priscilladupreez (Unsplash)<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
In the first trimester, we recommend you don\u2019t wear wires or restrictive cup bras. Opt for a seamless bra that will be comfortable, allow for your breasts to increase in size, without restriction, and also be supportive. These bras are usually sized XS-XL, with each size fitting a number of cup sizes. In saying that it\u2019s not one size fits all.<\/p>\n
![\"Maternity](\"https:\/\/birthyoudesire.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-19-at-9.54.18-AM-300x214.png\")
<\/p>\n
Via Cake Maternity:\u00a0 Tutti Frutti and Lotus <\/em><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\nLook for a seamless bra<\/a> with the following qualities:<\/p>\n\n- Made from high-density yarns with at least 8% elastane (this is the stuff that lets you fluctuate and allows your bra to return to normal).<\/li>\n
- Molded cups for depth. Avoid those that aren\u2019t as they will only flatten and squash your breasts.<\/li>\n
- It fits you when you are at your smallest and has enough room to accommodate your potential fluctuations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Belly growing\/body growing: <\/strong>(2nd\u20143rd Trimester) <\/strong><\/h2>\n <\/p>\n
During the second and third trimesters, your breasts settle down a bit. You may, however, require a different-sized bra due to the expansion of your ribcage. For this reason, good-quality maternity and nursing bras have 6 hooks and eyes to allow for this expansion.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Because your cup size remains relatively stable, it\u2019s okay to go into a flexible wired bra<\/a> or one that\u2019s more cup specific. This way you\u2019ll feel more appropriately supported.<\/p>\n![\"Image](\"https:\/\/birthyoudesire.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-19-at-9.56.12-AM-300x200.png\")
<\/p>\n
Via Cake Maternity:\u00a0 Truffles Bra and Brief <\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
In case you get confused about what hook and eye to fit on, here\u2019s an approximate reference:<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
![\"Bra](\"https:\/\/birthyoudesire.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-19-at-9.57.04-AM-300x240.png\")
<\/p>\n
Via Cake Maternity:\u00a0 Fitting Archives<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Pro tip \u2014 around 80% of women will be the same cup size at 8 months pregnant as they will be after 6-8 weeks of breastfeeding.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
When the milk comes in:\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>(4th Trimester)<\/strong><\/h2>\n <\/p>\n
In the fourth trimester (when you’ve had your baby and your milk is about to come in) your breasts may increase up to 5 cup sizes and fluctuate many times during the day when you\u2019re feeding. Not only are they a lot bigger, but they are a lot heavier. It’s important that your bra not only fits you through these crazy days but also supports you. You don’t want to be busting out the top of it, but if it\u2019s too big it won’t support you at all.<\/p>\n
![\"Nursing](\"https:\/\/birthyoudesire.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-19-at-9.57.38-AM-300x200.png\")
<\/p>\n
Via Cake Maternity:\u00a0 Sugar Candy Seamless nursing bra in Blush<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
When your breasts are developing as a preteen, your ligaments have time to gradually increase in strength and be supportive without a bra. When you are breastfeeding, there is relatively no time at all. Your ligaments will be shocked by the extra weight and size. If your ligaments are damaged, then this ultimately means sag. Support them through this stage with a supportive seamless bra and your breasts will thank you.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
After the storm:\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>(6-8 weeks postpartum)<\/strong><\/h2>\n <\/p>\n
After approximately 6-8 weeks postpartum, or when everything is settling down, your milk production will regulate and you\u2019ll be able to go into a flexible wired bra again or a more cup-specific bra.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
What to look for in fit and why:<\/p>\n
\n- Top cup stretch \u2014 to allow your bust to grow with fluctuations.<\/li>\n
- Firm underband \u2014 the majority of support comes from your back band so look for a durable and supportive one.<\/li>\n
- Short stretch straps (say that quickly\u2026) \u2014 the firmer and less stretchy your straps are, the more supportive they will be. Look for nice wide ones, too, if you\u2019re not concerned about tank top shows.<\/li>\n
- Supportive lower cup \u2014 the less stretch in this area the more your breasts will be supported.<\/li>\n
- Double layer \u2014 where possible, go for double layers. This will mean your bra is extremely well-made, durable, and will most likely stand the test of time.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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Whatever stage you are through your pregnancy<\/a> or breastfeeding journey, you can count on Cake Maternity to have something to support you, fit you, and make you comfortable. Whatever your size, style or stage, we\u2019ve got you covered.<\/p>\n———–<\/p>\n
![\"woman\"](\"https:\/\/birthyoudesire.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-19-at-9.58.15-AM-200x300.png\")
<\/p>\n
One of the first signs that you\u2019re pregnant can be tender breasts, sensitive nipples, and feeling the weight of them more when you walk.<\/p>\n
\u00a0 <\/p>\n
via <\/em>@priscilladupreez (Unsplash)<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n In the first trimester, we recommend you don\u2019t wear wires or restrictive cup bras. Opt for a seamless bra that will be comfortable, allow for your breasts to increase in size, without restriction, and also be supportive. These bras are usually sized XS-XL, with each size fitting a number of cup sizes. In saying that it\u2019s not one size fits all.<\/p>\n Via Cake Maternity:\u00a0 Tutti Frutti and Lotus <\/em><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Look for a seamless bra<\/a> with the following qualities:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n During the second and third trimesters, your breasts settle down a bit. You may, however, require a different-sized bra due to the expansion of your ribcage. For this reason, good-quality maternity and nursing bras have 6 hooks and eyes to allow for this expansion.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Because your cup size remains relatively stable, it\u2019s okay to go into a flexible wired bra<\/a> or one that\u2019s more cup specific. This way you\u2019ll feel more appropriately supported.<\/p>\n Via Cake Maternity:\u00a0 Truffles Bra and Brief <\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n In case you get confused about what hook and eye to fit on, here\u2019s an approximate reference:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Via Cake Maternity:\u00a0 Fitting Archives<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Pro tip \u2014 around 80% of women will be the same cup size at 8 months pregnant as they will be after 6-8 weeks of breastfeeding.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n In the fourth trimester (when you’ve had your baby and your milk is about to come in) your breasts may increase up to 5 cup sizes and fluctuate many times during the day when you\u2019re feeding. Not only are they a lot bigger, but they are a lot heavier. It’s important that your bra not only fits you through these crazy days but also supports you. You don’t want to be busting out the top of it, but if it\u2019s too big it won’t support you at all.<\/p>\n Via Cake Maternity:\u00a0 Sugar Candy Seamless nursing bra in Blush<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n When your breasts are developing as a preteen, your ligaments have time to gradually increase in strength and be supportive without a bra. When you are breastfeeding, there is relatively no time at all. Your ligaments will be shocked by the extra weight and size. If your ligaments are damaged, then this ultimately means sag. Support them through this stage with a supportive seamless bra and your breasts will thank you.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n After approximately 6-8 weeks postpartum, or when everything is settling down, your milk production will regulate and you\u2019ll be able to go into a flexible wired bra again or a more cup-specific bra.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What to look for in fit and why:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Whatever stage you are through your pregnancy<\/a> or breastfeeding journey, you can count on Cake Maternity to have something to support you, fit you, and make you comfortable. Whatever your size, style or stage, we\u2019ve got you covered.<\/p>\n ———–<\/p>\n<\/p>\n\n
Belly growing\/body growing: <\/strong>(2nd\u20143rd Trimester) <\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nWhen the milk comes in:\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>(4th Trimester)<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/p>\nAfter the storm:\u00a0 \u00a0<\/strong>(6-8 weeks postpartum)<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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