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21 Best Maternity Bras of 2024

Updated
Here’s to keeping our girls happy!

When you’re pregnant, you need to support the girls. Yes, those girls. But it can be challenging to find a maternity bra that will fit throughout your pregnancy (and beyond).

Few stores carry maternity bras you can try on, and the stores that do often have limited choices. Most moms resort to shopping online, but bras can be pricey, and not all maternity bras are created equal. So how do you know which brand to trust and which maternity bras are best?

We’re here to solve that problem for you. Our team of moms tested countless hooter holders in a wide range of styles to find the best maternity bras to support your growing bosoms and prevent post-pregnancy sagging.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Hofish Full Bust
Best Budget
Hofish Full Bust
  • One-hand access
  • Adjustable shoulder straps
  • Seamless
Product Image of the Kindred Bravely Simply
Best for Large Breasts
Kindred Bravely Simply
  • Ultra soft fabric
  • Hook and eye closure
  • Doubles as a nursing bra
Product Image of the Kindred Braverly Terry
Easy Breezy
Kindred Braverly Terry
  • Perfect for day & night wear
  • Super comfy fabric
  • Breastfeeding access
Product Image of the Bravado! Designs Seamless
Ultimate Skin-to-Skin
Bravado! Designs Seamless
  • Mom's Choice Award winner
  • Molded cups
  • 4-way stretch fabric
Product Image of the Mothers en Vogue
Best for Small Breasts
Mothers en Vogue
  • Removable molded padding
  • Designed for A-C cup sizes
  • No underwire
Product Image of the Gratlin Women's Support
Completely Natural Feel
Gratlin Women's Support
  • Luxuriously soft smooth fabric
  • Removable molded cups
  • Tightly knitted underband
Product Image of the Gratlin Women's Lace
Sexy Support
Gratlin Women's Lace
  • 100% cotton
  • Wire-free bra
  • Great support
Product Image of the Curve Muse Plus Size
Practical Plus Size Support
Curve Muse Plus Size
  • Hook and eye closure
  • Breathable mesh
  • Enhances bust figure
Product Image of the Bamboobies Seamless
Most Versatile
Bamboobies Seamless
  • Ultra-soft rayon
  • Seamless design
  • Easy-access breastfeeding
Product Image of the EMY Sleep Bra 4 Pack
Outrageously Soft
EMY Sleep Bra 4 Pack
  • Great elasticity
  • Cotton fabric
  • Easy to clean

Review Methodology: At Mom Loves Best, we understand the importance of finding the perfect maternity bra for expecting mothers. Our team of professionals conducts thorough research, analysis, and hands-on evaluation to provide you with the most reliable information. We compare various maternity bras based on criteria such as comfort, support, adjustability, and style, ranking each product based on performance and user experience. Our assessment also considers key decision-making factors like design choices, material quality, and price. By sharing our results and first-hand evidence, we help you make an informed decision to choose the best maternity bra that meets your unique needs and preferences.



The Best Maternity Bras of 2024

Here are some great maternity bras to consider.

Best Maternity Bras for Large Breasts

If you have large breasts, you know the havoc they can wreak on your back. Choose a bra that offers solid support in the shoulders and band. You’ve got enough back pain with your pregnancy; there’s no need for your chest to exacerbate the issue.

Kindred Braverly Simply Sublime Pregnancy Bra

Soft and Roomy

The elastic in this bra is stretchy enough to accommodate your changing body but firm enough to offer adequate support. With full-coverage cups and a wide band with three clasps, you can bet your girls will be secure in this bra.

Our Ratings

Support
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

I'm pleased with the support and comfort this nursing bra provides, although the strap adjuster being in the back makes self-adjustment a bit tricky. The ribbed portion under the breast occasionally rolls up and becomes bothersome, but the included bra extension helps with the fit.

Curve Muse Plus Size Maternity Bra

Pretty but Practical

While we don’t usually recommend an underwire bra for use during pregnancy, your choices may be limited if you have large breasts. Elastic cups aren’t always going to hold you in. The good news is that if you choose a properly-fitting bra without the underwire digging into your breast tissue, you should be fine wearing an underwire bra.
Pair this bra with a bra extender to ensure it doesn’t fit too tightly. This bra is supportive for large-chested women, and it’s super cute. And best of all, it comes in a three-pack, so you’ll always have a comfy, clean bra to wear.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Adjustability
3.5 / 5
Material
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

In my experience, these bras have been surprisingly impressive and comfortable. I bought two of them in 2019, and they're still holding up strong without any issues like underwires popping or straps stretching out. The stretch material is thicker than usual, which provides excellent support and shape throughout the day. One thing to note is that they run small, so I'd recommend ordering a size up. The price is unbeatable for the quality and comfort you get, making these bras an amazing find!

Bamboobies Seamless Pregnancy Bra

Racy Racerback

This bra fits sizes up to 42F, but it can be used on larger chests when combined with the included extender. It’s made of ultra-soft bamboo rayon and is supportive enough to be used during light exercise. It’s versatile and has nursing panels, so you’ll be able to continue using it after your baby arrives.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
5 / 5
Adjustability
4.5 / 5
Material
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

These nursing bras are incredibly soft and comfortable, making them perfect for wearing around the house. The material is stretchy, offering decent support and breathability, although the back clasps can be a bit tricky to maneuver. I found the racerback design to be flattering, preventing the dreaded uniboob look, but be aware that it can pull on the shoulders if you have larger breasts. It's important to follow the seller's size chart to get the perfect fit, as the sizing can be a bit different from other brands. I've tried multiple colors and styles of these bras, and they've held up well in the wash, making them a great addition to my nursing wardrobe.

Best Maternity Bras for Small Breasts

Small breasts pose their own unique challenges. You don’t want your bra cups gaping and causing an unflattering silhouette under your shirt. Choose a bra with appropriately-sized cups and well-fitting bands to ensure a good fit.

Mothers en Vogue Seamless Maternity Bralette

Low-Key Loveliness

This bra was designed specifically for small-breasted mamas, with cup sizes from A to C. It has a lower profile, so you can wear it under outfits without it peeking out of your shirt. Made of nylon, spandex, and cotton, this super-stretchy bra will adjust as your body and breasts change and can also double as a nursing bra after delivery.

Our Ratings

Support
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
4.5 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

For someone with a smaller bust, this nursing bra might not provide the perfect fit, as the molded inserts may leave a gap and offer limited support. Despite this, the bra is comfortable and the thin straps are a nice touch for those who dislike thick straps. The fasteners for nursing can be a bit tricky due to their small size, but the overall quality and durability are impressive. It's worth noting that taller individuals might find the straps too short and the bra too tight around the chest.

Gratlin Racerback Seamless Pregnacy Bra

Cosy Support

This bra will fit breasts as small as 32A. It has a densely knitted underband to prevent sagging even though there is no underwire, and the hook-and-eye closures allow for a custom fit even though the design resembles a sports bra. Finally, because it’s not padded, it will conform to your unique shape rather than trying to fit your uniquely sized breasts into a pre-molded form.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Best Plus Size Maternity Bras

If you’re a larger-bodied woman, you don’t want to buy a DD cup and call it good. You need a bra that properly supports your body and fits you well. Make sure you choose the proper cup and band size for a comfortable fit.

Motherhood Maternity Sports Wireless Maternity Bra

Sweet and Sporty

This bra is available from sizes 1x-3x and has elastic construction to allow for potential changes in breast size. It also has thick, supportive straps to keep your breasts from weighing you down. Top it off with a thick band and a cute design, and this is a great and versatile option for any higher-weight woman who’s expecting.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this nursing sports bra has been a mix of positives and negatives. On one hand, the unique design and full coverage cups make it quite appealing and comfortable. However, the thin straps and odd sizing can cause some issues, especially for those with larger chests. While it does provide decent support and avoids the dreaded "uni-boob" look, the straps can be uncomfortable and the fit may not be ideal for everyone.

Gratlin Plus-Size Wire-Free Pregnancy Bra

Best for Sexy Support

Following traditional bra sizing, you can order your exact band and cup size for a perfect fit. The cotton design can help you feel sexy, and the wireless support will keep your girls exactly where they belong. It also has six full rows of hook-and-eye closures, ensuring that as your rib cage expands, you can adjust your bra without needing to buy a new one.

Our Ratings

Support
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
5 / 5
Material
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

These nursing bras have been a favorite of mine due to their comfort and flattering shape for larger chests. In my experience, the bras with elastane provide a truer fit for cup sizes like DD, offering much-needed support. The material is generally soft, even for my sensitive skin, although some users have found certain versions to be rougher. One downside is that the straps can be too wide for some, but the overall fit and support outweigh this minor issue. I love the breathability and support provided by the mesh on the back, making it ideal for plus-size nursing moms. While the plastic clips may not be the highest quality, I haven't had any issues with them so far, making this a great quality and affordable nursing bra option.

Best Maternity Bras for Sleeping

You still need support when you’re sleeping, but you don’t want it a constricting bra. Choose soft and elastic construction for your maternity sleeping bra. This is one time you can almost be certain a nursing bra will work.

Kindred Braverly Terry Scoopback Sleep Bra

Easy Breezy

The ultra-soft french terry fabric will be soft against your skin while sleeping, and the stretch of the fabric was designed to accommodate your growing (or shrinking) size. The Kindred Braverly Sleep Bra has no wires, clasps, or hooks, making it both comfy and easy to use for night nursing. This bra is available in a range of colors and sizes, so there is one to fit every woman’s body and preferences.

Our Ratings

Support
3 / 5
Comfort
5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I've been wearing this bra for a while now and it's perfect for cancer survivors like me, providing softness, comfort, and breathability for unevenly-sized breasts. The sizing chart is accurate, but be aware that the material can shrink if you don't air dry it.

EMY Pregnancy Sleep Bra

Outrageously Soft

This 4-pack is perfect for the economically minded mama. Not only do you get a great price, but you’ll be able to use the bras after your baby arrives for night nursing. Plus, they’re super cute. The cotton-spandex construction is soft and supportive, and it has spots to insert nursing pads if you find you’re leaking colostrum as your due date approaches.

Our Ratings

Support
3 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
3.5 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

These nursing bras have been a great addition to my wardrobe since giving birth. Not only are they extremely soft and gentle on my sensitive skin, but they also provide ample support and are easy to use while pumping. I appreciate the cotton pockets for holding washable or disposable pads, and the crisscross front design adds extra comfort. Although some may experience shrinking after washing, I find that the quality and affordability of these bras make them a must-have for nursing mothers. Just be sure to order a size up, as they are Asian sizes.

Gratlin Comfort Support Nursing Bra

Completely Natural Feel

All moms need a lot of rest, and we love that this nursing bra focuses on both mom and baby. Made of luxuriously soft and smooth fabric, it hugs your curves for a natural and comfortable fit. It’s great for sleeping as it doesn’t have any wires or stiff seams to keep you up.

We also love that this bra can support a good night’s rest when you’re pregnant too. Because it molds to your specific shape, a single bra can see you through all of your body changes.

Our Ratings

Support
3.5 / 5
Comfort
5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Great nursing bra with a comfortable, stretchy design and easy-to-use nursing clips. I appreciate the lack of side fabric, making it effortless to put on and adjust. However, I recommend sizing up for a better fit, especially for those with larger busts, as it can be a bit snug around the rib cage and may not provide enough support for some.

Best Supportive Maternity Bras

Back, neck, and shoulder pain can all be the result of an ineffective, unsupportive bra. Choose a bra with wide straps, a good band, and several clasps to ensure your bra stays in place and offers as much support as possible.

Hofish 3-Pack Maternity Bras

Sexy and Sleek

Extra support doesn’t have to mean extra, bulky fabric. With a deeper V-neck design and unique push-up padding, this bra will help you feel more confident and sexy while still enjoying breathable support.

A wider underband keeps your breasts in place, and the non-slip shoulder straps keep the bra from shifting. With a single hand, you can unclasp the strap and drop-cup for easy feeding.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

These nursing bras offer a comfortable and easy-to-use experience, making them a favorite among breastfeeding moms. Although I experienced a broken clip on one of the bras, the company promptly sent me a replacement set without any issues. The bras are soft, affordable, and come in a variety of colors, but the removable padding can become deformed and may not provide adequate support for larger cup sizes. Despite these minor drawbacks, these nursing bras are a comfortable and practical option for nursing and pumping, with the added bonus of excellent customer service from the company.

Carriwell GelWire Maternity Nursing Bra

Fit with Flexibility

Underwire is generally frowned upon during pregnancy and nursing, but this innovative “gel wire” bra provides support without discomfort and damage. The included gel molds around breasts to help prevent tissue damage, but it’s still pliable enough to move around as your body changes. Combine that with thick straps and a wide band, and you’ve got adequate support in a bra that doesn’t look like it’s meant for sports.

Our Ratings

Support
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Adjustability
3.5 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this nursing bra has been quite positive, as it provided the support and comfort I needed for my larger chest size. I found that the gel wire design was a soft yet effective alternative to other sports-bra styled nursing bras that lacked adequate support. Additionally, this bra offers a nice shape and feels comfortable throughout the day. However, I did notice that it runs small, so be cautious when choosing a size. The only drawback I encountered was the lack of a nude color option in this particular nursing bra.

Best Nursing Maternity Bras

If you have to buy new bras for such a short event as pregnancy, it’s understandable that you want them to be useful for as long as possible. If you want to buy a nursing bra to double as a maternity bra, choose one that’s flexible and will fit your body as it grows.

Bravado! Seamless Nursing and Maternity Bra

Ultimate Skin-to-Skin

Skin-to-skin contact is an essential aspect of bonding between mom and baby, and this nursing bra makes it easy. The full drop-away cup allows your baby to comfortably connect to your bare skin during feedings. Because there aren’t any wires or seams, nothing will get in the way of this special time with your baby.

The four-way stretch fabric hugs your body no matter how it changes, and the removable foam inserts provide both shape and discretion while nursing. With a wide size range, this nursing bra can support any breastfeeding woman.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

This nursing bra has been a great addition to my collection, as it offers a comfortable fit and decent support, even for someone with a larger bust. The lightweight material helps prevent overheating, which is a major plus compared to other nursing bras I have tried. One downside is that the hooks on the bra I received were loose, but I decided to keep it due to its overall comfort. The sizing can be a bit tricky, so I recommend reading other reviews to get an accurate idea of what size to order. One thing to note is that this bra isn't designed for pumping, so if that's a priority for you, you may want to look elsewhere.

Playtex Seamless Nursing Pregnancy Bra

Smooth, Simple Cup

This bra’s seamless design eliminates chafing, and the elastic construction allows it to conform to your body. It has a wide band with hook-and-eye loops for maximum support and an X-Temp feature that enables you to stay cool. Plus, it’s got easy-click strap clips, so you’ll be able to wear it throughout the pregnancy and postpartum periods.

Our Ratings

Support
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

As a new mom, I found this nursing bra to be extremely comfortable and supportive. Although the description says it's lightly lined, it's actually unlined, which works great for wearing around the house. The sizing can be a bit tricky, as I found the band a little tight, but it might stretch after some wear. The material is soft, and the clips are easy to maneuver, making nursing a breeze. One downside I experienced was the adjustment clip breaking on a couple of the bras, rendering them unusable, but overall, they provide better support than other wireless bras I've tried.

Best Wireless Maternity Bras

An underwire can dig into the underside of your breasts, causing discomfort and potential damage to your milk ducts. Choosing a maternity bra without a wire will help increase your comfort without inhibiting your nursing ability.

Gepai Wire-free Front Button Maternity Bra

Flirty Florals

Bras don’t have to be boring, but unfortunately, many of them are. These cute, floral bras enhance your sexy shape with the front-button feature. They still have the supportive straps you crave, along with four hook-and-eye loops in the back — all without the pain of an underwire.

Our Ratings

Support
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Adjustability
3.5 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with these bras was a mixed bag. On one hand, they are incredibly cute and the band size fit perfectly. However, the cup size was way too small for those of us with larger breasts. The front snap design is useful for preventing milk from leaking onto the cups, but it can be challenging to close with one hand. The material is comfortable, but the bra lacks padding and support, and the seam across the cups is visible under tighter shirts.

Aibrou Wirefree Padded Pregnancy Bra

Real Versatility

This bra comes with a bra extender to help you get the most wear possible despite your growing, changing body. It also has built-in, removable padding that you can wash easily. The elastic construction extends its wearable life, and since it has nursing panels, you’ll even be able to use it after your baby arrives.

Our Ratings

Support
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I've recently received these nursing bras as a baby shower gift and found them to be a perfect fit and incredibly comfortable. It was a breeze to use them, making my life as a new mom a bit easier. However, I experienced an issue with one of the bras when a plastic piece connecting the shoulder strap to the cup broke unexpectedly. Despite this setback, I'm still willing to give these bras a chance and hope for a possible resolution.

Best Maternity Sports Bras

You want to stay active during your pregnancy — but the girls still need some support. To reduce your risk of damaging breast tissue during exercise, opt for a supportive sports bra. (They’re also a super-comfy option for less-active mamas.)

Fittin Racerback Pregnancy Sports Bra

Fit and Foxy

If you’re doing some serious workouts during pregnancy, then you’re going to want to skip the nursing and maternity bras and go straight for a regular sports bra. This one doesn’t sit too low on the torso (you know, where it might run into your belly), wicks sweat away from your skin during your workout, and helps to keep you cool. All those things are way more critical when you’re working out while pregnant than whether it says “maternity” on the label.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Adjustability
3.5 / 5
Material
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

For someone with a large chest, these sports bras have been a game-changer in terms of comfort and support. My daughters and I love the variety of colors and the thickness of the bra liners. They stay in place even after washing, making them perfect for our active lifestyles. The bras are supportive enough for yard work and other physical activities without feeling too tight or uncomfortable.

AKAMC Removable Padded Maternity Sports Bras

Hard Working Bra

These bras are made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, and they also have removable cups. The cups offer support and help maintain the integrity of your breast tissue, but you can remove them if you need a little more space as you start to outgrow your bra. The racerback design supports a full range of motion, and when you’ve finished your workout, you can just toss this in the wash as it’s machine washable.

Our Ratings

Support
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with these bras has been great, thanks to the breathable, moisture-wicking fabric and removable cups that provide support while accommodating growth. I appreciate the racerback design as it allows for a full range of motion during workouts. Washing them is a breeze since they're machine washable.

Best Cheap Maternity Bras

We get it. If you’re only going to be wearing your bra for a couple of months, you don’t want to spend a fortune. Thankfully, it’s possible to get both value AND function with these options.

Hofish Full Bust Matenity Bralette

Thrifty Three-Pack

This bra should carry you through the many stages of pregnancy and nursing for just one low price. The elastic construction is forgiving and will allow you to wear it at multiple bra sizes. It comes with bra extenders, so you can keep wearing it no matter how big your rib cage gets. It also has nursing panels, so you can use if after your baby arrives.

Our Ratings

Support
3 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Adjustability
4.5 / 5
Material
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

I absolutely loved these nursing bras during the first 9 months of my baby's life. They may not be the highest quality, but they are comfortable and lasted longer than I expected. The removable padding was a bit awkward, but the bras were still easy to use for nursing. The best part is that they provided the perfect amount of support and comfort for my growing breasts throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Caramel Cantina Pregnancy Bras

Value for Money Option

With this set, you get three bras for less than what you’d expect to pay for one. And not only that — you get to choose between traditional colors or a bolder-colored set. Caramel Catina bras are machine washable and come with nursing clips, so this one set can take you through many months of pregnancy and nursing.

Our Ratings

Support
3 / 5
Comfort
3.5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

First-Hand Impression

My experience with these nursing bras has been overwhelmingly positive, especially considering their affordable price. As a mother who has tried numerous nursing bras, ranging from pricier brands to cheaper alternatives, I found that these easily top the list in terms of comfort and practicality. The fabric is soft and stretchy, providing ample support for a wireless nursing bra. One of the standout features of these nursing bras is the padding in the cups, which offers enough thickness for coverage without being awkward or cumbersome. While the clips could be a bit more secure, they haven't posed any issues during usage.

ILoveSia 3-Pack Maternity Bras

3 for the Price of 1

Enjoy three seamless maternity bras for the price of one. Each bra features buttery soft fabric, adjustable straps, and removable, molded foam cups. A knitted underband also provides comfortable support without any wires digging into your skin.

Moms can never be too prepared. If you’re prone to leaking or your baby has very messy feedings and you want to keep several maternity bras available, this set is reasonably priced without skimping on features.

Our Ratings

Support
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Adjustability
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

Great value for expectant moms seeking comfort and support, this set of three maternity bras offers a variety of features at a reasonable price. I appreciated the buttery soft fabric, adjustable straps, and removable molded foam cups, while the knitted underband provided support without any uncomfortable wires. Although support could be slightly improved, the overall comfort, adjustability, and material quality make these bras a worthwhile investment. With frequent feedings and potential leaks, having multiple maternity bras available is a practical choice for new moms.

Why Do I Need a Maternity Bra?

During pregnancy, everything in your body grows and swells, including your breasts. You’ll likely find yourself needing both a different cup size and band size throughout your pregnancy. This is due to the following(1):

  • Hormonal shifts.
  • Weight gain.
  • Expanded rib cage.
  • Swelling.
  • Milk production.

How to Choose the Best Pregnancy Bra

When buying a maternity bra, look for the following:

No Underwire

An underwire is a rounded support wire that runs through the bottom edge of the bra, cupping each breast. It’s best to avoid maternity bras with underwires during pregnancy as they can contribute to complications like mastitis or blocked ducts (2). Besides, underwires can be uncomfortable — especially during pregnancy.

Flexible

Both your cup and band size will continue to grow throughout pregnancy. Choose a bra that’s adjustable so you don’t outgrow it quickly.

Excellent Coverage

Your nipples will change during pregnancy — and they might leak colostrum toward the end. Choose a bra with good coverage and maybe even some padding to prevent any embarrassing “wardrobe malfunctions.”

Thick Straps

Thicker straps will provide better support as your breasts grow heavier and will be more comfortable.

Soft Cups

Your breasts are sensitive; you don’t need your bra to make them even more uncomfortable. Choose soft-lined cups that will not rub, irritate, or chafe your nipples.

Wide Band

A wide band will help provide support. Make sure your bra has a wide band that is secured by more than one clasp.

Nursing Panels

Please do not buy a bra simply because it doubles as a nursing bra, as many nursing bras aren’t designed with pregnancy in mind. However, if you find one that meets your maternity needs and also serves as a nursing bra, by all means, go for it.

More Hooks

Having an extra row of hooks makes your bra more secure and allows you to adjust it to more sizes, which means you’ll get to use it longer.


Is a Maternity Bra the Same as a Nursing Bra?

Maternity bras are not nursing bras, but some nursing bras can be used as maternity bras.

Confused yet?

The point of a maternity bra is to give you support for your larger, heavier breasts. Similarly, nursing bras are designed to hold larger, milk-filled breasts while offering an easy way to expose the nipple without removing the bra to facilitate nursing. Most nursing bras have some sort of clasp, clip, or panel to expose the breast.

Remember

A nursing bra is completely acceptable for use as a maternity bra. However, before spending money on a fancy nursing bra and justifying the expense by saying you’ll get months of use out of it, remember the size of your breasts will change unpredictably toward the end of pregnancy and during the postpartum period.

Immediately after delivery, your breasts may engorge, and when your milk comes in, they’ll be a different size altogether. In fact, you can measure two different cup sizes throughout the course of a single day. Around the time your baby is four months old, your milk supply will settle down, and you’ll probably find yourself needing yet another bra.

The best maternity bra should meet your need for support and comfort when you’re buying it, not because you think it’ll meet a future need. If your pregnancy bra happens to have nursing panels, great — it may fit you again at some point, but there’s no guarantee.

How Many Maternity Bras Do I Need?

You’ll likely need several maternity bras throughout your pregnancy, but we don’t recommend buying an entire wardrobe’s worth in one shopping spree. The reason is that your body will continue to change — so what fits today may feel snug next month.

Instead, buy two to three maternity bras, and rotate them between wash and wear until you feel like you need a better fit. Then, buy two to three more.

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Maternity Bra FAQs

When Should I Start Wearing a Maternity Bra?

Some moms-to-be notice their breasts have grown large enough during the first trimester that they need new bras, while others won’t experience this until their second trimester.

Once you feel your old bras don’t fit as well as they used to, make sure to get some new bras ASAP. It’s important that your breasts aren’t restricted while they’re growing.

Should You Size Up Bra When Pregnant?

You should size up your bras if your old bras are uncomfortable. There isn’t a particular month in your pregnancy this will happen, so just pay attention to what your body is telling you.

If the cups feel too tight or you’re struggling to use the clasps in the back, it’s time for an upgrade.

At What Point in Pregnancy Should You Stop Wearing Underwire Bras?

The truth is underwire bras can be worn throughout your entire pregnancy. It won’t hurt you to wear one, but most women ditch their underwire bras at a certain point during pregnancy because they’re uncomfortable.

Plenty of the maternity bras we recommended today don’t have underwires for this reason.

Is a Maternity Bra the Same As a Normal Bra?

Maternity bras are built for comfort, while most normal bras are meant for support and style. Usually, maternity bras have softer and wider straps than a normal bra would.

Also, most maternity bras don’t come with an underwire. The fabric maternity bras are made with is almost always super soft, too.

What’s the Best Bra to Wear While Pregnant?

That depends on you and what you want out of a maternity bra. If you’re on a budget, go for the seamless Hofish Full Bust.

If you’re strictly on a search for comfort, you might like the Gratlin Women’s Support or Kindred Braverly Terry bras. Trying to keep things sexy? Go for the Gratlin Women’s Lace bras.


The Bottom Line

You probably knew you’d need to buy maternity pants and shirts when you got pregnant, but don’t forget to pay close attention to your bra, too. If you wear one that doesn’t fit right, it can not only cause breast pain and posture problems but nursing problems as well.

Here’s to keeping our girls happy!

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Headshot of Mary Sweeney, BSN, RN, CEN

Reviewed by

Mary Sweeney, BSN, RN, CEN

Mary Sweeney, BSN, RN, CEN is an oncology nurse navigator and freelance medical writer. Mary has 4 years of experience as an officer in the Navy Nurse Corps. including emergency/trauma, post-anesthesia, and deployment medicine.