The Bra Blog

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it also comes with changes in your body that may require adjustments to your wardrobe, including your bras. Finding the perfect fit for a plus size maternity bra is essential for comfort and support during this special time.

Want some advice from leaders in the maternity bra industry? We have all of the insight you need to feel comfortable throughout your journey.

Get The Right Fit

Your bust size may increase during pregnancy, so it's crucial to get fitted regularly to ensure you're wearing the right size.

One surefire way to ensure you find a plus size maternity bra or nursing bra that fits perfectly is to get fitted professionally. You can visit a lingerie store or maternity boutique that offers bra fittings, which will usually provide you with very precise measurements to go off of.

Alternatively, you can use a measuring tape to measure your bust and underbust at home. We have a Fitting Guide and a bra size calculator to help you out.

Here’s a quick guide on finding your measurements yourself:

Wear a Well-Fitted Bra: Start by wearing a well-fitted wireless bra without any padding or push-up features. This will ensure that your breasts are supported and positioned properly for accurate measurements.

Measure Your Band Size: Use a soft measuring tape to measure around your ribcage, just under your bust. Ensure that the measuring tape is snug but not constricting and parallel to the floor. Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters.

Measure Your Bust Size: Next, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Again, ensure that the measuring tape is parallel to the ground and not too tight or too loose. Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters.

Calculate Your Cup Size: To determine your cup size, subtract your band size measurement from your bust size measurement. Use the difference to find your cup size based on the following chart but keep in mind that measuring your bra size is not an accurate science but gets you to a starting point on your actual size as there are more factors like breast shape and bra style to consider:

• 1 inch (2.5 cm) difference: A cup
• 2 inches (5 cm) difference: B cup
• 3 inches (7.6 cm) difference: C cup
• 4 inches (10 cm) difference: D cup
• 5 inches (12.7 cm) difference: DD/E cup
• 6 inches (15.2 cm) difference: DDD/F cup
• 7 inches (17.8 cm) difference: G cup
• 8 inches (20.3 cm) difference: H cup
• And so on...

Alternatively, you can just enter your measurements in our bra size calculator to find your size.

Consider Bra Style: Keep in mind that bra sizing can vary slightly between our styles. Check on each of their specifications to get a better idea of what details may impact the sizing for you and remember that all breasts have a different shape to fit different styles.

Check the Fit: Once you have a bra in your calculated size, try it on and assess the fit. The band should feel snug but not tight, and the cups should fully encase your breasts without any spillage or gaping. The center gore (the piece of fabric between the cups) should lie flat against your chest.

Adjust as Needed: If the bra doesn't fit quite right, don't hesitate to try a different size or style. Adjust the straps and band as needed to achieve a comfortable and supportive fit. Remember that proper bra fit is crucial for comfort and breast health, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

By following these steps, you can measure your cup size and find the perfect fit for one of our plus size maternity bras or any other bra style.

Knowing your measurements is just one thing to consider when looking for the perfect maternity or nursing bra. Here are some additional pointers:

Consider Changes in Size

During pregnancy, your breasts may increase in size due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow. As a result, you may need to go up a few cup and band sizes to accommodate your changing shape. Look for maternity bras specifically designed to provide extra support and flexibility for your growing bust.

Choose Adjustable Features

You may want to look for maternity bras with adjustable features such as adjustable straps and multiple hook-and-eye closures. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit and provide additional support as your body changes throughout pregnancy. Multiple hook-and-eye closures allow for flexibility in adjusting the band size to accommodate fluctuations in your bust size.

Opt for Stretchy Fabrics

Maternity bras made from stretchy and breathable fabrics such as cotton are ideal for comfort and flexibility. Look for bras with stretchy cups and side panels that can accommodate changes in your breast size and shape throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Supportive Design

Choose maternity bras like our FLEUR - Underwire Nursing Bra with a supportive design that offers adequate support and coverage for your growing bust.

In general, you should look for bras with wide underbands, wide straps, and full coverage cups that provide lift and support without digging in or causing discomfort. A supportive design is essential for relieving back and shoulder pain and promoting proper posture during and after pregnancy.