Reviews: Nursing Bras/tops & Nightgowns

Medella bras are best. I have a sleep one for night that is very comfy and another for day. I've heard that no underwire is best, so that's what I got. Also, for sleepwear, go to www.motherwear.com. I love their stuff, and it's good quality. Congrats and get ready for an amazing experience!

Hi M.! I have to say that I'm one of the crazy ones that never got bigger boobs. At the same time I was pregnant, I also had several friends that were pregnant. It was the biggest (no pun intended) thing I was looking forward to...bigger boobs! It happened to all my friends, but never to me. I was talked into getting a nursing bra one cup bigger than I normally wear and I never got to use it (and it was an expensive one from Motherhood Maternity!). I think I used Wal-Mart nursing bras and I LIVED in them night and day. And used the Lansonal (SP??) nursing pads. The only time my boobs got bigger was when I was engorged, and even then my bras still fit. I nursed for 13 months and now AFTER the fact....ugh! I KNOW they say that nursing doesn't make you saggy and smaller, but it did me! I was always a size B and now I'm a size A. Had to buy all new bras after I was done nursing. But again, I think I'm kind of the exception (I have to assume there are a FEW more out there like me, though!) when it came to not getting bigger boobs during/after pregnancy and going down a size from my original size after all was said and done. But I must also say, I don't regret my decision to nurse just because my boobs changed so much. I wouldn't change that special time I had with him in a heartbeat! Oh yeah....I never messed with nursing shirts. I was too poor to buy any and I found it just as easy to lift my shirt. In the beginning I used a blanket, but later he didn't want his face covered so I didn't use anything. And I nursed anywhere and everywhere and I can honestly say that hardly anyone noticed!

Good luck, chick!

I waited until after I delivered & my milk came in to really shop. My favorite bras were ones from Target. They were "shelf" nursing bras, kinda like a sports bra. They also have nursing tanks, which will be great for you in the summer. Walmart may have some too.
My mother in law did buy me a bra that was 1 size up before I delivered & that still fit. Don't buy underwires - can cause clogged ducts.
If I were you, I would go out & buy many different kinds, then take them back when your milk comes in & you know what fits you best.
J.

Congrats to you! And good luck nursing, hang in there when it hurts the first couple weeks. It's worth it! Well if you are like me, I was a "leaker" 24-7. I slept in a maternity tank top with a sewn-in shelf and disposable nursing pads. And during the day, I wore a very loose oversized sports bra. (Not too tight as it will cut down your milk supply.) Personally, I hated nursing bras. Too uncomfortable for me and too hard to unlatch one-handed while holding a crying, hungrey baby. Regular bras, work just fine if you don't want to spend the extra money. Just buy big, check the clearance rack.
As for the nursing nightgown, I only wore mine in the hospital, because the baby was eating every 2 hours. Once we got home and he slept more, I leaked more.
Good luck and best wishes for the rest of your pregnancy!

P.S. another tip, whatever you decide to wear, wash it in scent-free detergent and no fabric softener. My babies had sensitive skin and got face rashes when nursing.

hello - are you getting excited or what :)

my hospital (st. lukes) had a nursing store in it. i purchased a medela nursing bra while i was in the hospital with help from the lactation consultant. i too am a c that went up to a d while pg. the bras come in s,m,l size. i also purchased a nursing tank top. great around the house or for the summer. you could try kangaroo kids on manchester. they are very helpful in bf department. i do find using a nursing bra is easier than a conventional one. plus they are more comfortable. i love my hooter hider!

good luck- sorry about the typos, i am trying to bf and type!

In order to know the size for the bra, go about 2 weeks before your due date and get measured. Your size should not change much even when your milk comes in. To be honest, Target has the best selection and very good nursing bra's. I personally don't think you need nursing night gowns or nursing tanks. I just wore pull over shirts all of the time. Since you are a planner, check out the book Baby Wise at the library. Great - nursing and sleeping advise. I used it with both my children. Both slept thru the night 8 weeks and 10 weeks. I nursed both of them until they were 10 months old. Good Luck nursing! I am not going to lie - It is difficult the first time around - but stick with it. If you need any advise let me know.

Good luck and congrats! - L.

This may already be in your advice list, but I'll add my two cents. I purchased a really expensive nursing bra and then added to it with some nursing tanks and bras from Target. (Target has a maternity/nursing line). I used the Target ones all of the time and they were half of the cost!

I breast fed 4 children and have used it all. The best for me in the end was just a t-shirt and comfortable sports bra. Not too tight that is uncomfortable. Just lift the shirt and bra up and there you go!! I wasted a lot of money for no reason. You can even put the cloth breast pads in there. The disposable ones left lint and I had to clean it off before the baby could nurse. With my fourth one, my mom was freaking out that I would walk thru a store with my shirt pulled up on the nursing side and the baby attached. No one could see anything I made sure of that, and no one even looked my way. I got tired of hiding in bathrooms when I had soooo much to do. Good luck!
J.

Yes breastsize does change after baby is born and when you get engorged but however the nursing brs'a I have had done pretty well I would go to JCPenny'a and get fitted for a bra or a maternity store.You may like to wait however a week after baby is born is your worried about the correct fit this will give you time to get the milk in

With my son I waiting until after my milk came in to get nursing bras. Because your breasts will get larger than they are know and it's hard to know exactly what size you need. I got mine at Motherhood Maternity. I had one of the cheaper ones so it wasn't super comfortable. I'm pregnant again and I think this time I'll try to spend a little more on a better nursing bra though.

Hi M., The only thing that I found that was good was a custom made bra. They are a little pricey, but very well worth it! I see your from St. Louis so that is great! I found Ann's bra shop and was custom fitted there. They have great maternity bra's and they are very comfortable! Good luck with your soon to be born baby! I can't begin to tell you how great being a mom is (well, most of the time!! LOL) Good luck!!

Congrats on soon to be a mother! I bought my nursing bras during pregnancy and used my pregnancy size (not thinking I would change) and they worked fine for me. Your breasts will grow and shrink after each feeding. I was a 36B before first pregnancy and am now 38C though I have been pregnant or nursing for two years straight! :0)

I wouldn't live without my sleeping bra! Especially if you are larger, you don't want your breasts hanging loose at night. I find it increases milk production and you can get painfully full at night if they are not supported.

Good luck with the shawl. My kids won't nurse with their heads covered. I have to use a stiff blanket and make a curtain. You can also pump ahead and give a bottle once you two are established nursing pair (around 8 weeks).

I am a working mom and I find the nursing tanks are very comfortable and convenient. I don't mind nursing in public and at home with guests over and the tanks provide a lot of coverage. I just purchased my tanks at Target since I am not so well endowed! I went from a B to a D then back down to a C after a month or so. The tanks seem to do the trick. I did get a nursing tank from Glamour Mom and it is quite supportive. But the cotton ones seemed more comfortable to me. I did purchase a few nursing bras, but really don't use them that much. The tanks allow me to use my regular clothes instead of having to buy nursing shirts.

I'll tell you what I did. I went to places like Marshalls & TJ Maxx for nightgowns. I looked for sleepwear that would easily open in the front (button down or v-neck). Since you're not due until May, you could get nightgowns or tops that are sleeveless. I found the sleepwear especially made for nursing either ugly or expensive. I found my nursing bra's at Target. They have held up very well & were inexpensive. Not all Target stores have the nursing line, but the one by the Galleria Mall does. The bras are stretchy enough that you don't need to be exact with size. Target's nursing line has multiple bras, underwires, jogging nursing bras, sleep bras & tank tops w/nursing flaps. Other friends have tried specialty stores but I about had a heart attack when I saw how much they cost.

I don't think you need the nursing nightgown, but I would definitely purchase a nursing sleep bra. It's nice to have a little support, but not so much that you're uncomfortable. The tanks are nice so your stomach doesn't show when you lift your shirt up, but may be unnecessary if you use your hooter hider, although there will maybe still be a little of your side that might show. My hospital has lactation consultants that do bra-fittings and even sell them, so I met with her before I was due, now would be a good time for you--- you never know if you will go early. The lactation consultant will have a pretty good idea of what size you will need while engorged and after the engorgement goes down. You don't want to get the bra while you're engorged--- your breasts won't stay that big for long!! Even while continuing to nurse, they will not stay as big as when the milk first comes in. I would definitely ask your doctor if your hospital has lactation consultants and you can get the phone number from them.

With my daughter I literally stopped at a specialty bra shop on the way home from the hospital. There's just no way to predict your size. Just know that the day your milk comes in - don't freak out! Your boobs are going to be gargantuan. But they will go back down to normal size.

I had a couple of nursing shirts but found them to be a pain and didn't use them. I am very modest and found a blanket worked fine if I "pinned" it between my back and the back of whatever chair I was sitting in.

A tank top with a bra would not hold or support my size. I'm a C/D cup pre-pregnancy... a DD now and was horrified to be told I was like an F or something afterward (in the nursing bra world that's like a DDD I believe). I don't know if there are specialty bra stores in this area - I lived out of state where they carried special brands and sizes. I definitelyl recommend spending the money and time shopping for something you'll be "dealing with" several times a day for a long time.

Good luck.

Hi M. I can't help much with the sizing changes since I'm barely a B and didn't go up to much with breastfeeding... but as for the sleeping bra's/tanks... I used a soft sleep bra from motherhood and I loved it!!! It was super soft and comfortable and I had a lot of problem with leaking, so I could put a pad inside so my sheets would be soaked in the morning. As for the breast feeding night gowns... I don't think there necessary. At 2 in the morning in the dark you don't want to be fussing with the holes... I just hiked up my shirt. Who care at 2 in the morning in the dark in your own home! As for going out... I just used a blanket and I did like having a couple of nursing shirts to wear if I was going out to the mall or something but you certainly don't need a whole wardrobe of them.

Hope this helps.

M.,
At eight months pregnant, you should size your bra now. I doubt you will change much from here. I mean your boobs will be heavier but the size won't change much. My favorite place to get my bras was at the Leggs/Haynes/Bali/Playtex Outlet store. I have had four children and nursed them all. I never had to buy formula! I wish you luck because it's so cool! I did, however, purchase maternity PJ's which already had the nursing slots in them. I also purchased several nursing shirts at Motherhood (at the mall) and at Motherhood.com on-line. What also works is layering, like wearing a simple top and having a jacket or twinset top over it. I even nursed in my sling at Chucky Cheese and no one could tell.

My favorite place to nurse (other than home) was actually in my van. My other kids were in control (watching tv) and I could nurse in quiet instead of the loudness of the store. I was really good at changing diapers on my lap! Also, most malls have nursing rooms and they are usually very nice. I just stopped nursing my fourth child a couple of months ago and I miss it already.

Another piece of advise is to locate your nearest La Leache League Leader and get a number at hand. You don't have to attend any meetings if you don't want to (however I met some good friends through the group) but if you have a number you can call if you run into any trouble. If you get sick or hurt yourself the doctor that fixes you could prescribe something and tell you that you can't nurse while taking it. That's just to cover their own butt. They don't know for sure unless they have a certain book to look drugs up. It happened to me and my leader looked it up and said that I could continue to nurse. I don't know what I would have done without her. Good Luck to you, it's a really cool experience. No one has ever regretted nursing, but many have regretted stopping! God Bless you and your Baby!

Hi M.,
You really should look into nursing tops, dresses and pj's as well as bras. They make them so well these days that you could be nursing walking through the isles at the grocery store and no one would even know. I did it all of the time and was never even looked at. It just looked like I was carrying a sleeping baby. I found that the shawl thing wasn't an option because my daughter would overheat under there. Check out www.motherwear.com to see what's out there then check out ebay and/or thrift shops. Do a search for nursing clothes. You'll be nursing through the hot summer months and I'm sure the shawl will be too hot for you to. Good luck and stick it out. It will really hurt in the beginning but it gets better. I nursed 18 months and my daughter went straight from the breast to a sippy cup. I didn't want to have to wean her twice, once from my breast and then again from a bottle.

In my experience the nursing gowns were useful only for about a week or two after my daughter was born. Everyone wanted to see the baby right after she was born. The nursing sets were convenient because I just didn't have the time or energy to dress up for all the people wanting to visit. After the first couple of weeks, I didn't use the gown any longer. 10 months after my daughter was born, I still wear my nursing tops. As for nursing bras, I bought the size I was wearing before I gave birth and they still fit even though I went up a cup size and 2 inches in width. I don't know if I just got lucky or what. The bras I got are very stretchy especially in the cups. Perhaps whoever designed them knew that a breastfeeding woman's cup size goes up and down throughout the day. Sports bras became my new best friends. I sleep in them because they are so stretchy they are very convenient for middle of the night feedings. There's nothing to unhook or fumble with while you're half asleep and they hold the nursing pads firmly in place so you don't wake up in a puddle of milk. I live in the Northland (KC) and had a heck of a time finding nursing bras and gowns in an actual physical store. I finally found the bras at Burlington Coat Factory. They are made by Gelmart and I got them for $9.99 each. I had a little better luck finding nursing gowns, but ultimately ended up buying a gown and robe set and a shorts set at a local thrift store. I spent less than $10 for both sets which is good considering how little use I got out of them. I found lots of on-line options for bras, gowns, and tops, but they were pricey. I ended up buying a lot of 5 cute nursng tops on Ebay for about $20. Since then, I think I've spent about $20 for each individual nursing top I've bought at a physical store!

Good luck to you!

CONGRATS!! First off it is wonderful to have a plan but as long as you understand that things never go as planned...and it is alright. I went to Ann's Bra Shop when I was about 8 months preg. with my first child to get a nursing bra. They are a little pricer but well worth it!!! The lady came in and measured and handed me the bra. I looked down the the size and I kid you not I thought it was the price code. Go ahead laugh..after 10 years I am still laughing. I had NO idea that my boobs had gotten that big. I suggest going there..or another place like it, get fitted and if nothing else purchase atleast 1. As far as breastfeeding in public there are a lot of ways to do that without people even looking. I had the blanket thing over the top of my shoulder and sometimes would sit in the corner on a bench and then put the stroller on the other side. The best way to practice so you feel comfortable is to sit in front of a mirror. That way you can see how much you are showing. In a few weeks after the baby is born you will be a pro!!

I would definitely get a nursing nightgown. I loved mine and wore it all the time. It is very handy when you are getting up in the middle of the night and you don't have to struggle to get your nightshirt up high enough to nurse. You just pop those babies out and your little angel can go to town so to speak. It works great! Good luck!

I think having a nursing PJs or nightgown is important. I bought a nursing shirt after having my second child and I felt it was to hard to manuver. Its much easier to just wear a t-shirt with a zippered jacket or sweater over it if you need to wear layers because of the weather. You can stay covered just as well with normal shirts. Button up is hard though. You can always just use a blanket or your shawl to cover up with.

I loved my nursing nightgown, especially in the hospital, because it made night-time feedings easy. I am a C cup, and I only bought two nursing bras, one during my ninth month (the kind you can sleep in--it was stretchy enough to fit comfortably from "full" to "empty"), and then after my son was born, another one for daytime once I was ready to leave the house more often. I think I spent about $20 on each of them (that was 2004), but I tried on several in various price ranges to be sure I had one that was good quality with a good, comfortable fit. I'd really suggest having yourself measured at one of the nicer shops if you aren't absolutely sure of your size--a good fit makes a big difference!
I didn't have any need for the nursing shirts and tanks (and I just used a light baby blanket to cover up), but I know some moms love them and find them very convenient.
Congrats on being a new mommy soon!
--A.

Maratha,

While I was nursing I relied mostly on nursing tanks. They helped keep my belly covered when nursing (very handy if you have to pull up your outer shirt). As far as sizes, I only went up one size for a nursing bra from what I was before. I prefer the soft cup ones since they expand with you as you swell/shrink during nursing. Unfortunately I never did find one that was a great fit, i.e. looked natural under things. I also invested in a couple of sleep bras, which I also used during the day when I was just bumming around the house. If you get the kind that overlap in the front it makes for easy access during nursing.

You have many responses, but here's what I did: I bought three cheap nursing bras at Wal-Mart. They have good enough support for me (c-cup or so). Be sure it is not tight, because this can cause milk not to come in as well, or at all.

I wouldn't waste money on nursing tanks, etc if you have a shawl - that should be good enough, I think. I lift my tshirt just over the breast my son is 'using' whenever he needs to nurse, and you can't see anything but a little of my side, and if I am sitting and holding my arm just right you can't see that either!

Best of luck to you!

I think everyone is different when it comes to changes in bra size. I've had friends who went up 2 sizes, but I've only went up 1 (borderline B/C cup to a C/D cup) The only advice I can give you on that is I was the same size when I breastfed as I was towards the end of my pregnancy.

The clothing situation~ I had no need for the special nursing tops. The only "nursing" clothing I had was a nightgown because my mom in law gave it to me as a shower gift, and it was pretty convenient. I would've loved to have one of those nursing shawls because it would've been a lot cooler that the blanket I draped myself with LOL. I also LOVE wearing tanks and if I could have afforded it I would have bought a couple nursing tanks, but that would've been about it. We couldn't afford a new nursing wardrobe, so I compromised with easy access clothing~ mainly button up shirts. I hope this helps you out, and enjoy becoming a Mommy!

congratulations on your daughter and your decision to breastfeed. You have a lot of good advice here, though I didn't read it all. The only thing I see missing is be careful not to buy a nursing bra with an under wire in it. I know that they are more supportive but they can cause blocked ducts and mastitis. neither are fun, (and then you end up with doctors who aren't educated in breastfeeding and tell you that you have to stop breastfeeding, which is the worst thing you can do for it.) Good luck and get a comfy bra, your gonna need it!

My one piece of advice in regards to nursing apparel would definately be in to invest in some nursing pads. No more how comfortable apparel you buy, there is nothing more uncomfortable than having spots on your shirt on your first outing, (or even around the house when company arrives to visit!) The nursing pads will protect your clothes and you from the embarressment of a potential leak.

As far as the supportive bra, I'd take the time to get fitted for your nursing bra so that you can get the right size. I know of Kangaroo Kids in Kirkwood that offer that service.

Hope that helps!
M.

Maranatha,

Congrats on Mommyhood! I nursed both of our little ones. I never found nuring bras to be very helpful, I always thought They were hard to hook and such. I acutally just used regular shelf bra tanks for k-mart and wore those under my regular tops, that way if you needed to lift up your shirt your tummy stayed covered and I just pulled the tank under my breast so baby could have access. If you want to buy a nursing bra chat with the ladies at "Motherhood" they were always really helpful. Ps Gordmans carries a line of clothes from motherhood and from what I remember they were slightly less expensive!!!

The nursing tanks (I got mine from Target) are awesome!!!! You can wear them under shirts so that when you do nurse you are only exposing your breast area and your stomach is covered. I loved them at night too! I wouldn't buy too many nursing bras until after you have the baby. Maybe just one or two to get you buy until your breasts adjust sizes and then get some so they fit well!!!!! Good Luck!!!!!

M.,

I am also due the end of May and have been advised by everyone to wait to get a nursing bra until after I come home with the baby. There is no way to determine what size you will be and if you guess....you'll most likely be wrong. So I am intending on just not having one for the first couple of days until I can get out and get one. I may look into one at the hospital as they do sell them at St. Luke's, where I plan to deliver, but that may even be too soon. I was also told to get at least one night gown that buttons or snaps down the front. I'm going for the extra large, figure it's ok for it to be too big. Good luck with your baby girl! I am also have a girl! How exciting!

Hooter Hiders / Bebe Au Lait covers are great! Nursing bra and / or tank - totally worth it. I also recommend lily padz! Kangaroo Kids has a fair supply of nursing bras and tanks. They will fit you. You may get slightly fuller, but your band size will go down. I like the nursing tanks because your abdomen / back are covered; however, they are not very supportive if you are busty. I have 2 of the tank tops, an underwire nursing bra (my personal favorite, especially for back to work or going out), a LLL soft-cup nursing bra that's kind of pretty (second favorite), and 2 over the head nursing bras (can't recall the brand) that they recommended for wearing at the hospital and early on -- i would say these are ok at night but not really worth the expense. In hindsight, I would not have bought these over the head ones, because I couldn't wear it during labor as I had hoped (because I had an epidural) - Instead I would have invested in a nursing sports bra. Had I waited to buy more than one (which I recommned), I would have known better but I wanted to be prepared too and was just disappointed with my first purchases.

If you don't want to buy in advance, I believe some hospitals will have a lactation consultant fit you and they sell the bras / tanks at a discount

Congratulations! And good job getting prepared for nursing! Breastfeeding can be difficult at first but give yourself and your baby at least 6 weeks to get into the swing of things. Many women quit before then and it's unfortunate b/c mother and baby don't have a chance to get good at it, i.e. comfortable, relaxed, etc. About your questions: I was a C cup before my first. Became a D cup during pregnancy and wore an F cup when my milk came in after delivering! I would wait and get a good fitting nursing bra from a specialty store like Ann's Bra shop after you deliver. So for now I would get a nursing tank--great investment. Target has some awesome ones. That way you'll have something right away after you deliver and you can use it throughout nursing. Nursing shirts and gowns can be convenient but not necessary. Some moms swear by them but I'm not too often impressed by the quality or fit and I've tried several brands. If you have the Hooter Hider you really won't need them. I love my HH and use it ALL the time. Practice at home before you go out so you don't feel clumsy. Don't get the Target version of the HH! The ugly black drape doesn't even work. Hopefully you have a HH with the boning in the top so you can see your baby while you nurse--they're the best.

If you have any other questions feel free to ask me. I have nursed two babies through the first year and am currently nursing our third daughter who is almost 8 months! I like to think I'm just a practical mom, not a granola type! I just like to do the best for baby and me! Take care!
God bless you as you start your family!

I think that buying the special shirts is more a waste of maney than helpful. Button-down shirts are great because you can just open a button or two at the bottom when nursing. As for getting the right bra size, I would get what fits you now, because they will get bigger, but usually only when you're ready to feed the baby.

The brand and Target is really supportive, but it only goes up to a DD. The Motherhood Maternity Outlet store at The Legends has a HUGE selection of nursing bras, tanks and nightgowns. The women there are very helpful and will help you find the right size. Also, Victoria's Secret has nursing bras for sale online! They're super sexy, but only go up to size DD.

I hope that helps!

Hi M., the only comment I didn't notice yet was to be prepared for your little one not wanting to be covered up when you nurse. I had one and so I had to make sure to go somewhere like a restroom or dressing room to nurse until I became not so modest. Remember the laws in IL, at least, protect you from being kicked out of public establishments for breast feeding. So, don't ever be worried about nursing in a store or restaurant, the kid has to eat, too.

On the bra note, I think I went from 32B to 34D then back to 34C after 2 kids. I did buy my bras ahead of time and got them at Motherhood as well. I bought two white and one black. I believe they were called Eternity and had a plastic hook that hooked on top which was really easy to do with one hand. They had underwires, but didn't bother me. I had another bra that I wore at night that didn't have a wire, but don't know where it is and can't remember the brand. Yes, breast pads are a must. I used disposables mostly because the wasable ones got misshaped and soaked quickly and thus I had to wash frequently.

Enjoy every moment. They are so precious, especially when they are young.

rumbamel in Swansea, IL

Hi M., First, congratulations on your upcoming birth! This is such an exciting time for you and your family.

As for nursing bras, I'd go to the Mommy & Me store at Shawnee Mission Hospital. This is a teeny little store packed with SO MANY things that are great for breastfeeding. I'm a double D and I found that they had a nice selection of good quality nursing bras (not the kind sold at Motherhood) for the ample-chested ladies. They'll measure you accurately and help you pick a couple that will suit your needs. They're also just such a great resource on breastfeeding that I think you'll find the trip well worth $3/gallon gas! Good luck.

I was barely a B cup before pregnancy and was astonished that when I started nursing my newborn son, my breasts were bigger than my son's head! There is no way to know how big you'll be after you give birth - and your breasts will be even bigger when milk comes in a few days later. I liked nursing bras for the convenience, but even more important are the nursing pads. I had no idea that when your baby is nursing on one side, the other side is leaking milk. Wear nursing pads at all times - a wet shirt is pretty embarrassing! And leaks can happen anytime, anywhere! The first week or so of nursing can be awkward, but once you get the hang of it, it's the fastest, easiest, most convenient and most rewarding way of feeding your baby. Best of all, it gives you 20-minute moments of one-on-one quiet, relaxed baby time when you don't feel guilty that you aren't taking care of something else! Good luck with your little one!

The lactation specialists at my hospital, St. Luke's, helped fit me for a nursing bra after I had my baby last August. They can tell you what size you'll need and help estimate how big your breasts will be once the milk comes in. I got a regular bra from them and a sleep bra. I didn't really get that much bigger during my pregnancy, but was up about a cup size once my milk came in.

The regular bra was bravado! and the sleep bra was medela and both were super comfy. I also bought a couple black and white nursing tank tops from Targe for about $16 and *lived* in those.

I just had my first in March and I wish I would have gotten nursing tanks. They would be great to wear around the house instead of having to wear my nursing bras all the time. Plus then it doesn't look like you've been in your PJ's all day! Also I always would that nursing gowns were expensive so I just got button down PJ's instead, plus I'd rather wear pants or shorts than a gown (that's personally preference). I'd usually end up wearing at least my PJ top all day because it was easier access than a regular T-shirt when nursing.

HTH!
L.

i got my nursing bras at kohls and they were not that expensive. I went from a 36 C to a 42D so i mean it all depends on your body and how much weight you gain during your pregnancy. In reference to the nursing gowns and what not, again i went to kohls and just got a nightgown that has buttons in the front and i would just unbutton a few, enought to where you can pull your breast out, and it was maybe like 11 bucks. The nursing gowns are really expensive in my eyes and not really worth it. I wish i would have had one of those cover things. they are amazing!

I went to a maternity shop and they measured me then were able to help me find the size I would need, it was wonderful. Also I highly recomend sleep bras, or any bra without an underwire, as well as nursing tanks (I completely understand about being exposed in public!). You may be suprised when you are nursing in public. People do stare, but not for the reasons you may think. So many people have come up to me ( I am currently nursing my 11 month old), and say how happy they are to see a mother nursing her baby in public, that it is a great thing!!! So good luck to you and I hope you enjoy it!

I see you have plenty of responses, so I'll keep this short...Pretty much any shirt that isn't a fitted "skinny" shirt will be easy enough to nurse in without exposing yourself. Here's some advice that you didn't ask for: during the first few weeks, use the disposible nursing pads that go inside your bra, because you will leak so much more while your body is trying to regulate your milk flow. Once you feel like your body and your baby are on the same supply/demand schedule, you can switch to the washable pads. It will save you a lot of laundry in the beginning if you use the disposible ones! Also, when you buy the washable ones, make sure the seams don't come together right in the middle-looks like constant THO! Best of luck with your new beautiful bundle!

Congratulations! My son will be 3 May 31, and I miss the baby stage already.

I went from barely-B to a size D during nursing. My favorite...nursing tanks. Thay were great. Comfy, easy to maneuver, worked into whatever outfit I was wearing. Good luck!

I had the same situation when I was pregnant. If you read the any tag on maternity clothes it usually states to buy the size you were pre-pregnancy. I found a comfortable and inexpensive nursing bra at Kohl's. I didn't buy my pre-pregnancy size cause I knew it wasn't going to fit. I ended up go up like 2 sizes on the bra. As far as nightgown, it really does come in handy - especially when you're half asleep during those middle of the night and early morning feedings. I even got my gown from Kohl's. The gown has openings on each breast side. The one I got came with a matching robe, which was also nice.

Congrats and good luck!!

I just wear a really stretchy tank top under any old shirt. Pull up or open your other shirt and then pull the tank down under your boob. You can also wear a nursing bra for shaping.

Hi...
I have two young girls and the first one I bought everything I thought I would need....don't do it! I did like the loose fitting night nurshing bra I got and I tried several daytime nursing bras until I found the one I liked. I think you could probably go in the next couple of weeks and try on bras and you should be the right size. Maye just get one until you know for sure after you baby comes. As far as actual nursing clothes, I would recommend not getting any....it's a waste of money. I pretty much just wore looser tops and just pulled the up when the girls were hungry.
Hope this helps!
D.

I have a 2 month old and am nursing and really like the motherhood nursing bras I bought at mimi maternity in the galleria mall in Brentwood they're really comfortable and supportive and I was surprised how reasonably priced they were. I also recommend medela reusable nursing pads they don't give as much of a bottle cap look as some of the others I've tried and you'll save money over the disposable ones. For nursing I just use a comfy tee shirt and a a cute nursing blanket large enough for wiggle room (mine is about 45x45 in.)

Hi M.
Congrats on your first baby. I loved Bravado Designs...nursing bras. I have 3 kids and used them at the end of each pregnancy and during nursing. A great design and alows you to grow once your milk comes in.
I purchased them online.

I found it best to but nursing bras as I needed larger bras during my pregnancies, because after delivery I eventually went back down in sizes so was able to wear them again. By the time I was done nursing (1 year for 1st, 15 months for the 2nd), they were pretty much wore out! I just stored them in between children. I also used bra band extenders when I just needed extra band size and not cup size. This was the most economical for me. If I remember correctly (my kids are now 17 and 13) I bought most of my nursing bras at either Sears of Penneys. In regard to nightgowns I loved mine. In fact I still have one of them I wear. After my second child was done nursing I just sewed up the nursing opening by machine. I never used day wear that was designed for nursing, just button up shirts that could be opened from the bottom, and large Ts, along with a receiving blanket for coverup

Hi M., I'm due in about 1 week and I just went through the same thing. I had been told to wait until I was about 8 months pregnant to get nursing bras. I went to Kangaroo Kids on Manchester Rd. to get my nursing bras. The ladies there are very helpful and will size you, answer any and all questions for you and help you find the right kind of nursing bras for you. The bras I ended up getting I'll be able to wear for a very long time and they're the most comfortable bras I've ever worn. Neither have underwire (I've heard that's bad for you especially if you're planning on breastfeeding), but both give me lots of support and I'm a 40 D at this point. Anyways, check them out, they're awesome. They're located in Kirkwood, probably 3-4 miles east of the West County Mall on the right. (they sell used baby/kid stuff as well as a lot of maternity/nursing stuff for moms)They also have a cafe there with great food for us pregnant women! The chocolate gooey butter cake is incredible:) Good luck.

Okay, I can tell you are getting probably more information that you actually wanted from this thread, but I'm going to add my story as well. I was a larger cup size to begin with (32DD) from the time I was in high school, so when I got pregnant.....well, let's just say I went up another cup size from about my 3rd month on. I was buying from a lactation store where I lived at the time that carried larger sizes. I also asked them to please predict what size I would be when I was finally breastfeeding, but they obviously said that they couldn't predict that. They did suggest I buy a couple of the nursing bras that are for sleeping or just laying around the house. These are are not necessarily a specific size, but cover a few cup sizes and are stretchy. If you have that on hand, you should be able to make it until you can get measured for the new bras you will need. Just know that you are still in for a lot of changes when it comes to your bra size. I topped out at a 34J. Yes, they do actually make that size. But after about 4-5 months of nursing and the baby starts to eat some cereal, etc., they slowly start to decrease. I do think I had an extreme case, but you will end up will several sizes of nursing bras by the time you are done breastfeeding. I would absolutely recommend that you invest in good nursing bras. You will want something supportive and easy to hook with one hand. As far as the other stuff you are talking about buying, the nursing shirts, etc., I wouldn't. I know others like them, but if you have the Hooter Hider, you don't need both. I had someone give me a couple hand-me-down nursing shirts and I never wore them at all. I would wait if I were you. I am a planner like you and it is nice to be prepared for anything, but save your money and see how you do with the Hooter Hider. If you feel like you still need the nursing shirts after that then you can get some. No need to spend money where it isn't needed.

I went from a 36C to a a 38DD during pregnancy, and it has stayed pretty much the same. I haven't nursed my girl for 5 months, and my breasts are still the same biggness.

So, I used the sports nursing bras ALOT, and also nursing camis from Target. I did not have much leaking problems, but if you do, the best nursing pads are Johnson and Johnson, but you will want a structured, padded nursing bra to wear them with out in public because they show through because of their thickness.

I stayed home for the first six months. The nursing camis were just great. I bought several and just wore them under my everyday clothes and also for a bedtime shirt.

I liked Bravada nursing bras. They come in small, med, large sizes, so theres room for growth. I used the nursing shirts with my first, but didn't with my second. I did like nursing dresses both times though, and the nursing tanks in the summer are great. They have a built in bra, so you don't have all the layers. You'll want some breast pads right away. When the milk come in, it comes in strong!

I LOVED LOVED LOVED my Lily Padz. www.lilypadz.com You can even wear them swimming! (I nursed for 10 months and only used 1 pair) And they hide "headlights" so you don't have to have a padded bra if that's important to you. I buy a pair for every friend that announces!

You will want a sports style bra that gives you a lot of support and a little bit of stretchy compression at first. When your milk production is still finding a balance you can sometimes become engorged, or swollen, and the compression (all around support - try to avoid anything with specific pressure points) feels really good. (A hot wet washcloth on each boob is fabulous too, haha)! :)

I tried buying nursing clothes, but as long as you have a bra you don't need specific clothes, and I think they always looked like, well, nursing clothes! I loved this site http://www.motherwear.com/cat.cfm/cid/50/va/1 the cottony smooth I liked enough I bought two. With that and a sleep/sport bra it's all I really used.

You'll also want some lanolin. And don't forget to take a pair of slippers to the hospital! :)

Hope this helps you! Congratulations - you'll do GREAT!

T.

During pregnancy my breast went up a couple cup sizes and a couple sizes around by the time I gave birth. Almost a week after I gave birth my bra size went down a cup size and a size around, and now I would say I am back to my pre-pregnancy bra size. (I am currently nursing and my daughter is 9 months old.) My two favorite bras are from Target. I tried the gowns at night and didn't care for them. Instead at night I either sleep in a sports bra type nursing bra or a tank top with a built in bra. They do sell nursing tanks, that I have always been curious about trying too. Good luck and congrats on the new baby!

I got my nursing bras at the Motherhood Maternity store. You can try them on before buying and the clerk there was very helpful. I highly recommend also purchasing a couple of the nighttime nursing bras too. They don't have underwire in them and you can just pull them to the side to nurse, rather than having to undo a clip. Also, the washable cloth breastpads are MUCH more comfortable than the disposable ones. I found the disposable ones to stick to my nipples and be a little painful to remove, plus irritating to the nipple. The cloth ones can be found anywhere that breastfeeding supplies are sold. As far as the clothing for nursing moms, I never had any of the shirts. I did have a nursing gown that was comnfortable and pretty, I wore it in the hospital for when visitors came. However, I didn't find it to be necessary. If you have the Hooter Hider, I think you'll be fine for coverage while nursing in public.

Congratulations on your pregnancy! I had two pair of nursing pajamas for my first baby - born in the fall. One was a nursing gown (with conveniently hidden slits) that I found to be very helpful. Another was a pair of pjs that I disliked. The pants were fine, but the top had some kind of strange contraption to wear over the breasts - not a bra, more of a holster. I wound up cutting out the weird holster and now it's like any other pair of pjs. So, I wouldn't recommend that.
As for bras, I bought a few nursing bras to wear during pregnancy and breastfeeding and found that they all worked fine for both. I found that buying my normal size, or one band size up worked fine. Also, I was happy to have a nighttime nursing bra - to have some support and a bit more comfort at night.

Good luck!

M.,
I had trouble when my milk came in with the under wire nursing bras. Oh how they hurt. I quit nursing at 7 months, my son is now 2 and I still have trouble wearing them. Though, my favorite nursing bra was from Target. Your milk will not come in for 2-3 days after delivery. So, you could go buy a bra after you get home and kind of know what size you will need. Hope that helps..

I have a hooter hider, too, and love it, so I recommend it. It is large enough, light weight enough, and stays on since it is around your neck, love it!! I also recommend the nursing tank tops. I wear one almost every day under my clothes and it is so convenient as it then allows your belly to not show while nursing (even if you use the hooter hider, it is nice to feel covered up in that area). My bra size didn't change too much, but I know others that they changed dramatically. It was suggested to me by a friend to wait to by bras until AFTER my milk came in to see what size I would be. You still need one or two after deliver, so I bought nursing sport type bras that it didn't matter what cup size I was. I bought mine at Motherhood Maternity and my nursing tanks at Target. Hope this helps!!

P.S. I am a planner, too, and let me just say there is NO WAY you can fully prepare for your child....especially the exhaustion and all the emotions you'll be feeling....nothing like it in the world!! Best wishes!!

special shirt's and nightgown's are not necessery and your breast will get a little bigger when the milk come's in after birth so you may just have to wait until then becuase you never know how much it will increase your size or not and you can not be to prepared. alway's expect the unexpected before and after birth and good luck.

I loved my nursing tank tops, especially since i was self-conscious about exposing my belly right after birth. I bought one prior to delivery and then bought 2 more a week after my daughter was born. I would recommend trying the ones at Target...I felt they fit better than the other brands I tried. I didn't really like my nursing bra. I got it at Kangaroo Kids when I was 8 1/2 months and i felt it was too small for the first few months when you are bigger.

I found the nursing bras and tanks to be ideal during those first few months - espcially for the night time. They are so easy when you are tired. My size leveled back out after things regulated (my body adjusted to his demand) after the first couple of months so I had to get new brs anyway. This is such an exciting time :) Wish you the best

Motherwear is a GREAT nursing resource. After you see what they have it might help you decide what you might like/need. They send out catalogs and have a website. www.motherwear.com Hope that helps a little. Have FUN! Take care! A.

I really liked the nursing cami's. You can get them at Target.

I went up a couple of cup and bra sizes while i was pregnant. Best thing to do is go into a place like victoria secrets and they can measure you. Its what i did after i had my baby and later after i was done nursing.

M.,

I found that the best nursing bra in the beginning is a sports style nursing bra. You can get them at Target or Kohl's. The first couple of weeks I was in bed a lot with my newborn nursing and did not want to wear those uncomfortable bras. You will also see that you may be engorged and then have let down so your breast size will go up and down. I would suggest looking for the sports bra nursing bra.
Good luck! Nursing is a wonderful thing that you can do for your child.