How to Measure for Nursing Bra UK

Finding the right nursing bra is essential for every breastfeeding mother. During pregnancy and postpartum, your body undergoes many changes, particularly in your breast size and shape.

Navigating the world of nursing bras can be a daunting task, especially for new mothers. With so many styles, sizes, and materials to choose from, finding the perfect fit is essential for comfort and support during breastfeeding.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of measuring for a nursing bra in the UK, ensuring you find the ideal bra for your changing body.

Why Measuring for a Nursing Bra is Essential

As your body changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding, your breasts can become heavier and more sensitive. Wearing the wrong bra size can lead to discomfort, restricted milk flow, and even issues like clogged milk ducts. Beyond physical discomfort, a poorly fitted bra may not provide adequate support, leading to back, neck, and shoulder pain.

When your bra fits correctly, it supports your breasts without putting pressure on them, which helps with milk production and flow. The right nursing bra also provides flexibility, adjusting as your breasts fluctuate in size throughout the day or between nursing sessions. This is why taking accurate measurements is key, and understanding how UK sizing works ensures you’re buying bras that cater to your needs.

Key Differences in UK Bra Sizing

Before you start measuring, it’s essential to understand how bra sizes work in the UK. In the UK, bra sizes are typically represented by two components: the band size and the cup size.

• Band Size: This number is the measurement around your ribcage, just under your bust. In the UK, band sizes typically range from 28 to 46, increasing in even numbers. The band size determines how snugly the bra fits around your ribcage and is crucial for proper support.
• Cup Size: This is represented by letters (A, B, C, D, etc.) and corresponds to the volume of the breast. The cup size is determined by the difference between your band measurement and your bust measurement. For example, a difference of 1 inch typically corresponds to an A cup, 2 inches to a B cup, and so on.

Knowing these two numbers together gives you your UK bra size (e.g., 34C, 36D). It’s important to note that UK sizes may differ from those in the US or Europe, so make sure you’re following UK sizing guidelines when shopping for a nursing bra.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Measure for a Nursing Bra in the UK

Accurately measuring yourself for a nursing bra is a simple process that you can do at home with just a tape measure. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Measure Your Band Size

To determine your band size:

1. Stand in front of a mirror and wrap a soft measuring tape snugly around your ribcage, just under your bust where the band of your bra would sit. Ensure that the tape is level all the way around your body.
2. Breathe out normally and record this measurement in inches. This number will serve as the basis for your band size.
3. If the measurement is an odd number, round up to the nearest even number (e.g., if you measure 33 inches, round up to 34).

The number you get is your band size (e.g., 32, 34, 36, etc.).

Image source: my-ephelia.de

Step 2: Measure Your Cup Size

Next, you need to measure the fullest part of your bust:

1. Wrap the measuring tape around your back and across the fullest part of your bust (usually across the nipples). Make sure the tape is level and not too tight or too loose.
2. Record this measurement in inches.

Image source: my-ephelia.de

Step 3: Calculate Your Nursing Bra Size

To find your cup size, subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement. The difference between the two gives you the cup size:

• 1 inch difference = A cup
• 2 inch difference = B cup
• 3 inch difference = C cup
• 4 inch difference = D cup
• 5 inch difference = DD cup

For example, if your bust measurement is 38 inches and your band measurement is 34 inches, the difference is 4 inches, meaning your cup size is a D. Thus, your nursing bra size is 34D.

Image source: my-ephelia.de

When to Measure for a Nursing Bra

It’s important to measure for your nursing bra at the right time, as your breast size will change throughout pregnancy and postpartum. Here’s when to measure:

• During Pregnancy: Most women find their breasts grow a few sizes during pregnancy, especially in the later months. Measuring around the 8th month of pregnancy is a good idea because your breast size at that point will likely be similar to what it will be after your milk comes in.
• Postpartum: If you’re already breastfeeding, your breast size can fluctuate throughout the day, depending on how much milk you have stored. The best time to measure is when your breasts are full but not engorged, giving you a more accurate size that accounts for milk storage.

Be prepared to remeasure periodically, as your size may change as your body adjusts postpartum.

Image source: jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Tips for Trying on Nursing Bras

Once you’ve measured your size, here are some additional tips to ensure your nursing bra fits comfortably:

• Band Fit: The band should be snug but not tight. It should sit evenly across your back and not ride up. If the band rides up, it may be too loose. The band provides most of the support, so it should feel secure.
• Cup Fit: The cups should fully cover your breasts without spilling out. If you notice any bulging or gaps, try adjusting the cup size. Nursing bras with stretchy fabrics can accommodate fluctuations in size.
• Straps: Straps should be adjustable and not dig into your shoulders. They should provide support without carrying too much of the weight of your breasts.
• Access for Nursing: Ensure that the bra has easy-to-use clasps or panels for nursing. You should be able to unclip and clip the bra with one hand for convenience.

Nursing Bra Fitting Services in the UK

If you’re unsure about measuring yourself at home, many UK stores offer professional fitting services. Here are a few popular options:

• Marks & Spencer: Known for its quality lingerie, M&S offers free in-store bra fittings, including for nursing bras.
• John Lewis: Another trusted retailer, John Lewis has trained fitters who can help you find the perfect size and style for your nursing bra.
• Bravissimo: Specializing in bras for fuller busts, Bravissimo offers fitting services both in-store and virtually.

Common Mistakes When Measuring for a Nursing Bra

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when measuring for a nursing bra:

• Measuring too tightly: Don’t pull the measuring tape too tight around your band or bust. You want the bra to fit snugly, not restrictively.
• Incorrect bust measurement: Make sure the tape measure is level across your bust and back. A tilted tape can give you inaccurate numbers.
• Not accounting for fluctuation: Since your breast size can change throughout the day, measure when your breasts are at their fullest but not engorged.

Top UK Brands Offering Nursing Bras

When shopping for nursing bras, here are some top UK-based brands that offer a wide range of sizes and styles:

• Bravado Designs: Known for its comfortable and stylish nursing bras with easy-access clips.
• Hotmilk: Offers a range of stylish and supportive nursing bras, including plus-size options.
• Royce: Specializes in wire-free nursing bras that provide both support and comfort.

Conclusion

Measuring yourself for a nursing bra is an important step to ensure both comfort and practicality during the breastfeeding journey. By following these steps and understanding UK sizing, you can find a nursing bra that supports your body’s changes and provides ease while nursing.

If you’re unsure, seek out professional fitting services available in the UK, or consult online resources from trusted brands.Remember, your body may change during and after pregnancy, so it’s important to re-evaluate your bra size and fit as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)