Nursing bra

What are maternity bras – and do I need one?

Maternity bras are souped-up versions of regular bras – designed to comfortably support your growing breasts during pregnancy.

Standard maternity bra features include wider straps, a soft cotton lining, and extra hooks and eyes on the band.

Maternity bras for large breasts

Some have underwire, some don't.

You'll most likely need a few maternity bras. Like the rest of your body during pregnancy, your breasts are changing, becoming bigger and more sensitive to the touch. You can chalk up this metamorphosis to hormonal shifts, weight gain, an expanding rib cage, and, later in pregnancy, mammary glands that are preparing to make milk for your baby.

While it may be tempting to make do with the bras you have (you've already got other maternity clothes to buy!), it's best to invest in a few good pregnancy bras.

Your breasts are getting heavier – the developing glandular tissues can add on a few ounces per breast, at least – and they deserve some comfy supp

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