Your breasts may grow 2 to 3 cup sizes in the first three months and feel heavier and more sensitive, and your ribcage expands too. That's why maternity bras have extra rows of hooks: the band can change with you.
First three months
The most change happens now. Choose a non-wired, stretchy, seamless bra that grows with you, fitted on the tightest hook so you can loosen the band as your ribcage expands.
Three to seven months
Breast growth slows, but your ribcage keeps expanding. If the band feels too tight, get refitted. Your size should settle around seven months.
Seven to nine months
You should be on one of the looser hooks, with only enough room in the cup to slip a flat hand in. Close to birth, consider a wirefree bra for hospital and the first few weeks.
After birth
In the first four weeks your breasts swell as your milk comes in, so a comfortable, well-fitted wirefree bra is best. From about four weeks your supply settles, and the bras you were fitted in at seven to nine months may fit again, on the loosest hook. More detail is in our pregnancy bra fitting guide.
Brands include Hotmilk and Cake Lingerie.
Maternity & nursing bras · Wirefree maternity · Maternity crops · Plus size maternity
