When to Buy a New Bra During Pregnancy & Nursing
Your body is going through incredible changes during pregnancy and postpartum—and your bra should support you every step of the way (literally and emotionally). But with shifting sizes, tender breasts, and changing needs, many women wonder:
When is the right time to invest in a new bra during pregnancy and nursing?
👶 First Things First: Your Body Will Change—More Than Once
Pregnancy and postpartum bring multiple size shifts—not just one. It’s completely normal to go up one or even two cup sizes, and your ribcage will expand as your baby grows.
The key? Listen to your body—not the calendar.
Here’s a general guide to help you know when it’s time for a bra refresh:
🤰 During Pregnancy: 2 Key Bra Shopping Moments
1. Around 8–12 Weeks: The First Shift
- Breast tenderness and size changes often begin here.
- Your usual bras may start to feel tight or dig into your ribs.
- Opt for a soft, non-wired bra that can stretch with you.
👉 Tip: Look for bras that are flexible and breathable, with room to grow.
2. Around 28–32 Weeks: Preparing for Baby
- Your ribcage is fully expanded and breasts prep for milk production.
- Time to invest in a maternity/nursing bra with easy feeding access and adaptive sizing.
👉 Choose bras with:
- At least 4 rows of hooks
- Stretchy cups to accommodate postpartum changes
🍼 After Birth: Don’t Rush—Then Reassess
3. 2–4 Weeks Postpartum: Initial Recovery
- Your breasts are at their fullest as milk supply regulates.
- Stick to soft, supportive nursing bras—especially for night feeds.
- Avoid buying too many fitted bras—your size may still shift.
4. Around 6–8 Weeks Postpartum: The “True Size”
- Milk supply stabilizes and your body starts to settle.
- Best time to get professionally fitted or use a reliable online fit guide.
- Invest in well-fitting nursing bras to support your breastfeeding journey.
✨ What to Look for in a Maternity or Nursing Bra
- ✔️ Wire-free support (or flexible wire for nursing)
- ✔️ Drop-down or pull-aside cups for easy feeding
- ✔️ Stretchy fabrics to accommodate size shifts
- ✔️ Multiple hook rows for adjustability
- ✔️ Comfortable enough to sleep in
💬 Final Thoughts
The right time to buy a new bra isn’t about the exact week—it’s about how your body feels.
If your current bra is uncomfortable, unsupportive, or just not working anymore, that’s your sign.
At Marbra, we believe every stage deserves:
Comfort. Beauty. Support.
Our bras are designed to adapt with you—so you never have to sacrifice fit or confidence, no matter where you are in your motherhood journey.
Your body is changing. Your bra should too.