A nursing and maternity bra is one of the most important purchases mothers and mums-to-be can buy, whether they're using a breast pump or not. Most women know how important the right bra can be, and that becomes even more important during pregnancy and then postpartum.
Your breasts will change size and shape during pregnancy and after birth, which is why purchasing a quality nursing or maternity bra is so necessary. These bras offer support, easy access for breastfeeding and are much softer than your lacy pre-pregnancy bras. They'll give you additional comfort while you get used to all the natural changes happening to your body too. They're great for daily wear and some are even suitable for night, but you can also buy maternity bra's that are specifically designed to sleep in.
A nursing and maternity bra should be one of your first purchases when you're pregnant, with most realising how much of a lifesaver they are. The back pain you may get during pregnancy can be made worse without a supportive bra - plus, any breastfeeding mumma will tell you how thankful they are for a nursing bra once their baby arrives. They are also brilliant if you're using a breast pump too, as with some you can quickly attach it as and when needed.
The best nursing and maternity bras at a glance:
• Best maternity and nursing bra overall: Bravado Restore bra - buy here from Bravado, £29
• Best leakproof maternity and nursing bra: FreeFlo Leakproof Nursing Bra - buy here from Lesh, £38
• Best maternity and nursing bra for changing boobs: Rock Candy Luxury Seamless Nursing Bra - buy here from Cake Maternity, £44.90
Finding a bra that will last throughout your pregnancy and assist your breastfeeding journey is definitely crucial. However, it can be a minefield, especially if you are looking for something more niche, like a plus size maternity bra. But fear not, we've found the best nursing and maternity bra for pregnancy and beyond.
The best maternity and nursing bras
Best overall maternity and nursing bra
Bravadouk.bravadodesigns.com
Coined as the stretchiest bra yet, Bravado's Restore bra is super soft, ultra-comfortable nursing and maternity bra that will feel less like a restrictive pull and more like a supportive hug. Reviewers mentioned that it's the 'comfiest bra' they've ever born, whilst still being 'really supportive'.
The contemporary, pull-on style allows for an effortlessly chic look, designed with a feminine crossover styling and wide bottom band, the knitted bra is perfect for pregnancy, nursing (thanks to pull-away cups) and beyond.
Pros
- It's made from sustainable fabrics that are gentle on skin
- Pull-away full breast access
Cons
- It's not adjustable at the back
Best leakproof maternity and nursing bra
Leshwearelesh.com
The revolutionary Lesh FreeFlo Leakproof Nursing Bra has an absorbent core that locks in liquid, meaning you don't have to use breast pads.
It's quick wicking, super absorbent and even has 360 degree anti-leak technology. It's made from soft materials too for added comfort, meaning it can be worn day and night. It also has easy access nursing clips.
Reviewers have described the bra as 'life changing' and loved that it moulds nicely to your body thanks to its four-way stretch, stretching up to three cup sizes.
Pros
- Absorbs up to 60ml of breast milk
- It has one-handed access clips for feeding
- It has four-way stretch comfort
Cons
- You might need more than one
Best maternity and nursing bra for pregnancy
Mother&Babyuk.bravadodesigns.com
Our parent tester Laura said that the Bravado Sculpt Nursing Bra was "by far the comfiest bra [she's] ever worn." Ideal for throughout pregnancy, Laura also mentioned that she felt even on those days she dreaded the thought of wearing a bra, this one was still incredibly comfortable.
Made from recycled nylon for an adaptive fit, the sculpt bra has knit-in support zones around the cups to provide medium support. They offer full coverage style, and adjustable wide straps.
Pros
- Knit-in support zones for support and lift
- Soft, seamless and wire free for comfort
- Adjustable straps for a perfect fit
Cons
- Not ideal for breastfeeding
Best maternity and nursing bra set
Mother&Baby / Charlotte Mapletoftwww.jojomamanbebe.co.uk
This handy 2 pack bra set works out at £20 per bra which we think is great value for money. These clever and comfortable cups are designed to both lift and smooth your boobs making them ideal for wearing under tighter fitting t-shirts or dresses. Our mum tester Charlotte said they provided "an extremely comfortable and wearable every day bra. They go perfectly underneath all casual clothing and give a gentle level of support and shape."
The soft cotton material means they are suitable to wear even when your breasts are feeling sensitive and they also come with breastfeeding clips for easy access when feeding. "The clips provide easy access when feeding and are fully machine washable. I would recommend these for before and after pregnancy." Charlotte commented.
Pros
- You get two bras in a pack making it great value
- Come with breastfeeding clips for easy access when feeding
- Ideal for wearing under t-shirts and tighter clothes
Cons
- Only available in black and white
Best maternity and nursing bra for changing boobs
Cake Maternityuk.cakematernity.com
The Rock Candy Luxury Seamless Nursing bra has breast pads that are concealed within a moisture-wicking mesh lining, a godsend during those early first days.
Our Reviews Editor Emily loved the range of colours, and thought the bra was soft, gentle and as though it hugs your body thanks to its supportive design.
The Rock Candy nursing bra is ideal for your changing body through pregnancy and beyond, and is a non-wire design too for added comfort.
Pros
- Wire free for added comfort
- Helps to lift, shape and support
- Ideal for growing breasts
Cons
- The sizing can be a little off, so ensure you measure first
Best maternity and nursing bra with waterproof outer layer
Modibodiwww.modibodi.co.uk
This leak-proof bra from Modibodi combines fashion with function, offering discreet protection against leaks as you go about your day. Crafted with moisture-wicking fabric and innovative leak-proof technology, the Modibodi Breastfeeding Bra provides peace of mind for new mamas.
Our Reviews Editor found the bra had a silky feel to it and also felt that the bra offered plenty of support throughout pregnancy. It also has adjustable straps and convenient nursing clips to add practicality to style.
Pros
- Leak proof design to help keep dry
- A wire free design for comfort and support
- Front clips for easier breastfeeding
Cons
- There are limited sizes and colours available
Best push up maternity and nursing bra
Momcozyuk.momcozy.com
These clever bras use four layers of 'jelly gel' to gently lift your breasts, rather than with an un-comfy underwire, while offering 360° support circling your breasts.
Emily, or Reviews Editor found they fit seamlessly under her clothes and feel really comfy to wear in the day and even while she slept. Part of the pad is sewn in the bra, meaning it will quickly adjust back to the right place after washing.
Pros
- Convenient and easy nursing access
- The design is more flattering than most maternity bras
- Offers comfort and support in its seamless design
Cons
- They are hand wash only
Best stylish maternity and nursing bra
Boux Avenuewww.bouxavenue.com
The Nursing Ribbed Seamless Floral Embroidered Bralette is adapted from Boux Avenues best-selling selling. It features wider straps and an under band for support, as well as nursing clips to make breastfeeding easier. "As an exclusively breast-feeding Mum, these bras are the perfect fit for comfort and practicality whilst feeding my little one." Our mum tester Charlotte said. "They also boast the most beautiful seam-free design, which is rare to find when it comes to nursing bras!" She continued.
It features super soft, ribbed fabric that's stretchy and comfortable, which is a must when it comes to a maternity bra. "I would definitely recommend to any new Mum’s looking for a stylish yet practical underwear solution!"
Pros
- It's a pretty and practical design
- It's made from super soft, ribbed fabrics with wider straps for extra support
- Convenient nursing clips
Cons
- You might want a more plain design
Best lace maternity and nursing bra
www.seraphine.com
Seraphine founder Cecile Reinaud created this Seraphine nursing and maternity bra while breastfeeding her own son. She wanted to create something silky-smooth that not only maintained support, but stretches for comfort.
It's a more feminine nursing bra, with two colour options available. It has clips for easy nursing access and no under-wiring for added comfort.
Pros
- The design feels more like a traditional bra
- Easy nursing access
- There's an option to purchase matching briefs
Cons
- It cannot be tumble dried and needs to be on a gentle wash cycle
Best sports maternity and nursing bra
Cake Maternityuk.cakematernity.com
The Zest Nursing Sports Bra allows you to enjoy gentle exercise while looking after your boobs, with one mum describing it as one of the most 'supportive and comfortable' nursing sports bras.
Bounce is minimised thanks to flexible underwiring and a supportive shape, while its wide padded straps help disperse pressure and avoid back and shoulder pain.
Pros
- It's a multi-purpose design
- Ideal for active mums who need support and practicality when it comes to feeding
- It has flexible underwiring
Cons
- May not sit well under all outfits
Best for colour choices
Best maternity and nursing bra for skin-to-skin contact
John Lewis
Available in three subtle and wearable colours, this fantastic Bravado Body Silk Seamless Sheer Nursing Bra achieves a lot for your body at once.
Our Mother&Baby contributor, Sophie found that this bra was not only comfortable and supportive, but it allowed her to nurse effectively. She did find that the insert padding is tricky to realign after washing - but that's the same with most of these types of bras, it just takes a bit of patience.
Read our full Bravado Body Silk Seamless Sheer Nursing Bra review here.
Pros
- It's a comfortable design
- Knit-in support zones around the cups for extra lift
- The bra cups fully drop away for maximum skin-to-skin contact
Cons
- Padding is tricky to realign after washing
Best maternity and nursing bra with low-back design
Cake Maternityuk.cakematernity.com
This super-soft wire-free Tutti Frutti Nursing Bra support is made from bamboo viscose and memory foam. We love the plunging neckline with a touch of pretty lace. It has a low racer back design for medium-level support and comfort, plus adjustable hook and eye options for ribcage expansion.
Our Reviews Editor Emily loved the delicate lace detailing and thought it was a stylish touch for a maternity bra. She was sceptical about how it would last from pregnancy to post-birth, but was amazed at how easy it was to adjust to her changing body.
Pros
- Easily adjustable to support growing breasts
- A more flattering and feminine design
- Wire-free padding that's soft and comfortable
Cons
- Most mentioned that you do need to size up
Best maternity and nursing bra for pumping
Momcozyuk.momcozy.com
If you're hoping to use a wireless breast pump, the DEX has longer straps, allowing for enough extension to accommodate an in-bra pump comfortably and securely.
The cushioned wider straps help to reduce pressure off shoulders while pumping and the increased cup capacity allows reduced compression during in-bra pumping while retaining its shape. Emily loved this as a dedicated bra to pumping, and thought it was really comfortable to wear.
Pros
- Suitable for standard flanges and wearable pumps
- It has fixed padding in cups
- One-hand access nursing clips
Cons
- There's only one design option
Marbramarbra.co.uk
Our tester found that the fabric is super lightweight and thin but in no way see-through, so they sit really naturally under clothing compared to other nursing bras she's tried. They’re also super soft yet the cups have a decent structure to provide adequate yet comfortable support.
Whilst the material is great for leak-proofing, our tester did mention that it had a swimming-costume type feel to it, which some might not like compared to others. However, there is good stretch in this nursing bra and it moulds to your body for comfort.
Pros
- Crafted from soft, breathable fabric
- It has a leak-proof layer to keep you dry and secure
- It's practical and stylish
Cons
- The material might not be comfortable for some
Do I need a maternity or nursing bra?
Maternity and nursing bras offer a different level of comfort and support to your body, so while they're not necessary through pregnancy, they can be more comfortable, and helpful if breastfeeding when baby is born.
They're handy when thinking about what to wear in labour too. We know how hard it is to feel like 'yourself' when you have a new baby, but getting the foundations right with a good bra is the first step. You can even find ones that double up as breast pump bras too.
The National Childbirth Trust advises that an ill-fitted bra can cause poor posture, back pain and neck pain, and blocked ducts which can lead to mastitis. So, it is really important to find the right bra for you.
What are the benefits of wearing a maternity bra?
Comfort
Arguably, the most important element of a maternity (or nursing) bra is making yourself comfortable. Wearing the correct bra reduces so many issues, including back pain or strain. Maternity bras are able to provide that little bit extra help when your breasts start to change.
Clips for breastfeeding
Maternity bras often have clips at the front, that allow the bra to be folded down to make easier access for breastfeeding.
Protection
A maternity bra will be better suited at holding in breast cups or pads as opposed to traditional bras.
When should I start wearing a maternity bra?
As maternity or nursing bras are designed to handle the changing shapes of your breasts, there is no set time for starting to wear a maternity bra. We recommend looking at purchasing within the first few weeks of pregnancy. This is because your breasts will begin to change shape between eight and 10 weeks.
How do I pick a maternity bra?
We spoke to Felicity Savage, Associate Designer at Bravado Designs, for her tried-and-true shopping guide on maternity and nursing bras.
• There must be a stretch in the cups for your changing breast size during your pregnancy.
• Support in the band should be snug but not uncomfortable because this is where most of the support in your bra comes from. For a daytime bra, look for adjustability in the band, so it can accommodate your expanding rib cage as your tummy grows. If you're wearing a bra at night, go for a band that doesn't have hooks and eyes so that it's flat for comfortable sleep.
• Look for wider straps to help comfortably distribute the weight of your breasts.
For nursing bras specifically, stretch is important, top boxes to tick include:
• Full breast access through a drop-down or pull-away cups for essential skin-to-skin contact with your baby
• Nursing clips that you can unfasten and refasten one-handed are important for when you have a baby in your arms or if you're half asleep.
• Wide bottom band, which is where you will get most of your support.
• A non-underwire design during the first few weeks of breastfeeding, as underwires can lead to clogged milk ducts. You may also prefer a breast pump bra instead.
• Layers in the cup, such as a removable foam insert or a double layer of the fabric, provide a smooth silhouette and nipple discretion.
To determine how well your bra fits you, check for the following:
Rib band
• This should sit parallel to the floor. If the band rides up in the back, it's too big.
• You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably underneath. If you can fit more than 2 fingers, it's too loose.
Cups
• The fabric in the cup should be smooth with adequate coverage. If there is puckering or extra room, it's too big. If the top edge cuts into the breast, it's too small.
• Breast tissue should not spill out of the sides of the bra.
Straps
• If the straps are slipping off, they should be tightened, or a smaller cup size may be needed.
• The shoulder straps should anchor the bra without providing support.
• If the straps are digging in, they should be loosened, or a larger cup size may be needed.
Samantha Ball is a Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby, having written for the brand since 2018. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best and current trending products for little ones and for cute seasonal outfits.