Lingerie to linger over: support bras
One of the problems, and bonuses, of pregnancy is that your breasts
will become bigger and heavier throughout the 40 week period. The typical
woman will gain an extra two inches under the bust and two inches across
the bust during pregnancy, while her breasts can become 1½lbs heavier.
Find out what to look for in a support bra and how to ensure that you
get the right fit.
Why do I need a support bra?
It's essential to wear a good supporting bra from six to eight weeks of pregnancy onwards.
Your breasts will become progressively larger and heavier, putting a strain on the supporting, non-elastic tissues. If you don't lift some of the weight from these ligaments, they will stretch and your breasts will sag permanently.
Your lower ribs will also lift upwards and outwards to provide more space in
the abdomen for your growing baby. As a result, your chest size will increase
throughout pregnancy, and you may need to buy a second, bigger bra later
on.
What to look for
When you are choosing a support bra, look for:
- Adjustable fastening to allow for growth
- High cotton content to keep you cool
- Wide straps without too much stretch to spread the weight, and prevent sagging
- A wide band under the cups, so that it doesn't cut into you
- Soft styling without underwiring, which may press against the delicate breast tissues
Get the right fit
- Fit the bra on the tightest eye position to allow the bra to grow with you
- Ensure that the breast is well supported in the cup; if the cup isn't smooth, it's too big
- Check the overall fit of the bra: if it's riding up at the back, it's too small
- It's best to be fitted by a trained bra fitter (available in most high street stores
and lingerie shops).
- If you are ordering by mail order you will need to measure carefully
to get the correct size
- You need two measurements: one directly under your breasts, and around the fullest part of your breasts. To find your bra size, add approximately four inches to your
under-chest measurement
- To find your cup size, look at the difference between the two
measurements. You'll find an excellent chart to help you work out your size at www.royce-lingerie.co.uk.
- If you require a particularly large bra, Rigby & Peller will make one for you - at a price!
Where to buy
Where to next?
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