Healthy Pregnancy Centre

Archive for September 24th, 2009

Welcome back!

The benefits of wearing well fitted, expertly designed maternity lingerie are significant. Comfort, size fluctuation, the ability to un-clasp the fastenings one-handed, no underwire to restrict milk flow and cause conditions such as mastitis are all issues to be considered.

If you’re pregnant for the first time, or if you had an average experience in previous pregnancies with your maternity lingerie, don’t despair – things have progressed! I was unimpressed with the ranges available during the first of my three pregnancies – everything seemed to be black, white or beige, the pregnancy and nursing bras had clumsy fastenings and uncomfortable linings, fabrics were not of the standard I was used to. Thankfully this is no longer the case.

Your body undergoes a myriad of changes during pregnancy, birth and after your baby is born. The maternity lingerie you choose must be able to cater for these changes. And don’t forget it must make you feel gorgeous too. This is a truly feminine time in your life – revel in it! Just as when you buy your regular lingerie you can also buy feminine and fabulous underwear and nightwear.

People generally make three maternity bra purchases during their pregnancy. You will go up in size and this will vary from person to person, but new bras are something you will need to buy. Around the end of your first trimester you will probably notice an increase in your bust measurement. This is the time to go to a professional bra fitter who will expertly identify the size which is correct for you. Make sure you try full and 3/4 cup styles, A-sling and side sling support to ensure your maternity lingerie gives you good support and shape. Yes, this can be achieved without the use of underwire! Matching briefs and French knickers are an ideal way to complete the set and are specifically designed to sit under your “baby bump”.

From early in your pregnancy, your body may also experience temperature variations, particularly at night when you are trying to sleep. Maternity lingerie also encompasses sleepwear which can be worn during pregnancy and because of the shelf support and one-handed maternity clips, are very convenient when the baby arrives and you will probably be feeding regularly at night.

Exquisite and feminine lingerie is still achievable in comfortable, breathable and supportive fabrics. Soft cotton linings and hidden, or no seams, is particularly important for nipples which may become tender during those early days of feeding your newborn. Strong elastene and adjustable back fasteners are important to allow for growth and at around six or seven months, or if you feel any restriction, make sure you are re-fitted. Your bust will increase in size during the early weeks of feeding and settle back down again once a routine is established so the lingerie you buy near the end of your pregnancy will be useable once your baby is born.

Being ready for the arrival of your baby with a newly fitted maternity bra makes life a lot easier, a lot more comfortable and if you choose gorgeous, sexy pregnancy and nursing lingerie, you will feel feminine and fabulous.