All the best maternity underwire bras for pregnancy and nursing

Discovering the best maternity underwire bras can be a game-changer for expectant mamas seeking both support and style during pregnancy. With the plethora of options available, it’s essential to find one that not only fits well but also provides the necessary comfort without compromising on aesthetics. Whether you’re in the early stages of pregnancy or closer to your due date, the right underwire bra can make a significant difference in your daily comfort and confidence. Honestly, once your breasts start getting bigger and your body shape changes including your rib cage (yes, you read that right!) things can get really uncomfortable really fast.

Why consider maternity underwire bras?

Maternity underwire bras are specifically designed to offer superior support and accommodate the changing breast size throughout pregnancy. Unlike regular bras, they come with features such as wider straps, additional hook-and-eye closures for adjustability, and cups that expand for growth. Understanding the difference between maternity and nursing bras is crucial, as maternity bras focus on comfort during pregnancy, while nursing bras are designed for postpartum use with features for breastfeeding convenience. You’ll probably find nursing bras without wires really comfortable but, for those of us with bigger busts in particular, underwires are a gamechanger.

Many pregnant women wonder about the safety of wearing underwire bras during this period. The concern often revolves around whether underwire bras can restrict breast tissue and potentially affect milk production or lead to discomfort. However, with advancements in design, many maternity underwire bras now offer the perfect blend of support and flexibility, ensuring there is no undue pressure on the milk ducts while still providing the necessary lift and separation.

Our top reviewed selection of maternity underwire bras

Best supportive underwire maternity bra for everyday use

This bra combines comfort with exceptional support, making it ideal for daily wear. Designed to grow with you, it features adjustable straps and multiple hook-and-eye closures to accommodate size changes throughout pregnancy. The underwire is encased in a soft, breathable fabric to prevent any discomfort.

Best lace-detail maternity underwire bra

Add a touch of elegance to your maternity wardrobe with this beautifully designed lace-detail bra. Not only does it provide the needed support, but it also features soft, stretchable lace that adapts to your changing body, ensuring a perfect fit at every stage of pregnancy.

Top chic seamless maternity underwire bra

For those seeking a smooth silhouette under tight-fitting clothes, this seamless maternity bra is a must-have. It offers the support of an underwire without any visible lines, thanks to its smooth, stretchy fabric that hugs your curves for a flattering fit.

Best plus-size maternity underwire bra

Designed with the needs of plus-size mothers in mind, this bra offers unparalleled support and comfort. It features wider straps, a reinforced underwire area for extra support, and cups that provide full coverage while still being stylish and feminine.

Lightweight maternity underwire sports bra

Stay active and supported with this lightweight maternity sports bra. It’s designed for exercise and everyday wear, offering the flexibility and support needed to keep up with your active lifestyle during pregnancy.

Most beautiful full-coverage underwire maternity bra

This full-coverage bra is designed to provide utmost support and beauty, featuring cups that fully encompass the breast for a secure fit. Its elegant design and superior comfort make it a top choice for expecting mothers seeking both functionality and style.

Sexiest underwire bra for pregnancy

Who says maternity bras can’t be sexy? This racerback underwire bra proves otherwise, offering a flattering fit that enhances your cleavage while providing the necessary support. Its soft fabric and comfortable underwire ensure you don’t have to compromise on comfort for style.

Best rated plunge bra to help you feel and look incredible

Designed for the summer months and low cut tops, this bra doesn’t only look fabulous but provides excellent shaping and contouring under your tank thanks to its plunge shape and comfortable design.

Best underwire maternity bra with side support

Featuring extra side support, this exquisite maternity bra ensures your comfort throughout the day. The side panels provide additional support and shaping, while the underwire design offers a lifted and secure fit, making it perfect for those seeking extra assurance.

Best soft-cup underwire bra

For those who prefer a softer cup without sacrificing support, this divine soft-cup maternity bra is ideal. It combines the comfort of a soft cup with the structure of an underwire, offering a seamless blend of support and softness.

Top lace maternity underwire bra

Sexy and lacy but still offering the support you need as a nursing mom, the Heroine plunge works hard while having you feel amazing wearing it.

Best dual-purpose maternity and nursing underwire bra

This innovative design combines the functionality of both a maternity and nursing bra, equipped with an underwire for support. It offers convenience for breastfeeding postpartum without sacrificing the support needed during pregnancy.

Best strapless maternity underwire bra

Perfect for special occasions or outfits that require a strapless option, this exquisite strapless bra offers the support of an underwire without the need for straps. It features a silicone grip to ensure it stays in place, giving you the freedom to wear off-the-shoulder and strapless styles with confidence.

Should you wear underwire bras when pregnant?

Deciding whether to wear underwire bras during pregnancy is a common concern among expectant mothers. The key is to choose bras that offer support without restricting breast growth or causing discomfort. Modern maternity underwire bras are designed with flexible wires and extra padding to ensure they adapt to your changing body without compressing the breast tissue, which is crucial for maintaining comfort and promoting healthy milk duct development.

It’s essential to get professionally measured regularly throughout your pregnancy to ensure the bra fits correctly. As your body changes, so will your bra size. A well-fitted underwire maternity bra can provide the necessary support for growing breasts, reduce back pain, and prevent strain on the shoulders, making it a worthwhile consideration for pregnant women seeking comfort and style.

Why shouldn’t you wear underwire when pregnant?

While underwire bras can offer significant support, there’s a debate about their suitability during pregnancy. The concern lies in the potential for underwire to press against the developing milk ducts, which could lead to blocked ducts or mastitis, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when the breasts are more susceptible to changes and milk production begins. Additionally, an ill-fitting underwire bra can cause discomfort and restrict the natural growth of breast tissue.

However, with advancements in maternity wear, many underwire bras now come with features specifically designed to accommodate the needs of pregnant women, such as wider straps, softer lining, and more adjustable settings. If you choose to wear an underwire bra, ensure it’s specifically designed for maternity use and that it fits well, avoiding any that dig in or compress the breasts too much.

How many bra sizes do you go up when pregnant?

The number of bra sizes you go up during pregnancy can vary widely among women. On average, expectant mothers may find themselves needing to size up 1 to 3 cup sizes and possibly expanding their band size by one or two inches. This change usually occurs gradually throughout the pregnancy and can continue into the breastfeeding period, as the breasts prepare for milk production.

To manage these changes, it’s advisable to invest in bras that offer a range of adjustabilities, such as those with multiple hook-and-eye closures and adjustable straps. Maternity bras designed to grow with you can accommodate these size fluctuations, ensuring you’re supported and comfortable at every stage of your pregnancy.

What is the difference between a maternity bra and nursing bra?

Understanding the distinction between maternity and nursing bras is essential for making informed choices about your pregnancy and postpartum wear. Maternity bras are designed to provide support during pregnancy when a woman’s breasts are growing and changing. They often feature wider straps, extra hooks, and stretchable fabric to accommodate size fluctuations without compressing the breast tissue.

Nursing bras, on the other hand, are specifically designed for use after the baby is born, with convenient features for breastfeeding, such as clips or panels that allow easy access to the breasts. While some bras are designed to serve both functions, it’s important to choose the type that best suits your current stage and needs, ensuring comfort and functionality.

When should you start wearing maternity bras?

The right time to switch to maternity bras varies for each woman but is typically recommended when you notice your current bras no longer fit comfortably due to pregnancy-related changes. This can happen as early as the first trimester for some, while others may not need to make the switch until the second trimester. Pay attention to signs like feeling restricted, experiencing discomfort around the underbust or shoulders, or if the underwire starts to dig in.

Maternity bras are designed to accommodate these changes, providing extra support and flexibility. Opting for a maternity bra early on can help alleviate discomfort and support your growing breasts properly. It’s also a good idea to get measured periodically throughout your pregnancy to ensure you’re wearing the correct size