During pregnancy, it becomes inevitable to have bigger and heavier breasts. This usually happens at around eight to ten weeks and it also becomes the time to replace ordinary bras. A simple rule in determining the best time to purchase a maternity bra is when wearing a normal bra begins to feel uncomfortable. In some cases, they are not only heavy but sore as well. To prevent them from being stretched, as these only have ligaments and no muscles, an expecting mom should make sure that the bra worn gives the proper support.

A maternity bra is often interchanged with a nursing bra. However, there is a slight difference between these two as maternity bras are specially created to accommodate the expansion of the breasts as these grows in size throughout the pregnancy.

The following are the factors to consider when shopping for the ideal maternity bra.

1. For extra support, the straps (preferably firm and elastic), sides and under-bust band should be wide. A deep center on the front can give added support as well. Such straps can prevent digging into the shoulders.

2. As breasts become more sensitive, there is a need to consider the coverage of the fabric around the breast area. Full coverage gives added comfort.

3. It is known that breasts expand in size throughout the course of pregnancy. This brings about the need to consider the overall adjustability of the maternity bra. It is recommended that four rows of eyes (hook and eye) in the back at a minimum will suffice to permit the bra to grow with the expecting mom. It is not advisable to purchase a loose fitting bra to allow expansion in the later months of pregnancy. One has to keep in mind that buying a bra is primarily for providing sufficient support.

4. It is often the case that pregnant women feel hot. Thus, maternity bras made of cotton fabric will allow the skin to breathe more freely and prevent sweating.

The following are some tips when trying on the maternity bra before the actual purchase.

1. Check if the cups adequately cover the breast and has ample depth. Make sure that there is no breast overflow on top of the cup.

2. If one is buying an underwire bra, check that no part of the breast will be in direct contact with the underwire to prevent any kind of pressure on the breast which can affect breastfeeding. In addition, stay away from rigid underwire and opt for flexible plastic support which are now readily available. Rigid underwire can add pressure on the breast as it expands during the day when milk is present and reduces when milk is not present. This pressure may result in blocked milk ducts.

3. To determine a good fitting bra, make sure that the back is level or parallel. It is no good to have the straps too tight which will only result to digging on the shoulder blades and thus, providing no support at all.

4. One needs to see that the center seam is comfortably against the breast bone. This will contribute to a good fit.

5. Since maternity bras are designed to expand throughout the course of pregnancy, it is recommended that when buying a bra early in the pregnancy to make sure that the bra fastens on the first row of eyes (hook and eye) to leave room for adjusting in the later part of the pregnancy.

6. It is always best to consult a professional in getting the correct fit of the bra.