Avoid underwire bras or bras that are too tight while breastfeeding, as both can affect your milk ducts and your milk production. For a good pumping bra you will need:
✔️ Comfort: A good pumping bra shouldn’t cut into your shoulders or ribs. It should be snug, but not so tight that you can’t sit or move comfortably.
✔️ Stretching: Lactation consultant Dukas-Janakos prefers bras in sizes small, medium, large, etc. to account for the fact that breastfeeding women don’t stay the exact same size all day long — their size fluctuates. “That’s why stretch is important,” she said. “While there are brands that make bra extenders, most people don’t want to mess with that. They want a bra that stretches.”
✔️ Stability: The sole purpose of a pumping bra is to allow hands-free control of breast shields and bottles. The bra should hold the pumping equipment firmly without feeling wobbly or slippery. Make sure you can move, sit, stand up and lean forward without the breast shields or bottles falling off.
✔️ Versatility: The ideal pumping bra can be used with both a traditional pump and a portable pump in addition to breastfeeding. “Most people get their traditional pump from their insurance and then buy a portable version as well,” Dukas-Janakos said. Portable pumps can theoretically be worn in almost any bra type, but a supportive pumping bra should be specifically designed to stretch to fit.
