Maternity Bra Guide
Sometimes called pregnancy bras, maternity bras are exactly that – bras you wear during pregnancy. Many are designed to offer flexible, comfortable support as your body changes, but really, any bra that fits well and feels good can work.
This guide covers what to look for in a maternity bra, and when you might want to switch. If you’re thinking ahead to feeding, or your baby has already arrived, take a look at our nursing bra guide too.
And if it helps to see things brought to life, this short video is a lovely place to start. Put your feet up, pop the kettle on and we’ll walk you through what to expect, how your body might change, and how we can support you along the way.
If your usual bras don’t feel right
If your usual bra is starting to feel tight or uncomfortable, or your boobs have changed, it might be time to try something more flexible.
This could be a non-wired or flexi-wired bra (a softer, more flexible underwire), but an underwired bra can still work too – as long as it’s comfortable and you’re checking the fit regularly to make sure nothing’s digging in.
If you’re unsure about your fit, our bra fitting guide can help you spot the signs and find what feels right.
What to look for
Soft, stretch fabrics can help reduce irritation and adapt to your changing shape, while a good maternity bra should feel comfortable, supportive and easy to adjust as you grow.
Many women also prefer wider straps for extra support, more hooks for flexibility, and non-wired styles for a softer feel. Others opt for sleep bras, bralettes or crop top styles for all-day comfort.
Choosing something that lasts beyond pregnancy
Towards the end of pregnancy, lots of women find that a nursing bra ticks all of these boxes – with the added bonus of drop-down cups for feeding.
We’d usually recommend waiting until around 36–37 weeks to buy, as you’re more likely to get a good fit once your baby arrives.
Fitters’ top picks
Our fitters know a thing or two about what makes a great maternity bra – here are the styles they keep coming back to:
Ultimate Comfort Nova Wrap Bra
“I recommend this bra to all new and expecting mums – it’s made from super-soft jersey fabric, it’s non-wired, and the cross-over cups are brilliant for feeding without the faff of clips!” Ellie, Fitter, Birmingham Shop
Cora Bralette
“This bra is so comfy – the wide band makes it really supportive and the cups are beautifully soft. Lots of women love the flexible sizing (so there’s room to grow), and the touch of lace makes it feel really pretty.” Brodie, Fitter, Glasgow Shop
Ada Nursing Bra
“The Ada bra is non-wired and non-padded, with a stretch lace top cup that flexes with you as your shape changes. It’s really supportive and comfortable, with drop-down cups for easy feeding.” Emily, Online Fitter
Let’s get you fitted
Your size can change throughout pregnancy, so it’s a good idea to get fitted regularly. If you’re unsure about your fit or just want a bit of guidance, our friendly fitters are specially trained in maternity and nursing fittings. We’ll help you feel comfortable, supported and confident, whatever stage you’re at – and you won’t even need to take your bra off!
More frequently asked questions
A maternity bra is simply a bra you wear during pregnancy. It can be any bra that fits well and feels comfortable, though many are designed to offer more flexible support as your body changes. Some women prefer non-wired styles, while others continue wearing underwired bras – it’s completely up to you.
You can switch to a maternity bra whenever your usual bras stop feeling comfortable. Some women do this early on, while others wait until later in pregnancy – it all depends on how your body changes.
Your bra size can change quite a bit during pregnancy, and you may find you go through a few different sizes as your boobs and ribcage expand. It’s a good idea to keep checking your fit regularly so you stay comfortable and supported.
Not sure if your bra still fits the way it should? Take a look at our bra fitting guide or get in touch if you’d like a bit of help.
The signs of a good fit are the same as usual – your bra should feel comfortable and not dig in anywhere. One thing to keep in mind is fastening new bras on the tightest hook, so you’ve got room to adjust as your body changes.
If you’re unsure, our bra fitting guide can help, or you can chat to us for advice.
Yes – it’s completely your choice. If your bra fits well and feels comfortable, you can continue to wear an underwired style.
If you’ve been advised by your doctor or midwife to avoid wires, it’s best to follow that guidance. Otherwise, the most important thing is that nothing is digging in and that you’re getting the right support as your body changes.
If you need help, why not visit us in store or chat with us online and we’ll help you find a style that works for you.
Yes! Non-wired bras can feel softer and more flexible as your boobs grow, and many women find them especially comfortable in later pregnancy. Sleep bras and bralettes are also great options for all-day comfort.
Many women choose non-wired bras in the early days after birth, as your boobs can change quickly as your milk comes in. Softer, more flexible styles can feel more comfortable and less restrictive during this time. If you’re breastfeeding, we usually recommend wearing a non-wired nursing bra for at least four weeks after your baby arrives.
Pregnancy can be a big adjustment, and it’s not unusual to feel a bit disconnected from your body at times. Focusing on comfort can make a real difference, whether that’s choosing softer, more flexible bras or getting fitted regularly so nothing feels tight or uncomfortable. It’s all about finding what feels right for you as your body changes.
This really depends on whether you’re breastfeeding or not. If not, your boobs will usually settle within a couple of weeks and may return to your regular size over time.
If you are breastfeeding, your boobs will often start to reduce once you’ve fully weaned, though this can take a little while.
Either way, your boobs might not look or feel quite the same afterwards – it’s all part of finding your new normal. Regular fittings can help you stay comfortable and feel supported as things change.
If you’re planning to breastfeed, take a look at our nursing bra guide for advice on styles designed for feeding.