Are padded nursing bras with underwire bad for you and your milk supply?

Question

Someone told me to avoid buying padding nursing bras with underwire because it can make my milk supply bad. Any truth?

Answer

Here's the deal: IF your underwire doesn't fit properly it can mess with your supply by messing with your milk ducts. (I work in intimate apparel)

Most people DO NOT get fit so their bras- regular and nursing- don't fit properly. Here's what you need to look for:
-an underwire that hits where your breast meets chest and does not hit on breast in the center. *not* in your armpit or on your breast tissue
-a band that is snug- you should be able to fit two fingers sideways under it; but not more. More than that means you aren't getting the support from the band
-a little bit of room IF you go to get fit "empty" or just slightly snug if you're "full". You don't want there to be too much room in your cup!

Answer

Anything that can create a pressure spot is dangerous for your supply and can result in mastitis. That being said- I was a 36DD when my oldest was nursing. I went to motherhood maternity and got properly fitted for an underwire bra because those babies needed support.  My recommendation would be to stick to soft nursing bras until after you are sure what size you will be (they'll change a dozen times between first trimester and 6 week post partum), then invest in good, high quality well fitted underwire if you need it.

Are padded nursing bras with underwire bad for you and your milk supply?

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