Whether you were born with a bigger bust or have acquired one after becoming a mother, selecting the right bra can be tricky. If you are expecting and looking for something that can properly handle the girls, you may be wondering if there’s a difference between a plus-sized bra and a plus-sized maternity bra.
Of course, there is! As always, finding the best fit for you can quickly become a struggle, and everything depends on your unique situation. Let’s take a look at the differences between these bras and pick the perfect fit for you.
Baby or no baby? The difference between Plus Size and Maternity
If you become pregnant, it might come as a bit of a shock when your breasts start to balloon up. This might not happen to every woman, but many do see an increase in the girls. When it comes to selecting a bra, there are some pretty significant differences between plus size and maternity plus size bras.
The sizes read and fit the same; a 40DDD will be the same in maternity as it is with a typical bra. Both types have enhanced support, adjustable straps, smoothing panels, different designs, and extra durability.
However, maternity bras have a few additional perks that are great for a mom-to-be, especially if she plans breastfeeding. If you don’t plan on breastfeeding, you can probably opt for just a regular plus size bra and get a fitting.
If you want a few of the motherly perks, here are five benefits to going with a maternity bra.
1. Unlatch Away
Most maternity bras have a handy little feature for nursing moms. You can easily unclip the cup from the bra strap and feed your little one wherever you go. This is great for easy access to the boob, and under the right top, the baby can access milk from pretty much anywhere.
All you need to do is pull your shirt aside, unlatch the cup from the strap, and let your baby do their thing. Some maternity bra designs also open from the bottom.
Both styles are excellent for when your baby needs food now, or if you need to pump. The cups offer great support, like a typical bra, but they offer way more in functionality. So, if you plan on breastfeeding or pumping, this option is perfect.
2. Split Down the Middle
Okay, so you have the latch - but that won’t do much if your whole bra comes off. Maternity bras typically have a separation between the cups. You don’t have to unlatch and unleash the girls all at once to feed your child. Maternity bras make it easy to lower one cup at a time.
It should be noted that not all maternity bras are built like this. Usually, if you pick up a bra that isn’t intended as sports, lounge, or sleepwear, it will have clips for each cup and each side can be lowered one at a time.
3. Extra Padding
Whether you breastfeed or not, you may experience a little leakage, even before your baby is born! Don’t worry; maternity bras are built for that. Extra padding is a usual addition to maternity bras that have nothing to do with adding any extra volume.
The additional padding does more than just catch a few drops. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can do a number on your nipples, and the padding can provide relief against soreness or chafing. Trust us, every little bit helps.
4. Plenty of Bedtime Bras
There are specific bras for nursing overnight, whether they are soft cotton bras with latches or wire-free wrap design. These are amazing for breastfeeding moms that just need a little ease after welcoming a newborn.
Sometimes these bras are great just to stop the leaking or to keep your sore boobs from bouncing around in your sleep. Regardless, you may be thanking yourself during and after your pregnancy for picking one up.
5. They Look Like a Normal Bra!!!
Sleep bras, wire-less, underwire, it doesn’t matter which bra you’re looking at; maternity bras look just like regular bras.
They come in different fabrics and designs, and if you didn’t notice the latches, it would be difficult to tell them apart from a normal bra. The big difference is that they are more accessible and built for breastfeeding or pumping mothers.
Which Bra is Right for You?
Choosing between a plus-sized or a plus-sized maternity bra is entirely dependent on your life and plan for your baby. If you don’t plan on breastfeeding or pumping, it may make sense to purchase a plus size bra to accommodate your growing girls. If you want the other benefits maternity bras offer, like the extra padding or the additional options, you can always buy one and call it a day.
If you are on the fence, there’s no reason you can’t pick one up since they look just like any other bra. When it comes down to it, the best bra is the one that fits like a dream.
Lift, Shape, and Support With Comfort and Style
