What to Wear While Nursing

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

07 Jul 2009 08:23 AM

Just when you got out of the maternity wear and were looking forward to normal clothes again, you suddenly realized that many of those normal clothes are the last thing that you can wear while nursing. But don't worry, it isn't that bad. There are a lot of options to explore. And at least you won't have to worry about that stretchy pants panel!

While you can go out and purchase clothing specifically made for nursing, it isn't easy to find stylish and inexpensive nursing clothes. In fact, I had very few items that were specially made for nursing. First, I would recommend some nursing bras. Choose good quality bras and skip the under wire bras, since it can interfere with your milk production.

Choose darker colors or prints over lighter colors. Darker colors make it easier to hide leaks and the outline of breast pads. For this same reason, avoid anything that clings.

I found it easiest to wear a loose sweater that could easily be pulled up from my waist. The extra material and the baby blocked any view of my mommy tummy. If the weather is cold, simply wear a t-shirt underneath. If you cut out large slits or the entire front top of the t-shirt, then you can tuck it in at your waist but still give your baby access to the breast.

If you do choose nursing tops, make sure that they either have an extra panel over the front or the slits stay closed with velcro. Otherwise the slits may gap and inappropriate times.

Skip the one piece dresses or other clothing, or you will be forced to undress in order to nurse your baby. I had to do this once for a formal occasion, and it just wasn't pretty. Either go with two pieces or invest the money in a dress that is specially made for nursing.

Related Articles:

Nursing with Switch Feeding

How to Increase Your Milk Supply

Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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