Maternity and breastfeeding bras

The NCT sells bras - for maternity wear as well as for breastfeeding - which offer comfort, support and terrific value for money. There are several different colours and a huge size range, from 28 to 44, cup sizes A to L. The bras are particularly good for women with larger breasts: as one grateful mum put it, "At last I've got something comfortable to wear which looks good and doesn't cost a bomb".

We can also provide very inexpensive extension pieces (£2.50 for 2), to help get the perfect fit. You can use extension pieces whilst you are pregnant to give you extra space, saving you from having to buy yet more new bras as your ribcage expands.

Bristol NCT has a trained fitter who is a Breastfeeding Cousellor and understands how to take account of the changes which happen around birth and in the following weeks. (Many shop fitters unfortunately do not receive this specialised training.) So do get in touch with her to arrange a convenient time for a fitting. Around 36/37 weeks is the ideal time to be fitted for a breastfeeding bra, and at any stage if you need a maternity bra or extension pieces. There is no obligation to buy, and no pressure selling - the most important thing is that your bras should fit properly.

If you are interested in looking at mother and baby clothes, equipment, toys etc, do ask for a catalogue - Bristol branch receives 10% commission on anything sold through our fitter, funds which are used by the branch to provide support for local mums and dads ante- and postnatally. To see what is available, check out the website at www.nctshop.co.uk, then contact our fitter, Ruth Bolgar on 0117 9243849

FAQs answered by our fitter

When should I get fitted for my breastfeeding bra?

If it's your first baby then you should aim to be fitted at around 37 weeks, but earlier if you are expecting twins. If it is your second or subsequent baby you can have your fitting earlier, but preferably not before 36 weeks.

How do I know the bra will fit me once I've had my baby?

I can't know for sure, but I know your breasts will get bigger from about day 3 or 4, and that your ribcage will get smaller in the weeks after the birth. When your bra is fitted I allow for these changes.

Why does this bra that I'm wearing keep riding up my back?

Because it's too big in the rib cage and probably also too small in the cup. Try going one size smaller in the ribcage and one size bigger in the cup and see how that feels.

My current bra is beginning to feel too tight but I only have a few weeks to go and I don't want to buy new bras.

You can buy an extension piece for your current bras from me. Essentially this is for extra rows of eyes with a row of hooks to fasten onto the back of your current bra (no sewing required) and provides you with extra breathing space. Extension pieces come in black and white, 2 and 3 rows high, £1.25 each.

How do I arrange a fitting?

If you are part of an antenatal class you could arrange a time and place (someone's home?) for me to come and do a fitting for all the class, in a room set aside for this. If not everyone has reached 36/37 weeks, I can still do a fitting to get an idea of the right size, but I would not want to sell to anyone at that stage. The fitting could be in the evening or during the day. If you are not part of a group you can arrange to come to my home in central Bristol for a fitting. In special circumstances I could come to you. If your baby has arrived early, I might be able to visit you in hospital.

Do I have to be a member of the NCT?

No - this service is available to everyone!

I bought some bras when I had my last baby and I'm not sure if they still fit?

Bring them with you when you come for your fitting and we'll have a look.

What happens if my bra doesn't fit after my baby is born?

This rarely happens, but as long as a bra is not worn or washed, I can exchange it for the correct size.

How many bras should I buy?

I would recommend 2 or 3 daytime bras and 1 or 2 night-time bras.

Do I really need night-time bras?

No, but you are probably going to need something to wear at night to hold your breast pads in place and prevent milk leaking on to the sheets duvet etc. You don't need the hassle of extra washing.

Why can't I wear an under-wired bra?

When you are breastfeeding there is a risk that the wires could press into your breast tissue and cause a blocked duct.

How do I pay?

By cheque or cash.

How much money do you make from selling these bras?

Nothing. I do this on a voluntary basis. All profits from the sale of bras and other items from NCT Sales go back into NCT Charity funds.