Hello! My name is Kathryn and I am the NCT Bra Fitter for the Chiltern Branch. I have first hand experience of the need for a well fitting Nursing Bra – I have breastfed my four children, and am the owner of multiple Nursing Bras from high street shops over the years, but the best-fitting was fitted from the NCT for my first baby. At my training course I was impressed by the even better fit the new NCT Bras provide ten years on – and now they look great too! I am able to provide fitting services by appointment only and usually at NCT affiliated groups.

Here are a few questions that often get asked:

• When should I get fitted for my breastfeeding bras?

You should aim to have your bra fitted at around 36 weeks pregnant.

• How do I know that it will fit me once I have had my baby?

Well we don’t know for sure but what we do know is that your breasts will get bigger once your milk comes in and that once your baby is born your rib cage will get smaller over a few days and weeks. So when your bra is fitted we allow for that, which means that we need to see enough room in the cup for expansion and enough spare hooks on the back of your bra so that you can tighten it as your ribcage gets smaller.

• My current bra is beginning to feel to tight but I only have a few weeks to go and I don’t want to buy a new bra, is there anything I can do?

Yes, you could buy an extension piece for your current bra. Essentially this is four extra rows of eyes and an extra row of hooks to go in the back of your bra and provide you with extra breathing space. They are available in black and white, 2 and 3 rows high.

• How do I arrange to get a bra fitted?

If you are attending an NCT antenatal course, then I will introduce myself via your teacher during one session, and if wanted I can provide a one-off fitting for the group hosted by a member of the group (depending on location and availability). If this does not apply to you, please feel free to contact me to arrange an appointment separately.

• How quickly can I get a Bra once I have been measured?

I carry a small stock of new bras in varying colours and sizes. If I have a bra in your size you can take that one there and then. If I order you a bra it will be delivered to me within 3-4 workings days, it is then up to you if you wish for me to post it to you (with a small charge) or arrange to pick it up at a baby group the following week. In certain circumstances I can occasionally hand-deliver.

• Do I have to be a member of NCT for you to fit my bra?

No, I can fit bras for any pregnant or breastfeeding woman.

• Surely I can just wear a normal bra and pull it down or lift it up to feed my baby?

There is a possibility of causing blocked ducts by the bra pressing on your breast tissue when it is pulled down or lifted up. Nursing bras are especially designed to allow discreet and comfortable feeding.

• How much money do you make from selling these bras?

Absolutely none, I do this on a voluntary basis as do all NCT bra fitters.

To arrange a no-obligation fitting please contact me on nctbrafittingchiltern@gmail.com