The best (and comfiest) maternity bras for pregnancy and nursing in 2025
Tender breasts are often one of the first signs of pregnancy, so it makes sense to invest in a comfortable maternity bra long before you start picking out nursery wallpaper. Plus, if you choose to breastfeed, you'll be unlatching your boobs in the pub/gym/playground to feed your new baby before you know it, so it pays to be prepared, comfortable and supported.
The next question is, when should you switch to a maternity bra? Followed by is underwire bras really a no-no? And, why is it so hard to find functional underwear that looks good too?
We bring you the lowdown on the best, comfiest and prettiest nursing bras for pregnancy and breastfeeding, including where to shop the supportive underwear essential for parents.
Best maternity and nursing bras to shop now
In a hurry? Here are the best nursing bras at a glance. Keep scrolling for the full list.
When should you switch to a maternity bra?
Maternity bras are designed to cater to your changing shape throughout pregnancy.
Once your baby arrives you can then graduate to a breastfeeding or nursing bra, which is worn postpartum to help you feed your baby. However, many brands now cater to both, so you can wear your favourite new bra as your pregnancy develops and beyond.
'There’s no specific timeframe for when you should start wearing a maternity bra,' says Jill Faulkner, Learning and Development Manager at our fave mum and baby boutique JoJo Maman Bébé.
'However, many pregnant women purchase new bras within the first few weeks of pregnancy to allow for their changing shape, which often happens between the 8-10 weeks stage,' she added.
19 best maternity bras for pregnancy and nursing
With the help of our panel of mum testers, we’ve picked out the best seamless, supportive, functional and stylish maternity and nursing bras on the market, leaving you to focus on your growing bump.
Popular retailers to head to shop the best maternity bras to wear during your pregnancy and nursing include Bravissimo, Hotmilk Lingerie, M&S, John Lewis, and Amazon.
Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra
The fact I kept wearing this brilliant Bravado bra for 18 months postpartum should be proof enough that it's going to get a great review. Designed to mould to your body for chafe-free comfort, I wore it throughout breastfeeding (and beyond) and credit it with keeping my E cup breasts in check.
The removable foam inserts were a godsend when things got leaky and the super-stretchy fabric definitely adjusted to my changing shape. If you have larger breasts and you're looking for a no-nonsense bra with comfort in mind, buy this in every colour and you won't regret it.
Ultimate Nursing Bra
Bumpsuit is known for crafting the ultimate pregnancy base layer: a super-soft, incredibly stretchy all-in-one that takes all effort out of dressing on foggy-brained mornings, no matter which trimester you’re navigating. Now, the brand has applied that same forensic thinking to postnatal pieces: the Ultimate Nursing Bra is crafted from a supportive yet super-stretchy nylon and Spandex blend that stands up to frequent wear (mine has been chucked in the washing machine multiple times, and still looks brand new) as well as the tugs and contortions required when breastfeeding all day.
Thoughtful details push this one into must-have territory: the shoulder straps are thin and discreet, while the padded cups are removable. The clips are easily released with one hand, and the crossover front makes feeding less fiddly. Finally, the four-track clasp fastening means it’ll flex and grow with you, but note that the cup sizes do run rather small: I’d recommend sizing up if you’re unsure.
Three Pack Seamless Pregnancy Bra with Extenders
This great value seamless nursing bra comes in a three pack so you can wear it on rotation while one is in the wash. Extra points for the bra extenders — back pain is a common postnatal complaint and a bit of extra wriggle room at the end of a long day nursing can make all the difference.
Ballet Maternity Nursing Bra
Pregnancy can be a rollercoaster and it's perfectly normal to wish you could have a break on occasion and feel like your old self. Now you can channel the elegance of a ballet dancer (well, at least try) with this deliciously soft maternity and nursing bra inspired by dance wear that comes in black and rose pink. Lined cups offer extra support and it's so comfortable, you'll be happy to sleep in it too. Lie back and dream of Swan Lake.
Enlighten Nursing Bra
Big busted mamas rejoice! We’ve found the best maternity bra for large breasts, so the days of wearing double bras and ugly crop tops are long gone. Now you can celebrate your fabulous breasts in style (and comfort) and feed your hungry baby too with this gorgeous underwired nursing bra from New Zealand brand Hotmilk.
It's made from soft microfibre fabric to ease sore nipples while the cups are lined with cotton for comfort. And for extra support, the wider straps won't dig into your shoulders. But best of all it still manages to look stylish whatever your bra size.
Modern Cotton Nursing Bra in black
While your favourite denim jeans might not be your best friend right now, you can still indulge your 90s love affair with Calvin Klein thanks to this sporty but chic maternity bra.
Made from super-soft, modal-mix jersey with clip access for easy nursing, you'll be wearing this great bra to yoga class long after you've weaned your little one. Available in four other colours, including grey heather and amethyst.
MAMA 2-pack seamless padded nursing bras
A great everyday bra for small to medium busted mums-to-be, this cotton jersey nursing bra is anything but mumsy. This design boasts adjustable shoulder straps to avoid the digging in as your body changes, padded cups with space for nursing pads too.
Best of all, it comes in a two-pack to see you comfortably through your pregnancy and beyond.
Reimagined Racer Back Maternity Bralette
If you’re used to the comfort of a sports bra, then pregnancy needn’t mean ditching your go-to underwear option. This recycled maternity bralette is made from a cotton and elastane blend, and has subtle concealed hook and eye fastenings at the back.
It wraps over at the front for optimum comfort and, because you have way better things to be doing than hand-washing your undies, it can be chucked in the washing machine too.
Maternity The Comfy Reversible Stretch-Woven Bra
Busy mamas, you’ll be pleased to know that this Selfridges exclusive Bumpsuit maternity bra slips on, making it ideal for getting ready when your little one is getting impatient!
Wave goodbye to digging, as this maternity bra is lightweight, stretchy and elasticated under the band. It needs to be handwashed, but it gives you both a fuller coverage and lower cut option for under clothes.
Maisie Non-Wired Nursing Bra
If you’ve never heard of Royce, then let us introduce you to this everyday T-shirt maternity bra that’s bound to feature heavily on your nursing bra rotation.
With its cotton lining, moulded foam cups and easy-to-use nursing clips, this maternity T-shirt bra is non-wired and made of a comfortable stretch fabric. It’s not hard to see why it’s one of the brand’s bestsellers.
Nursing Bra
Calling all mamas who want a stylish maternity bra for a larger bust! This adidas by Stella McCartney maternity bra can be used prior to your bub being born and well into postpartum life too.
It has a stylish cut-out racer back detail and is made with part-recycled materials. Its trusty open-clip feature is ideal for feeding, and it can be used during a workout or simply while spending a day out with your mini me in tow.
2pk Seamless Full Cup Nursing Bras
One for mamas who prefer a softer structure from their underwear, this simple nursing bra will support you throughout the trimesters. It's wire-free and designed to be discreet under your clothes, but the full cup will give you extra support as your breasts grow during pregnancy. Easy-release clips provide quick access for nursing once your baby arrives, and best of all it comes in a twin pack, so you get two bras for the price of one.
Indie Non-Wired Nursing Bra
On the hunt for a supportive yet wire-free nursing bra to see you through pregnancy and beyond? Thanks to 30+ years in the trade, UK brand Royce know a thing or two about comfort, and this super-cute lace trimmed maternity bra with soft moulded cups will be just the ticket.
Made from skin-soft modal with a sturdy under band (and without a hint of wiring in sight), it manages to combine style with comfort, so all you have to do is focus on your growing baby.
Maternity 2 Pack Black and White Lace Sleep Bras
Proving that you can be pregnant and stylish at the same time, this two-pack from New Look is a super-cute and affordable option for new mums. Both wireless bras have a wrap front and clip-down cups that promise to be supportive and accessible when breastfeeding. It comes in a lace design, which is uber sexy for new mums.
Heroine Nursing Bra
If you can't survive without decent underwiring, this clever flexi-wire bra from Hotmilk will keep your breasts in check. And thanks to lace detailing and a classic balconette style, you'll look a total knockout throughout your pregnancy too.
It's better suited to nights out than everyday wear, but extra flexible wiring and 100% cotton lining will keep you comfortable and supported when you hit the dance floor, and it's available up to cup size H.
Blush Lace Maternity & Nursing Bra
Seraphine ticks all the boxes with this pretty bra. Made in super soft lace and lined with cotton it has a soft scalloped trim, satin straps and a flexible fit. One WH staffer rates this bra highly because it's as close to non-maternity underwear as you can get, plus you can purchase matching pants.
Cotton Maternity & Nursing Bra
If you're starting to feel frumpy and uncomfortable, it's time to invest in the right underwear. Made from smooth organic cotton with a hint of stretch, this classic maternity bra comes in ivory or navy and promises a seamless silhouette under your t-shirt.
Drop cups offer easy nursing and shaping around the cup provides extra support. Plus, it comes in a two pack so you can wear your comfiest bra on rotation.
Natal Active Artemis Nursing Sports Bra
Planning to keep active throughout your pregnancy? This fab sports bra from Natal Active is designed to support your breastfeeding and fitness journey at the same time. It has easy access clips, wide supportive straps and each bra comes with an extender in case you need extra space.
Our mum tester credits it with helping her keep running throughout the trimesters, plus it doubles up as a comfy everyday nursing bra too.
Comfort Bra
bbhugme's Comfort Bra lives up to its name. The seamless, wrap-around style will grow with your breasts as they change during pregnancy. Plus, the supportive and comfortable maternity bra is wire-free and comes with removable pads and easy access for breastfeeding.
It's an all-rounder than we guarantee you'll wear post-birth and beyond.
The benefits of maternity and nursing bras
It may be tempting to throw on your favourite crop top. But, wearing a nursing bra, which has been designed specifically for pregnancy and breastfeeding, comes with a number of benefits:
Breastfeeding
Planning to leave the house? If you opt for breastfeeding, then the right kind of nursing bra is essential once your new baby arrives as you're going to need quick access to your boobs on the move. 'Most nursing bras provide ease of access when feeding or expressing,' explains Faulkner.
Leaky boobs
In the early days before your milk flow settles, your boobs can get leaky. Nursing bras usually come in stretchy breathable material that is big enough to fit breast pads, should you need to soak up excess milk.
Clips
Those all-important clips you find on most maternity bras provide easy access at feeding time, wherever you happen to be!
Comfort
Resist the urge to simply size up your everyday underwear, as comfort is key during pregnancy and beyond.
'Breast tissue is very delicate and sensitive to change,' says Faulkner. 'Wearing a well-fitting bra through pregnancy will help minimise stretching and reduce back pain, as it will help distribute the weight evenly, easing any strain on your neck, shoulders and back.'
Should you avoid underwire bras while pregnant?
Women are often advised to side-step underwire bras during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it’s thought wiring could put pressure on your milk glands.
But if you've always worn a structured bra, departure from the support you're used to may feel like a step too far. While soft cupped bras do tend to be more comfortable, the good news is there is no concrete evidence to suggest underwire bras are bad for your breasts, so as long as you opt for well-fitting underwear you are good to go.
'The wires in regular bras tend to have very little flex in them, meaning they can become restrictive and uncomfortable as your boobs and bump grow,' says Faulkner. 'There’s no clear evidence that underwire bras can cause harm, but they must be measured and fitted correctly regardless of whether the wearer is pregnant or not. The wire should fit flat to the chest wall and extend near to your armpit, encapsulating all of the breast tissue.
'If you prefer extra support, Faulkner recommends investing in a maternity bra with Flexi or gel wires, as she advised 'These wires help reduce concerns such as mastitis and blocked milk ducts,' she adds.
How to measure for a maternity and nursing bra
For help choosing the right bra that will keep you comfortable during pregnancy and breastfeeding, check for the following:
Rib band: This should sit parallel to the floor. 'If the band rides up in the back, it’s too big,' explains Felicity Savage, Associate Designer at Bravado Designs. 'You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably underneath. If you can fit more than two fingers, it’s too loose.'
Cups: The fabric in the cup should be smooth with adequate coverage. 'If there is puckering or extra room, it’s too big,' says Savage. 'If the top edge cuts into the breast, it’s too small. Breast tissue should not spill out of the sides of the bra.'
Straps: The shoulder straps should anchor the bra. 'If the straps are slipping off, they should be tightened, or a smaller cup size may be needed,' she adds. 'If the straps are digging in, they should be loosened, or a larger cup size may be needed.'
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