....£5,000 worth of products sent out to 60 testers. 11 manufacturers kindly supplied 220 samples (41 different products). In all TIPS tested three maternity bras, 24 nursing bras, 13 nursing tops and one camisole set (in 2003 I tested 13 bras). Testers completed and returned over 200 score sheets which equates to an amazing return rate of more than 90%. I hope this will provide visitors to the TIPS website with a comprehensive review of maternity and nursing bras and nursing tops. As well as being easy to wear and allowing discreet breastfeeding, these products also look great.
There are other trials out to parent testers as we speak which I will tell you about once they are complete.
I will be busy giving advice at the forthcoming Baby Shows in Glasgow on April 25th-27th and don't forget to drop by to meet the team from HalosnHorns at the Birmingham Baby Show at the NEC on May 16th 17th and 18th. Meanwhile if you have any particular questions relating to your baby or toddlers skin (or any other parenting topic for that matter) then please feel free to email me.
Tips on choosing the right breastfeeding bra:
o Attractive to look at - this matters, but looks alone are no guarantee of an effective nursing bra.
o Supportive - the need for support will vary but there is little point in a bra looking lovely if it doesn't provide suitable support or ease of use.
o Size - does it come in a wide enough range of sizes to fulfil your needs? During pregnancy and breastfeeding it is advisable not to wear under wired bras as these could restrict the breast tissue, leading to blocked ducts. A good supporting bra in the correct size is vital. If possible, get measured for your feeding bra a few weeks before your baby is due. Your breasts have grown to their full size then. During the first few days after your baby's birth your breasts will settle back to that size and your new bras will be the perfect fit. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of trying on a variety of sizes until you are comfortable. Remember to leave room for breast pads.
o Availability - is the bra easy to get hold of? Is it sold in a high street store, by mail order catalogue or online?
o Comfort - this is a must. It is important to try on the bra because you cannot tell how it is going to fit from a picture. This is where high street brands are useful: you can try before you buy. If you do buy mail order or online, make sure the supplier has a good returns policy. Does the supplier provide good advice regarding trained fitters?
o Design - in the early days of breastfeeding, your breasts can be swollen and tender (engorgement). It is very important not to wear a restrictive bra at these times. Straps that are too tight or that cut in at awkward places could lead to a blocked duct. Bras with an inner lining have the potential to cause restriction, so unlined or open designs are especially useful. This allows the breasts to be free from obstruction during feeding (it is interesting to note, however, that the Anna Cecilia easy-zip bra got the highest score in the 2005 nursing bra tests even though it has an inner lining - but this is made out of incredibly stretchy and breathable fabric). Play around with the different features of the bras so that you are familiar with them when you are feeding. This may sound odd but will pay dividends when you find the right bra for you.
o Ease of use - even if a nursing bra feels and looks great, you need to make sure that you will be able to open it easily for feeding. Once again, it is important to try it before you buy it. A one-handed opening device is ideal and allows you to be very discreet if necessary.
o Fabric - is the fabric too thick or too thin? Will it be hot or will the straps dig in? Some sports type nursing bras have an elastic under-bust band. This should not be too tight and should be tried on and tested for comfort. The new breathable microfibre fabrics draw moisture away from the body and are excellent at keeping skin cool and dry.
o New fibres - the fabric of the latest Royce, Sophie bra includes silver thread (called XStatic). This is both antibacterial and anti-odour. Another new addition is bamboo fibre which is used in the Emma-Jane's new nursing tops. This is known to be softer and its moisture-wicking properties draw moisture away from the skin.
o Allergies are becoming more common - NCT now offer latex free fabrics for women who are allergic to latex. These bras use Lycra, which has similar properties to latex and is less likely to cause allergic reactions.
o Putting it on - when your breasts are tender, putting on a bra over your head can be a struggle. It is much easier to have a front or back opening bra. This said, someone recently informed me that they 'step into' their pull-on designed bras - this is a good tip.
o Washing instructions - you will need to wash and dry your breastfeeding bras on an almost daily basis, so it is better if they are machine washable and even better if they go in the tumble dryer. Check the labels. Some manufacturers recommend hand washing even though the bras seem to tolerate machine washing and tumble drying well. It is up to you whether you want to take the risk.
o Information - this does not need to be lengthy, but some accurate information on the bra and about breastfeeding is helpful. Check to see if information is available with the bras. This can be very useful.
o Matching underwear - just because you are breastfeeding does not mean that you need to feel frumpy. There are lots of maternity bras that have lovely pants or thongs to match and come in a variety of colours.
o Price - you will need at least four bras if you are going to breastfeed. With this in mind, choose the bra that best suits your budget. It is also worth remembering that two well-fitting bras will be of more use than four ill-fitting bras.
o Nursing tops - as well as nursing bras over a dozen nursing tops are included in these tests. They can aid discreet breastfeeding when you are out and about.
o Breast pads - when trying on the bras, remember to allow space for the breast pads. It is also helpful to check how visible breast pads are under the bra. Washable pads in 100% cotton or wool are the best and most absorbent. Avoid breast pads with plastic backing which can become hot and sticky. If you would rather use disposable pads, choose those that are biodegradable and breathable. A new design of breast pads (Lilypadz) is now available. These are breathable, transparent, silicone breast pads that fit discreetly under any clothing and work by applying a gentle pressure on the nipples. These pads stops any leakage (yes they really do work!) and can even be worn in the shower or swimming pool. For more information on breast pads see the TIPS test results at www.tipslimited.com
And you thought it was just a matter of buying the first maternity bra that you came across!
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