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Expert Q&A

	By Ann Calandro BSN, RNC, IBCLC Lactation Consultant

Is it OK to wear underwire bras throughout my pregnancy?

During pregnancy your breasts will be increasing in size. It is a greatideato wear a comfortable, well-fitted bra during pregnancy, one that does notleave any red areas on your skin from the pressure of being too tight.Examine your breasts and shoulders when removing the bra at night and noticeif you see any problem areas. If you do, your bra is too tight or fittedincorrectly. During pregnancy a well-fitted underwire bra will probably befine. If you are planning to breastfeed, you may want to choose braswithout underwires during your nursing years. Some mothers have reportedproblems with clogged ducts from the wires putting pressure onto the milkducts. Remember that milk ducts radiate down from the chest wall and theunderarm area towards the nipple. Many moms are surprised to know that theirmilk ducts extend from the underarm, and a wire coming up under the armcould put pressure on the milk ducts, causing problems. A well-fitted brais important during nursing. Most mothers do not wear a bra at night, whichis probably a great idea in most cases, removing all the pressure from thebreast tissue. Sagginess of the breasts in later life is not caused by notwearing a bra during nursing!

Ann Calandro,RNC,IBCLC"

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