What You Need for Nursing

Eve Alexander will give you the advice you need for purchasing necessary nursing clothing.

Why nursing clothing?
If you have made the commitment to breastfeed your baby congratulations! This is the best gift you can give your little one! Our goal is to help you identify what you need to make breastfeeding a pleasurable and comfortable experience for you, your partner and your baby.

When should I buy nursing clothing?
We recommend that you utilize the time before giving birth for finding the right nursing styles. You will have more time to focus on selecting the right items instead of rushing with a new baby in tow through stores or making online decisions in a pinch. Many manufacturers like Eve Alexander have designed lines that are for both maternity and nursing, allowing you to maximize the use of your new wardrobe for both pregnancy and post-delivery. You have worked hard on making the nursery perfect, getting your baby the best car seats, clothes and toys. You should make an effort to make breastfeeding as smooth as possible by having your nursing wardrobe prepared when the baby comes.

Nursing Bras
We suggest starting out with at least 3-4 maternity/nursing bras and matching panties to always have a clean and stylish reserve of lingerie available. Invest into at least 2 supportive nursing bras the kind with drop down cups to give access for breastfeeding. You will also need at least 1 sleep bra. These nursing bras are usually lightly constructed to give you more comfort and freedom of movement during the night. This bra is especially useful during early breastfeeding time, when you may want to wear nursing pads. We also recommend at least one nursing sports bra. You may have noticed that your breasts became larger during pregnancy. They will likely remain this size and it is important to give them the necessary support for the times you start working out at the gym, and even for taking walks.

Nursing Sleepwear
Most babies will nurse several times a night during the first few months after birth. Though this sounds daunting to most women that are used to a full night of uninterrupted sleep, it is actually great to be able to nurse. The alternative of having to prepare formula several times a night is hardly a better option, as it require a lot more work and time than simply taking your baby to your breast. Nursing nightgowns or PJ's are therefore a must for any nursing mom. We recommend at least 2 pieces of nursing sleepwear that would let you comfortably sleep and nurse your baby during the night.

Loungewear
Whether its the UPS man delivering flowers, your neighbors stopping in to see the baby, or friends/family bringing in casserole, the last thing you want to do is feel underdressed and having to excuse yourself to run and change. You want to feel comfortable, but not frumpy and maternity/nursing loungewear is perfect for this special time in your life. You may feel like you dont get time to shower very often, but at least you will look put together and stylish! We recommend at least a 3-4 styles of mix and match flattering pants and tops that would let you nurse and be comfortable attending to your baby.

Dresses
You may need to have one nursing dress in your new wardrobe, however we found that stretchable pre-pregnancy skirt and a nursing top will often work for church or other special occasion. If you are set on wearing a dress, however, we do recommend finding a style that is flattering and that accommodates nursing. Select stretchable drapey fabrics that will accentuate your curves and hide post-pregnancy imperfections.

Robes
Invest into one great looking robe that you can wear at the hospital and at home after delivery. This great alternative should be comfortable and flattering, more of a housedress then a bathrobe, to give you maximum versatility and style while at home with the baby in the early weeks after delivery. Opt for flexible style that adjusts with you as your body changes post-partum.

Nursing Ponchos and Cover-ups
Breastfeeding in public can be a daunting experience. You may feel like everyone is staring at you, and the discomfort you feel will translate to your baby, who can become additionally fussy. Many moms use nursing cover-ups that let you discretely nursing in public. The choices are offered in different fabrics, colors and styles, so deciding which one works best for you is a matter of personal preference. We recommend lighter fabric and colors as well as solids rather than prints. This would let your baby be cool and not distracted by the colorful prints that she will be looking at. Keep in mind that some babies refuse to be covered when they are nursing, so you may have to nurse her in the open. Dont worry though, with a little practice, you will be able to help your baby latch on and off without people noticing you are breastfeeding at all.