Packing your hospital bag can be both exciting and stressful because you want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible for when the time comes to go to the hospital. There are so many questions you likely have. What should I pack? When should I pack my hospital bag? How many bags should I bring?
If you're planning to pump at the hospital or considering it, having the best hands-free pumping bra can make all the difference in comfort and convenience, especially since your body is really sensitive during this time. Here are tips on choosing the right pumping bra.
Why You Should Pack A Pumping Bra In Your Hospital Bag
Your hospital stay may be short, but it's an important time for establishing milk production. If your baby is having trouble latching or your milk supply needs extra stimulation, a nurse or lactation consultant can help you navigate these issues with tips and support. A hands-free pumping bra can make pumping more comfortable and convenient by keeping the pump securely in place, allowing you to use your hands for other tasks while expressing milk.
What Features Should A Pumping Bra Have?
Not every pumping bra is the same. Here’s what you should look for in a pumping bra that’s good for the hospital and when you get home.
Easy Nursing & Pumping Access
If you're both nursing and pumping, a versatile pumping bra can make it easier to switch between both without having to change clothes or fully undress. The Larken X is buttery soft and doesn’t have irritating holes, zippers, or clips that can make feeding your baby uncomfortable. Its stretchy fabric allows you to tuck in breast pump flanges easily and securely holds them in place so you don’t have to.
Comfort After Delivery
After giving birth, it's common for your chest, ribcage, and abdomen to feel sore and sensitive. If you had a C-section, you'll also be recovering from a low abdominal incision, making comfort one of the most important things to consider when looking for pumping bras and clothing. The Larken X is wire-free and doesn’t have a tight band that can dig into your skin.
Hands-Free Pumping
Your bra should hold breast pump flanges securely in place so you can pump without having to hold the bottles. The Larken X pumping bra was designed to hold flanges securely in place, so you can multitask while pumping. This makes it easy to transition between breastfeeding and pumping throughout the day while maintaining comfort and support.
Gentle Support
You want a bra that supports hands-free pumping while adapting to your changing needs throughout pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Bras that are too tight on sensitive breasts could cause clogged ducts. Look for a supportive, well-fitting bra like the Larken X, because it holds flanges securely without digging in or compressing breast tissue.
Soft & Breathable Fabric
Soft, breathable fabric is essential in a pumping bra because it helps keep you comfortable during frequent pumping sessions. As your body adjusts to postpartum changes and fluctuating hormones, breathable fabric helps reduce irritation and overheating. The Larken X is OEKO-TEX certified, feels buttery soft against your skin, and is moisture-wicking, so it won’t stick to your sensitive skin, keeping you cool and dry all day and night.
Adapts To Your Changing Postpartum Body
The Larken X is designed to adapt to your changing postpartum body with a soft, flexible fit that moves with you. Because it’s wire-free and is made from stretchy fabric, it can adjust to fluctuations in breast size while supporting hands-free pumping.
Labor & Delivery Hospital Bag Checklist
The days after your newborn's arrival may revolve around nursing, pumping, skin-to-skin time, and recovering in bed, often juggling several of these at once. Whether you're planning to exclusively pump, establish your milk supply, or simply want the flexibility to pump hands-free, packing the right pumping bra for the hospital will make feeding sessions more comfortable and seamless. For a checklist of what you should pack in your labor and delivery bag, we have curated a helpful hospital bag guide. Along with packing your hospital bag, here’s other helpful information as you get ready to welcome your newborn.
FAQs
When should I start packing my hospital bag?
Try to have your hospital bag ready by 36 weeks since labor could happen earlier than expected.
Can I use a regular nursing bra instead of a pumping bra?
A pumping bra is best because it will hold flanges securely in place, making pumping easier so you can multitask and not hold everything yourself.
How many pumping bras should I pack for the hospital?
It’s recommended to pack at least 2 pumping bras in your hospital bag so you have one to wear and a clean one for backup. Save on our Larken X bundle by mixing and matching three of your favorites, or try new colors and get free shipping!
Can I use the same bra for nursing and pumping?
Yes, the Larken X is an all-in-one nursing and pumping bra so you can seamlessly pump whether at home, work, or while running errands.
