A new mother spends a great deal of time in her pajamas or similar lounging clothes. The initial discomfort and stress of breastfeeding can be eased somewhat with comfortable clothing, including pajamas. When choosing breastfeeding pajamas, comfort should be the main priority. Consider also support, accessibility, materials, and style.
Breastfeeding pajamas are constructed for comfort. Choose a set that can provide comfortable attire during the day and night. A pajama set with a separate top and bottom is popular. Try on breastfeeding pajamas at around the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy because that will give you a similar fit to the first few days and weeks after delivery. Make sure the bottoms are not too tight where a C-section scar might be on the abdomen and that the top allows enough room for possibly engorged breasts.
Accessibility is another important feature for a good set of breastfeeding pajamas. The different types of construction include snaps, hidden panels, buttons, and openings covered by folds. The top should not be complicated to operate, especially in the middle of the night when baby is hungry. It is a good idea to try on the top and attempt to open the front with only one hand before purchasing. Some women find that the least complicated opening is best, reducing fumbling in the dark and allowing the mother to go back to sleep quickly.
There are varying degrees of support provided by breastfeeding pajamas, and a nursing mother should choose the level of support based on her individual cup size. Some tops will have a built-in shelf bra that snaps open for nursing or a hidden panel which can be moved aside. While a shelf bra may provide enough support for smaller women, those with larger chests might prefer to wear a nursing bra or sleep bra underneath their breastfeeding pajamas for extra support. The straps of the top should be adjustable, as the support needs change as breasts become engorged and then return to their normal size.
Since the baby will be in such close contact with the pajamas, the material should be soft and natural. It should also be easy to clean, as leaked milk and baby spit-up are likely to end up on the pajamas. Style may be an important factor, helping the mother to feel more like herself after a long pregnancy and delivery. Breastfeeding pajamas that can pass for loungewear may make the mother feel more comfortable when receiving guests during the day.