The answer to this is a resounding "No"! When I was pregnant with my first baby, I was confronted with this very predicament – it lead me to launching my own maternity and nursing lingerie company. Why should breast feeding bras be boring, often beige and resemble something my elderly grandmother would have worn? Thankfully this is no longer the case!

Breast feeding bras do need to incorporate a number of features in order to provide the comfort, support and functionality necessary during pregnancy and beyond. They should have comfortable shoulder straps, often a little wider than regular lingerie, in order to support breasts which become heavier during this stage. They should be lined with double layers of super soft cotton for comfort, breathability and absorption. You are more likely to experience tender skin, particularly when you are breast feeding. Technologically advanced fabrics, preferably power elastene, should be something you look for when choosing your breast feeding bras. This will support you beautifully, launder well and retain shape, while enhancing yours! One-handed maternity clips are another must when choosing your breast feeding bras, which can and should be worn during pregnancy too. These allow you to support your baby while you open the bra in order to breast feed. Choose a breast feeding bra with no underwire, as this can restrict milk flow, block ducts and lead to unpleasant infections which may require antibiotic intervention. Do ensure your new bra has six rows of hooks and eyes at the back in order to allow you to shift the back adjustors to accommodate the size fluctuation of your diaphragm, which is quite common during both pregnancy and particularly in the early stages of breast feeding when your milk comes in.

All of the above features are incorporated in a most beautiful, sexy and diverse range of maternity and nursing lingerie. A myriad of colours, a variety of fashionable, exquisite fabrics and laces, a choice of cuts and styles to accommodate any occasion. There are ranges of essential, every day breast feeding bras with matching underwear, shapewear and nightwear which make use of smooth, streamlined fabrics in practical palettes but which are still embellished with diamante detailing and satin trims. Maternity lingerie companies, like my own, are dedicated to extensive research regarding fit and functionality but also research which ensures you will have the option to wear fashion forward, exquisite lingerie during your pregnancy and while you are breast feeding.

Remember – you are pregnant, not 90 and you deserve to look and feel sexy and gorgeous at this wonderful, feminine time in your life.