Over-the-shoulder boulder holder

'After trying a couple of different styles – which offered no support at all – I've gone back to the old faithful bra which supported me through my pregnancy. It's a jogging bra that I whip up over my boobs. It's not discreet but I've lost any hope of being able to coyly breastfeed al fresco.'

Surviving the washing machine
According to Marina, who is weaning her five-month-old daughter from breast to bottle in preparation for returning to work, washability is top priority. 'No matter how thorough you are with your personal hygiene, you're often damp around the boob region.

'In the early weeks I was changing my bra twice a day, despite wearing pads and those little plastic cups to collect milk. I bought two Bravado bras, which have stood up to loads of washing. If you find the perfect maternity bra, I'd advise you to buy a couple as one's always drying on the radiator. And matching knickers are good for self esteem.'

Softness is a thing called...
Comfort-wise, most women appear to prefer a cotton/spandex blend – offering support and breathability (a bonus in the summer months, when, as one woman puts it, 'You can smell a bit cheesy'). Snaps must be easy to open and close, and a sports-style back seems to offer the best support.

Marina adds, 'The quality of your bra becomes more important as the months wear on. In the first few weeks, the flaps of your bra are permanently down anyway. It's only later, when feeding has settled into a pattern and you're more confident about whipping out a breast in public, that you're aware of whether your bra is up to the job.'

On the next page: 'The right equipment makes any job easier.'