Postpartum women who wish to engage in physical activity and breastfeed their children are at greater risk for breast soreness due to increased breast volume and sensitivity associated with breastfeeding. An apparel product that supports both good breastfeeding practices and physical activity has the potential to improve the health of both mother and child. The purpose of this research was to understand the design requirements of physically active breastfeeding women for a sports bra design. The researchers applied user-centered methods to develop a nursing sports bra prototype based on data from a focus group. The researchers created a two-layer bra concept to improve breast support and provide the convenience of nursing. Through wear trials, participants found the prototype to be successful in providing breast support with the added advantage of being able to nurse a child, resulting in a novel bra concept that addresses many needs of active breastfeeding women.
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