In addition to being an essential for nursing mothers, breast pads are also useful in late pregnancy, once your breasts start to produce breast milk. Breast pads, also known as nursing pads, provide discreet protection for your clothes and underwear from leaking milk, particularly just before a feed or if your breasts have a let-down reflex whilst you're breastfeeding. They fit gently into your bra and form around the breasts for maximum comfort and ease-of-use.