SIGNS YOU’RE WEARING A WRONG BRA

Neck and Back Problems

Experts aren’t settled on whether improper bra fit can cause neck and back pain. Some research say it’s not related, but others show people with large breasts are more likely to wear a bra that doesn’t provide enough support and fitting which may lead to posture problems and pain.

Breast Pain

If your boobs falls out over the top of your cups, are squished into your armpits, or are poked with underwire or metal, they’ll hurt in a hurry, this is an indicator of a wrong bra size.

Nipple Pain

One of the biggest reasons that nipples hurt? Friction. When your bra is too loose or too tight it rubs you the wrong way and can cause chafed, irritated and sore nipples.

Skin Issues

Breasts that aren’t well supported can sag and cause stretch marks on your skin that last a lifetime. You can also get grooves or depressions in your shoulders from the straps digging into the skin over time, basically caused by straps that are too tight.

Headaches

If you have head pains you can’t explain or relate, your bra might have been the culprit. The tension you get in your muscles from a too tight fitting bra can cause headaches.

The Best Fit

Key places to focus to ensure a good fit: the cups, front band, and straps. Ensure your band is tight enough that it stays in place without slipping but loose enough to slide a finger between it and your skin easily. Choose straps wide enough that they don’t dig into your shoulders creating depressions, and cups that fully contain your breasts without then falling out.

How to Find Your Fit

To get your accurate bra size, you can either visit a store that will take your measurements for you, or do it yourself. First, measure your chest just under your breasts and round up to the nearest whole number. This is the number part of your bra size. Be sure to keep the measuring tape below your shoulder blades — this is where the back strap of your bra should be.

Find Your Cup Size

Next measure your chest at your nipples. The difference between this measurement and your chest measurement tells you your cup size: One inch is an A cup, two is B, three is C, and four is D, and so on. If your breasts are different sizes, you can find inserts to help even them out for a better bra fit.

Sports Bra

You need double the breast support during workouts/ exercises: choose a sports bra that stays firm when you jump, twist, and bend. But don’t try to get that support by wearing a bra that’s too tight: This can cause neck pain and compression that leads to numbness in your arms. A bra that rubs will chafe and even cause bleeding, especially around the band. It may help to apply some petroleum jelly or sports lubricant on any problem, irritated or chaffed areas.

When to Say Goodbye

Your bra should serve you well for several years, if you care for it well. Wash it about every two to three wears so the fabric doesn’t wear out too quickly. Watch for signs of underwire exposure or stretching that could mess with your fit.