TeenHealthFX - Answers - Bra Size & Info.

Breasts & Bras / Question
Published: April 20, 2000

Dear TeenHealthFX,

How do you know when you need to move up a bra size?

Signed: Bra Size & Info.

Dear Bra Size & Info.,

Great question. Up to 75% of all females are wearing the wrong bra or have the wrong size on for them. It is important to have your bra fit properly not only for comfort, but for your health. A bra that does not fit properly can cause aches and strain on the back and shoulders. Also, an incorrectly fitted bra can cause damage to your breast tissue. Breast tissue does not repair itself once damaged and it can lose its firmness over time. For these reasons, it is important to wear a properly fitted bra.

Your best bet in choosing a bra is to be fitted for a bra. Most major department stores and lingerie shops offer this service to their customers. Here is some general size information for yourself so you can take some measurements:

You will need to take two measurements using a tape measure:

Back Size - This measurement is taken around the body directly under the bust or your breasts (over your present bra). Add 5" to this measurement if you back size is odd and 6" if you back size is even.

29 under bust + 5 = 34
28 under bust + 6 = 34

This gives you your size.

Cup Size - This measurement is taken around your breasts over the fullest part.
If this measurement is identical to the back size, it's an A cup.
If it is one inch more than the back size, it's a B cup.
If it is two inches more than the back size, it's a C cup.
For each additional inch, add one cup size.

Getting back to your original question of when to move up a bra size. Take the measurements above and see if the size your bra is matches the measurement. Also, if the bra fits tightly or is uncomfortable, you may need a new bra or bra size. Finally, examine your breast with your bra on to see if you have breast tissue bulging out of the top, bottom or sides of the bra.

A properly fitted bra should:

Give you support in your breasts
Have straps that remain comfortably on the shoulders
Not dig into your sides or underneath your breast (mostly an under wire issue)
Have bra cups that fill in smoothly over your breasts (lumps, wrinkles or room in the cup indicate extra room)
Not ride up your back

Some hints on putting on your bra:

1. Start by putting the straps over your shoulder.

2. Bend forward. Gently place your breasts into the cups. Adjust the cups so that your nipples are in the center and fullest point of the cup. Each breast should completely be in the cup.

3. Hook the back closure in the most comfortable and supportive position.

4. Stand and adjust the straps so that your breasts are comfortable. Also, check that the hook is comfortably snug. It should not be tight and painful.

Many adjustments can be made to an individual bra using the straps and hooks. Try different settings to see which allows you the most comfort and support. Also, bras only last with good support for 6 to 9 months so you will need to replace them.

Take care of your breasts and body and do monthly self-breast exams to ensure their health for the long term.

Signed: TeenHealthFX