Center for Young Women's Health

Buying a Bra

 

Intro Breast Cancer Risks
What's Normal? current guideBuying a Bra
Lumps & Bumps Measuring for a Bra
Self Breast Exam

 

What should I know before I buy a bra?

A bra supports your breasts. While some girls don't wear one, others like to wear them, especially when they play sports. All bras are shaped to fit around both your chest and your breasts.

 

Some bras are sized small, medium, or large. Bras sized this way, such as sports bras, fit snugly but comfortably. A well-fitting sports bra can prevent breast pain during sports or running.

 

More specifically fitted bras have both a breast cup size, which ranges from AA (smallest) to EE (largest), and a chest size-from about 30 inches to 40 inches (this is the number of inches around your chest at the fullest part of your bust).

 

You or a clerk at the store can measure you for the right size bra. You should try on many bras to find the most comfortable size and style. Finding a well-fitting bra is important to prevent breast discomfort, back pain, and shoulder pain.

 

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Written by the CYWH Staff at Children's Hospital Boston

 

Updated: 7/8/2010

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