Unsuitable Bra Size: What Are The Consequences?

Either the bra is too small, or the rings do not adapt to the shape of the breasts, the straps cut in, etc.

How do you choose your bra? Are you looking for something comfortable or do you prefer an attractive model with a push-up effect? In any case, you should not choose an unsuitable bra size.

It doesn’t matter so much whether it’s a sporty or a padded brassiere.

In a  study carried out a few years ago by the Pillow Bra company in collaboration with the University of Barcelona (Spain) it was found that almost  70% of women wear an inappropriate bra size. 

Either the bra is too small, or the rings do not adapt to the shape of the breasts, the straps cut in, etc.

This is an important aspect to consider as a poorly fitting bra can have a number of health effects. Then you will learn more about why an unsuitable bra size can be dangerous.

The wrong bra size and its risks

A bra is not only supposed to help you achieve a beautiful figure, it also fulfills a practical purpose that you should not forget: As the name suggests, its job is to hold the breasts and to do so with the right amount of pressure,  which is not should be noticeable.

However, sometimes there is friction, redness and other problems that arise because the bra does not fit properly.

1. Too much pressure

Bras with rings, which are very popular, can – as the gynecologist Zapardiel Sánchez-Escalonilla explains – lead to the following complaints if you choose the wrong bra size or fit:

• The rings put pressure on the chest.
• This pressure can damage the breast ligaments and  cause sagging breasts.
• Very strong pressure can also lead to circulatory disorders, which in turn can cause cysts to form in the tissue.

2. A bra that is too big

If the bra size is too big, friction often occurs. In addition, the relaxation of the chest is promoted and complaints can also  occur in the shoulder tendons.

The reason for this is that the bra does not adjust properly and unconsciously forces us to perform  unfamiliar movements  that gradually lead to overload.

3. Rubbing rings that don’t fit

Choosing the best bra is not an easy endeavor. Some women have large breasts but narrow backs, which makes  it difficult to find a suitable model. Every body is a world of its own and the right model is not always available.

Experts on the subject point out that the greatest health risk is improperly fitting rings. These rub with every movement, strain the nerves between the ribs and  put stress on the breasts. 

The risk is even greater if you sleep with the wrong bra, because the pressure and strain are greater.

4. Can an improper bra increase the risk of breast cancer?

No. Experts believe there  is no link  between wearing the wrong bra and developing breast cancer.

However, inflammatory processes, cysts, back pain, shoulder problems or pain in the breasts can occur. This should be taken into account.

How to choose a matching brassiere

As mentioned earlier,  this is not always easy. For some women, this is a difficult undertaking due to their constitution (for example, large breasts but narrow backs or small breasts but broad backs).

Often, you have to go to different stores to find the right model.

When buying a bra, you should consider the  following aspects:

• The size can vary. The size can sometimes be different due to hormone fluctuations, weight changes, or swelling from premenstrual syndrome. For example, during ovulation, the breasts are usually slightly larger. You should also consider this when buying.
• Measure the chest circumference. To do this, take a tape measure and measure the circumference under the chest, then add 15 cm. The result is the size of the bra: 75, 80, 90, 95 (depending on the country, the sizes can also be different: 34, 36, 38, 40).

More tips

• The cup shape. This is designated with the letters A, B, C, D…. But how do we know which shape is right for us? The measurement is taken at the widest point of the chest, whereby the measuring tape should lie rather loosely. You should make sure that the measuring tape is at the same height on your back. The result will match a number assigned to these letters. There are tables with this data.
• Don’t forget that the tape on the back  shouldn’t be below the lower chest line. It shouldn’t be too short or leave marks.
• The rings should fit snugly,  but not push up or pinch the breasts.
• Be careful with the straps. If you have large breasts, the bra and rings can press into your skin. Always look for suitable carriers who are not uncomfortable and who can support the shape and weight of the breasts well.

* Final recommendation:  try as many bras in the store as you think necessary and never buy a brassiere without trying it on.