From Wrong to Right … Bra Size

You've probably heard or read that 7 out of 10 women wear the wrong bra size. Chances are you might be one of those seven. But did you know that among expectant and new mothers, that statistic jumps to 9 out of 10? Wearing the wrong bra size during pregnancy can lead to upper back and shoulder discomfort, not to mention pain. And a new mother's breastfeeding experience may get better support if only the proper bra size and type was worn.

It appears that so many women — pregnant and breastfeeding mothers included — wear the wrong bra because of limited size availability and lack of choice brands at many points-of-purchase. The real culprit, though, is that most women aren't measured and properly fit prior to the purchase of their bra. Measuring assistance from an experienced bra fitter has become a lost art, not to mention — service — in many retail and specialty stores. Very few department stores still offer a fitting service where lingerie and intimate apparel are sold. So many women, mothers included, resort to the "self-serve" method. And that's often "wear" they go wrong!

It would be ideal if more health care providers addressed the garment for your breasts during your prenatal or postnatal visit. Unfortunately time doesn't allow the chance to discuss the bra topic. The following tips may help you learn where, why and how to make the wrong bra size — right — for your pregnancy and breastfeeding experience.

• Bras are sized according to band and cup. Your bra band fits around your rib cage and supports under your bust. Your bra cup holds your breasts. Industry band sizes range from 32 — 46 here in the United States. Bra cups range from A through J, K and even L.
• Call a few business listings in the telephone book under Bras — Maternity & Breastfeeding. Ask if they stock several styles and sizes of maternity and nursing bras. Ask if they provide a professional fitting service.
• Purchase a new bra by your second trimester of pregnancy. If your bra becomes uncomfortable during your first trimester, don't suffer — buy now!
• Avoid an underwire bra style while pregnant and breastfeeding. Since your breasts and rib cage typically increase in size and fullness, a wire doesn't expand and often becomes constrictive. Constriction of your breast tissue and rib cage can lead to an unhealthy fluid stasis, possible infection and overall discomfort. With the many aches and pains of pregnancy, don't let your bra be one of them!
• Choose a maternity/nursing bra style to wear during pregnancy. Its fabric and design provides you with necessary as well as proper support. The bra's nursing feature offers you convenient access for breastfeeding — so buy it and try it!
• Look for a bra designed with a wide rib band, supportive cups, and shoulder straps. This will provide much needed support to your breasts, shoulders and back. Bra cups without seams don't irritate sensitive nipples. Choose bra fabrics made of mostly cotton or breathable microfiber with Lycra®, Spandex® or elastane stretch fibers. These fabrics provide overall support and ample flexibility for your breast changes. Select a fashionable color or print fabric that helps you look good and feel great!

If you don't find a local source that offers personal fitting service, these steps may help you to fit yourself in the proper size. While wearing a bra, use a fabric tape to measure your rib band size. Take a measurement in inches just under your bust. Add one or two inches to this measurement to make an even number. This is your bra band size. Next, take a measurement across your nipple line around the fullest part of your bust. Subtract your band measurement from your full bust measurement. The difference will be your bra cup size. A one inch difference equals an A cup, two inch difference is a B cup and so forth. A DD is actually an E cup, and a DDD is actually an F cup. A J cup will be a ten-inch difference.

With bra band and cup measurements in hand, you can venture out to fit yourself for your proper bra size. Choose a point-of-purchase that stocks bras in the size that you determined. Inquire about selection and availability prior to your visit to make the best use of your time. If you find that your bra sizes are only available through a mail order or e-commerce site, order a few sizes and styles to custom fit yourself. Remember to select bra fabrics made of microfiber or mostly cotton with stretch elastic fibers to ensure your breast support!

Author of The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Breastfeeding, Anne P. Mark is a registered nurse, board-certified lactation consultant and master bra fitter. She serves as CEO and Director of Breastfeeding Consultation Services for Mommies & Poppies Incorporated, a business offering professional sales, services, and information to breastfeeding consumers through www.mommies-poppies.com on-line. For further information, please call 317-257-0801 or address e-mail to on-line.

© 2003 Anne P. Mark. All rights reserved. Contact author for permission to reprint.