Did you know that about 80% of women wear the wrong bra size, with 70% wearing a size too small and 10% wearing a size too big? This was a study published in the National Institute of Health to show that a lot of women are not wearing the right bra fitting. This should not come as a surprise, considering not many people do not know how to choose the right bra size. Unfortunately, there are a few consequences of wearing the wrong size, as discussed in the points below.
Back pain
There has been a lot of research done to show whether ill-fitting bras can cause back pain. As much as the results have been conflicting or inconclusive, some studies show there is a link between those two. Moreover, many women, especially with larger breasts, wear the wrong size. Research shows that larger breasts can cause back pain or worsen already existing pain. When you wear the wrong bra size, you are not giving your breasts proper support, which means you are straining your back. Either way, it is important to find the right size that fits you properly, preventing any discomfort.
Breast Pain
Another side effect of the wrong bra size is breast pain. This is a common complaint among people who exercise regularly or with larger breast cup sizes. If a bra is too small, it will dig into your breast and cause you pain. If it is too big, your breast has too much room and is likely to bounce around, leading to tenderness. Also, anyone suffering from breast asymmetry will feel like all bras are the wrong size. In such cases, you may want to consider breast augmentation or congenital breast asymmetry surgery. Other causes of breast pain include breastfeeding, exercise and menstruation. Before you assume your breast hurts because of the wrong bra size, eliminate those causes first.
Premature Breast Sagging
When you wear a size too big, it does not offer the support it ought to, especially if it is a sports bra. When exercising, your breasts need extra support from a well-fitting bra that cushions any muscle ligaments from any damage caused by intense activities. As much as sagging is something natural that comes with aging and nursing kids, ensure you take steps to prevent premature sagging.
General Discomfort
An ill-fitted bra will make you uncomfortable. Imagine spending the whole day in the office with a bra too big or too small. If it is too big, the straps will keep falling off, and if it is too small, your breast can easily spill out of your bra. As Lulalu suggests, to avoid this discomfort or embarrassment, only shop for bras that fit you.
Bad Posture
Any pain and discomfort caused by an ill-fitting bra will likely result in bad posture. If your breast or back hurts, you may find yourself hunching forward to alleviate the pain. Eventually, you will have a bad posture which worsens back, neck, and shoulder pain.
To avoid these consequences, ensure you know your breast fit well. A lot of stores selling bras are always willing to take one’s measurements and recommend the right bra size.
