You're constantly tugging at it, pulling here, tugging there. If a bra doesn't fit properly, it's not just annoying, it can hurt and even damage your health. That's why it's important that it fits well. But how do you find the perfect model?
The bust size of German women is increasing. It has increased by 2.3 centimetres in the last 20 years to an average of 98.7 centimetres. And every second woman does not know her bra size, according to a recent survey. Ignorance that can lead to various health problems.
Back pain due to lack of support
If the bra is too wide, it does not provide enough support for the breasts. As a result, the upper body is usually pulled forward unnoticed by the weight - a poor posture that can put strain on the back and overload it in the long term. Is the bra a little tight - but can it still be fastened? Watch out! It is still too tight and should be discarded. Otherwise, the bra may slip up and constrict the sensitive tissue. This is particularly unpleasant with underwired models.
Tension in the neck, shoulders and nape
Very often the straps are too narrow and cut into the shoulders, sometimes to the point of dents. This pinches nerves and muscles. In the long term, this can result in pain in the shoulder, neck and throat area.
Two possible triggers for headaches
Narrow and too short straps can also impede the blood supply to the brain and thus cause tension headaches. If you suffer from this frequently, you should check your bra. This can also be caused by a lack of oxygen if the bra is too tight and restricts breathing.
The sources of abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome
Poor posture and breathing problems can also lead to cramping of the abdominal muscles. This manifests itself in stomach pain and, in rare cases, even intestinal disorders.
Chest pain can be ironed out
If the cups are too large and therefore do not provide sufficient support, this can damage the ligaments that hold the breasts in place. If the cups are too tight, the breasts are squeezed and swell out at the top. This looks unattractive and is painful. If the bra is too small, the underwires sit on top of the breasts rather than under them - and squeeze the sensitive breast tissue.
Skin and ligament damage possible during sport
A bra that doesn't fit properly can chafe the skin. It can also damage the ligaments that hold the breast in place. Doctors therefore advise you to always make sure that sports bras fit perfectly.
How to determine your exact bra size
To do this, first measure the circumference of your upper body directly under the base of your breasts with a tape measure and then measure your chest circumference. You can enter both measurements into bra size finders on the internet, for example at www.triumph.com or www.calida.com, to determine the right bra size. Or you can go to a specialist store and have yourself measured by trained staff.
... and here's what it looks like in terms of hygiene
How often should I change? The basic rule is: if it is sweaty (e.g. due to sport or exertion), the bra should be washed. Otherwise you can wear it a second or third time.
How to wash it? That depends very much on the material. Lace and synthetic fibers often only tolerate hand washing. Cotton bras, on the other hand, can even be machine washed up to 60 degrees. Always follow the washing instructions.
How to care for them? Always use a mild detergent, even with cotton, as otherwise the fabric will be damaged too much and can wear out. Do not iron, otherwise the bra will lose its fit.
How to protect? When washing in the machine, put the bra in a washing bag. This protects the material and keeps the rest of your clothes intact. This prevents the fastening hooks and underwires from getting caught anywhere.
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