Breast Health Guide for Teens:

Measuring for a Bra

 

Breast Development	Breast Cancer Risks
What's Normal	Buying a Bra
Lumps & Bumps	Measuring for a Bra
Self Breast Exam

 

Why do I need to measure for a bra and how do I do it?

If you're ready to buy your first bra or your breast size has changed, you may be wondering what size to buy. This can be tricky unless you do your homework first. This guide will help you measure for the size you will need (Chest Size and Cup Size). This will be important when buying your bra as well as other clothing that uses bra or cup measurements such as bathing suits. Of course, trying on bras is always necessary, since different brands and styles fit differently.

 

Figuring out your Bra size:

If you are about to buy your first bra, it's best to go to a department store that has a special department that sells bras and underwear. This department is usually called the "lingerie department." Ask to be fitted by a "lingerie specialist" (a professional who has special training in fitting bras). There is no charge for this service and having it done by a professional will make sure that your bra fits correctly. You will still need to try on different styles in the size that's right for you because not all bras fit the same way. By doing this, you will find the bra that feels the best and also looks the best under your clothes.

 

If you decide you would feel more comfortable figuring out your bra size at home, the following information will guide you through the steps of measuring yourself.

 

Chest Size:

Place a cloth measuring tape under your breasts. Wrap the tape around your chest so the tape measure meets the beginning part of the tape. When you have the measurement number, add 5 inches.

 

For example: your measurement around your chest is:	27"
	+5"
	32"
This means that your Chest Size is 32.

 

If your measurement ends up to be an ODD number, you will need to go up to the next EVEN number to figure out your size.

 

For example: your measurement around your chest is:	28"
	+5"
	33"
This means that your Chest Size is 34.

 

Cup Size:

Next, you will measure around your chest at the largest or fullest part of your breasts, called your "bustline." You need to measure with your arms straight down, so ask someone you feel comfortable with to help you (like your mom, sister, or friend).

 

Your Bustline Measurement will be higher than your chest ("under the breast") measurement. Your Cup Size is the difference between your Chest Size and your Bustline Measurement. size.

 

For example: Your Bust Measurement at the fullest part of your bust is 34:	34"
And your Chest Size is 32" (27" + 5)	-32"
	2"
The difference is 2 inches, which means your Cup Size is a "B cup"

 

 

Guide to Figuring Out Bra Cup Size
Cup Size	Difference
AA Cup	½ inch
A Cup	1 inch
B Cup	2 inch
C Cup	3 inch
D Cup	4 inch

 

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Written by the Center for Young Women's Health Staff

 

Updated 6/28/06

 

 

Related Information:

• A Guide to Puberty and Menstrual Cycles
• Your First Pelvic Exam
• Related Links

 

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