Wearing wrong size bra can have hidden health dangers you might not realise
A bra that doesn't fit - it's a tale as old as time.
Whether it's straps digging in your shoulders, cups that you're drowning in and underwire that feels like it's practically slicing through your ribcage, I'm sure the issue of an uncomfortable brassiere is, unfortunately, far too relatable for all the women and people with breasts out there.
But, wearing the wrong bra size is far more serious than mere discomfort or aesthetic concerns (as important as both those are) as doing so can also have some hidden health dangers you might not even realise.
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Experts at the Breast Care Center Miami shared all we need to know about all the impacts wearing a bra that's too tight can have on your body.
Chest pain
Now, as we know, bras are both a great means of supporting your boobs and making them look great - but one's that don't fit right can cause major chest pain.
The chest houses some of our main vital organs alongside a complex network of nerves and blood vessels.
So, if you don a bra that's way too tight, you could be constrict this area leading to compressed nerves and blood vessels being put under unnecessary pressure.
Both of which hinders the normal flow of blood to and from the chest.
"This compromised circulation can result in aching and soreness, symptoms that are mistakenly attributed to other factors in many cases," the experts warn.
Restricted blood circulation
Tight bras can lead to a 'compromised blood flow', which can manifest in a number of ways including 'mild skin irritation' and 'the development of persistent rashes'.
The experts point out: "Over time, if left unaddressed, these seemingly minor issues can escalate into more serious conditions."
If blood vessels are constricted, there can be a serious hinderance in the delivery of essential nutrients, oxygen, and immune cells to the skin, 'setting the stage for chronic issues that extend beyond mere discomfort'.
Inflammation
Extreme cases of wearing tight bras can lead to more serious conditions, like inflammation and damage to the breast tissue.
"This underscores the importance of not dismissing the side effects of a tight bra as temporary inconveniences," the experts note.
Because of this, regular self-checks and awareness of the signs of an ill-fitting bra can help 'empower' people to 'take charge of their breast health and make informed choices about their undergarments'.
Emotional impact
The impacts of an ill-fitting bra also extend beyond the physical as the constant discomfort felt by those who wear them - sometimes up to 12 hours a day or more - can lead to major 'emotional distress'.
This can, in turn, really affect one's 'confidence and overall well-being' with the experts adding: "It’s essential to prioritise both physical and emotional health when it comes to choosing the right bra."
Well, that's enough to convince me to book in for a fitting.
Topics: Advice, Fashion, Health, Life, Mental Health, Women's Health
Rhiannon Ingle