Quad boob, uni-boob, or simply spillage — regardless of what you call it, it can be a pretty unsightly problem. We all know that a bra is supposed to contain our breasts, so when they don’t seem to be capable of that, you know you’ve got a fit issue on your hands.

Very often, breast tissue spills out of the top of the cups. And it goes without saying that it’s uncomfortable as well as unflattering. So what does this mean? Why does it happen? And how can you fix it? Follow the steps in this guide to find out.

Make some adjustments

Sometimes all it takes is a few tweaks to solve your breast spillage woes. The band on the bra lends a majority of the support, and if it’s not tight enough, it can ride up in the back, which then leads the cups to droop downward (thus causing your boobs to spill out). As such, you’ll definitely want to make sure the band is snug enough. Take a peek at the back to check whether it lies in a straight line parallel to the floor.

Next, be sure to adjust the straps to the point where they aren’t likely to fall off your shoulders but also aren’t digging into them, either.

Don’t forget to scoop your breasts into the cups to check whether they’re fully encompassed by the cups, with the underwire (if there is any) comfortably encircling them.

You may be surprised at how these simple fit adjustments can prevent the dreaded quad boob. However, if you’re still seeing some spillage…

Get fitted

The best thing to do in this situation is to refer to a professional. Because very often, if you’re spilling out of the top of the cups, you’re wearing the wrong bra size. Specifically, you are probably wearing a cup size that’s too small.

Of course, you could try simply going up a cup size. However, it can be helpful to get fitted at your local lingerie boutique or department store to ensure that you have a flawless fit all around with no more spillage. After all, a pro can not only properly measure you, but also suggest styles that work best for your particular breast shape.

Switch styles

Speaking of bra styles, if adjusting the bra and changing your cup size doesn’t solve the spillage issue, then you may need to consider this aspect. Certain styles work better for every breast shape, and knowing yours can help you to seek out bras that don’t cause any pesky uni-boob. It’s worth noting that if you have a larger bust, a full cup bra will help you to avoid spillage but ensuring you have adequate coverage. This bra style offers more coverage than a demi cup bra or balconette bra.

Spilling out of the top of your bra cups? Taking the aforementioned steps should help you to figure out the culprit and quickly resolve it. After all, you deserve a bra that makes you feel comfy and confident — not one that forces you to constantly keep adjusting your breasts, or cause any insecurities about your appearance.

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Ah, back bulge — it’s one of the most commonly dreaded bra-related problems, so you’re certainly not alone if you’re battling this unsightly issue. So why does this happen? And are there any ways to resolve it?

You may have heard that a wider bra band can help to prevent this problem. But is that really effective? If you’re aiming to banish back bulge for good, read on.

What’s the cause of back bulge?

Of course, the band is most likely the culprit if you’re seeing some bulge in the back. For example, it may be too tight, and as a result, it’s digging into your skin. You could try going up a size. However, contrary to popular belief, it’s more often a matter of your bra band being too big. When the band isn’t tight enough, it can ride up, the back tissue upward along with it to create those pesky rolls. If you can easily fit more than two fingers underneath the band, you’ll know it’s definitely too big.

How can I prevent it?

Avoiding back bulge starts with knowing your bra size. This is just one more reason why it’s crucial to get fitted by a professional every six months — as the band provides a vast majority of the bra’s support, you want to ensure you’re wearing the correct size. To boot, if you’re wearing the correct size, you can rest assured you shouldn’t see any more back bulge. Whenever you buy a new bra, be sure that it fits snugly on the loosest hook-and-eye closure in the back so that you can gradually tighten it as needed and still get a perfect fit.

Sometimes it’s not an issue of the bra size, though. If you know you’re wearing the right size and you’re still struggling with back bulge, then it’s likely due to the construction of the actual bra — especially if it has a narrow band. Bras that feature wider backs can provide more smoothing across the back, and are less likely to cut into the tissue to make any rolls appear. A bra with a leotard back is a phenomenal choice because it has taller sides, which also lend some smoothing power by spreading out the pressure across a larger surface area on your skin. Another benefit to this style is that by distributing the weight of your breasts more evenly throughout the band, the leotard back takes some of the weight off your shoulders.

Another ideal option for eliminating back bulge is the longline bra. Since it has additional fabric that extends beneath the cups and the underwire, it can help to smooth out your torso. In other words, you can think of this style as a bra and shapewear all in one!

So, to recap: The first thing you need to examine when addressing back bulge is your bra size.

Once you know you’re wearing the correct size, you can start to experiment with different bra styles, focusing specifically on products that feature a wider bra band and taller sides.

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

It goes without saying that the cups on a bra are pretty crucial — after all, they’re the component that contains your actual breasts. When the cups fit flawlessly, your bra not only flatters your figure but makes your tops and dresses hang better. On the other hand, when your cups don’t fit quite right, they can put a serious dent in your look (not to mention your comfort). One of the most common issues when it comes to cups is gaping.

If you’ve ever noticed wrinkles or puckers in the cups of your bra, you’re probably curious as to the cause — as well as what you can do about it. In this guide, we’ve detailed why gaping happens, as well as some quick fixes to ensure your cups look smooth and seamless.

What causes gaping?

The bottom line is that gaping indicates there’s too much room in your cups, and you’re not filling them out adequately.

There are several reasons why this might be happening. For one, you may simply be wearing a cup size that’s too large. Did you lose a notable amount of weight recently? If so, and you’re still wearing the same bras, it’s time to get professionally fitted to assess how your size has changed. Additionally, bras obviously stretch out over time with wearing and washing. So if you notice that a bra you’ve owned for more than six months to a year is suddenly gaping in the cups, it may simply be time to toss it and go shopping for a new, better fitting bra.

It’s also worth noting that certain breast shapes are more prone to gaping cups. For example, those with asymmetric boobs may find that one cup fits while the other puckers since their breasts are two different sizes. Those with slender or pendulous breasts may also struggle with this issue because the bulk of the tissue is at the bottom of the breasts, and since the tops of them are more shallow, they won’t fill out the top of the cups as well.

What can I do about it?

Don’t fret: You don’t have to grin and bear the gaping. In fact, there are a number of solutions to this pesky problem.

Sometimes solving this unsightly issue is as simple as tightening the straps. If the straps are too loose, your breasts won’t be getting enough support, which means the tissue will sink lower into the cups, thus causing the top of the cups to wrinkle.

If that doesn’t work, you might need to try a smaller cup size. Obviously, if your breasts are swimming in the cups, you’re bound to see gaping.

And if neither of those tactics is effective, it’s time to experiment with some different bra styles to find some that work for your breast shape. For example, full-cup bras may not work as well for those with slender or athletic breasts, as the cups simply offer too much coverage. Women with these breast shapes may want to try a demi-cup bra instead — the cups provide notably less coverage (only covering about two-thirds of the breasts) and are therefore less likely to pucker. Have asymmetric breasts? Then you could try a molded bra (potentially with an insert into the cup of the smaller breast), which will provide some much-needed extra shaping to even out the appearance of your different-sized boobs.

If you struggle with having too much room at the top of the bra cups, plunge bras and push-up bras are both phenomenal options to consider as well because the cups are angled and also push the breast tissue upwards, thus reducing gaping.

One final question: Have you been fitted recently? If not, it’s highly advisable. A professional bra fitter can not only measure you to ensure you’re wearing the correct cup and band size, but also make personalized recommendations on bra styles that will work best for your shape. So, if you’re sick of seeing your bra cups wrinkle or pucker, this is a smart first step to quickly solving the problem.

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Here’s the thing about bras: When they fit flawlessly, they can truly make your life easier. You feel comfortable, look incredible, and ideally, you don’t even notice the undergarment is there. You forget about it. However, when they aren’t the right size, bras can really wreak havoc on your day (and your mood, for that matter). From constantly having to pull your straps up or adjust your boobs in the cups to underwire digging into your skin, there is a bevy of issues that we women have to deal with when it comes to ill-fitting bras.

Fortunately, you don’t have to: We rounded up some of the most common bra fit problems and how to solve them.

1.  The underwire digs in

The underwire on a bra is supposed to lend some helpful support, not cause any pain. So if you feel like it’s digging into your skin — whether under the breast tissue, at the sides of your torso or near your underarms — it’s definitely time to make a change. Of course, you could switch to a wireless bra. But if you just can’t part with your underwire, try a larger cup size. When the underwire doesn’t adequately encompass the breasts in their entirety, that’s an indicator that it’s not wide enough. A larger cup size features not a wider underwire, which will prevent any poking. Keep in mind that sometimes underwire also gets bent out of shape after a lot of wears and washes — and if that’s the case, it’s time to toss it.

2.  Your breast tissue is spilling out of the cups

If your bust overfloweth, then you probably need a larger cup size. You also may want to consider a bra style with more coverage: A full-cup bra, for example, is more effective at encapsulating all of the breast tissue than a balconette or demi-cup bra.

3.  The center gore doesn’t lie flat

Does it look like the panel at the center of the cups is rising away from your torso? Then you’ll either require a larger cup size or a smaller band size. If you notice some spillage out of the cups, try going up a cup size, and if you can slide three or more fingers underneath the band, try going down a band size. If neither of those tactics works, then that particular bra style probably just isn’t well-suited to your breast shape. For example, a plunge bra or demi-cup bra that has a narrower, shorter center gore works well for women with close-set breasts.

4.  The band rises in the back

Ah, the rising band. Many women choose to accept this irritating little issue, but you definitely shouldn’t: this problem indicates that you’re wearing a band size that’s too big, which meant it can’t offer enough support. And the fact of the matter is, the band provides most of the bra’s support. So go for a larger band size if you’ve already tried tightening the hook-and-eye closures in the back — just remember that if you buy a larger band, you may very well need a smaller cup size (this is called your sister size).

5.  Your headlights are showing

Feeling a little self-conscious about your nipples showing? This is a pretty simple one to fix: Instead of an unlined bra, try wearing a padded bra (like a contour bra), or at the very least, one with some moderate lining. You can also stick some silicone or gel inserts into the cups for some extra nipple coverage on those unlined bras you love.

Aline Wire Free Padded Bra P5252 | Aline Bikini P5253 in Black

6.  The straps are causing shoulder strain

If you can’t wait to rip off your bra at the end of the workday because the straps have been digging into your shoulders, it’s time to consider going down a band size. When the band is too big, you end up needing to tighten the straps too much to make up for it. Maybe the band has simply stretched out, in which case, it’s time to go shopping for a new bra. Either way, you’ll know you’ve got the correct size if you can only fit two fingers underneath the band.

7.  You’re getting some back bulge

No, your bra shouldn’t be creating rolls that aren’t usually there. So if you’re seeing some bulge in the back when you wear your bra, it’s safe to say that the band is probably too tight. If you’re confident that you don’t need a larger band size, it may just be a matter of opting for styles with a wider band. A longline bra is an excellent choice for solving this issue, as the extra fabric that extends down your torso under the cups can lend some shaping power and have a smoothing effect.

8.  The cups are gaping

Your breasts should feel secure, supported and perfectly encased by the cups — not like they’re swimming around in them. First, try tightening your straps. If you still notice some gaping, go for a smaller cup size. Still not seeing smooth cups? You might need a different style, especially if you have shallow breasts. For example, a demi-cup bra, which only covers roughly two-thirds of the breasts, may be a better bet than a full-cup bra, which can leave too much room in the cups if your boobs aren’t very projected.

9.  The straps keep slipping

Obviously, the easiest solution to this is to tighten the straps. However, if they’re still slipping off, you may have narrow shoulders. In that case, you should try a bra style with straps that are set closer together. A racerback bra, for example, can instantly fix this problem.

10.  One cup fits – but the other doesn’t

It’s not uncommon to have breasts that are two different sizes. If you suspect your breast are asymmetrical, you can try a molded bra to help in the shaping and sculpting department (just remember to always buy a bra that fits the larger breast). You can also even things out by using a padded insert in the cup of the smaller breast.

Don’t settle for an ill-fitting bra — you deserve better. Use these aforementioned tips to quickly address any pesky fit issue and you’ll no doubt notice a significant difference in your daily comfort as well as your overall confidence.

Emma Wire-Free Soft Padded Bra P5491 | Emma Hipster P5495 in Black

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

It’s time to ‘fess up. Have you been thoughtlessly tossing your bras into the washing machine along with the rest of your garments? Well, then there’s a thing or two you should know about washing your bras if you want them to last.

The washing machine can be pretty harsh on your delicates. But does that mean you can’t use it to clean your bras? It’s a complex subject, but we’re diving into all the details in this comprehensive guide. Read on to find out whether it’s OK to machine wash your bras, plus some helpful tips for protecting your favorite underthings from damage.

Hand washing vs. machine washing

First thing’s first: Always check the care label on your bras. Some may be machine washable, but many will advise for handwashing only. For example, most sports bras must be hand washed due to the synthetic materials they’re made of, and due to the fact that they contain a lot of elastic. Many molded bras can become misshapen in the washing machine as well.

Naturally, hand washing is always preferable whenever possible. A washing machine puts your bras through a lot of agitation, which can cause some wear and tear over time. However, when you’re pressed for time, you may opt for machine washing (as long as the care label permits it). If you do choose the washing machine, you’ll need to take certain precautions to protect your delicates (more on that in the next section).

To hand wash your bras, all you’ll need is a large basin (either a bucket or even a sink will do) and some mild detergent. It’s worth investing in detergent that’s specifically formulated for lingerie, as it is less likely to break down the delicate fibers in your unmentionables (such as lace, satin, and elastic). Submerge your bras in lukewarm or cool water and a dash of detergent. Swish them around a little and then leave them for 15 to 30 minutes. Then, drain the water and refill the basin with clean water only (no detergent this time). Again, swish the bras around to loosen the detergent, without twisting or squeezing them too aggressively. Drain this water and repeat again if necessary. Always pat the bras dry by pressing them gently between two towels — wringing them out can leave them misshapen. Then lay them flat or hang them to dry, but avoid hanging them by their straps as this can stretch them out.

Tips for success

If you simply throw your bras in the machine freely, there’s a good chance they’ll be exposed to damage. The underwire may get bent out of shape, trims can start to unravel, and the details that make your bras beautiful may fray or tear. This is why it’s crucial to place your bras in a small laundry bag, whether or not you’re washing them with other garments. This will protect them from getting stretched out or tangled, meaning they’ll look and fit better for longer. Pro tip: If you don’t have a laundry bag, you can also place your bras in a pillowcase and secure it with a rubber band for a quick DIY solution.

Be sure to fasten all the hook-and-eye closures on your bras before placing them in the wash bag. This will prevent the hooks from pulling and snagging the fabric of other items in the bag.

When you’re using the washing machine, it’s crucial to set it to a “delicates” cycle, which is the closest to hand washing. You’ll also want to opt for cool water, as hot water is more likely to break down the elasticity of your bras (and the elasticity plays a big role in support). If you’re putting other items in the machine with your bras, make sure they’re lightweight garments. Bedding, towels, and jeans, for example, are too heavy to include.

So, to recap: can you put your bras in the washing machine? Ultimately, it depends on the bra. But if you determine that you can according to the care label, be sure to employ the tactics above to keep your bras in tip-top shape.

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

At the end of the day, your bra should be making your life easier — not adding more hassles and frustrations. So if you find yourself continually having to pull your straps back onto your shoulders, pay attention: your bra is trying to tell you something.

There are many different reasons why you might be dealing with strap slippage, ranging from your body frame type to wearing the wrong size or simply the style of the bra you’re sporting. In this guide, we’ll get to the bottom of why this problem can happen, and more importantly — what to do about it.

The culprits

Are you absolutely certain you know your true cup size? This is an important consideration, as wearing a cup size that’s too big could cause your straps to slip. That’s because when your breasts don’t completely fill out the cups, they don’t apply enough tension on the straps to keep them in place. Look for gaping, wrinkling or empty space at the top of the cups to determine if this is your issue. First, try scooping your breast tissue into the cups to make sure they’re well placed. If the problem persists, you’ll need to go down a cup size.

Moreover, your band size might be too big. When the band is too loose, the straps are also set further apart, making them more likely to slip off your shoulders. If you decide to go down a band size, remember that you’ll also need to go up a cup size to compensate for the change (Note: this is called your “bra sister size”).

It’s also possible that you’re just not wearing the best bra style for your body. For example, if you have narrow shoulders, it’s crucial to note how the straps are placed on a bra, as wide set straps are definitely more likely to fall off.

Or, it may simply be an issue of your straps not being sufficiently tightened. Remember: the straps on a bra will start to stretch out with wear, so you’ll need to tighten them from time to time over the course of its lifespan.

The solutions

Always try adjusting your straps first — and if they’re still slipping down on the tightest setting, you’ll know there’s another issue going on. One way to test whether the straps are tight enough is to slip two fingers underneath them and be sure that you can’t easily move them around.
You may also consider trying a bra style with straps that are set closer together. For example, a racerback bra is an excellent choice. A bra with a J-hook or a convertible bra is another great option, as you can fasten the straps in different ways (such as halter and criss-cross) so that they stay put on your shoulders. Some bras even have silicone strips adhered the bottom of the straps, which can help them to stick better to your skin and remain in place.

It goes without saying that your bust goes through a lot of changes throughout every stage of the breastfeeding process. And once that process is over, you’ll experience even more changes. Naturally, once your breasts aren’t required to produce milk any longer, their size will shift. For some women, this shift may mean returning to their pre-breastfeeding size and shape. Others may settle at a size somewhat larger than were prior to pregnancy, and some may actually notice their breasts shrink to an even smaller size than they were before. Every woman’s body is unique, but one thing’s for sure: Your size will not be the same once you’re done nursing.

Clearly, a bra fitting is more crucial than ever — after all, there’s no other way to know for sure how much your size has shifted. The question is, though, when should you schedule one? This guide should cover all your questions about post-breastfeeding bra fittings.

Weaning 101

A major factor in determining when to get fitted is the pace at which you wean your baby. Moms who rapidly wean their infant will notice a quicker change in bra size than those who slowly wean theirs. That’s because the pace at which you wean affects the pace at which the milk-producing glands deflate. It’s important to note that it takes a whopping five to six months for the milk supply to completely dry up. In other words, you won’t really settle into your true post-breastfeeding size until roughly half a year after you wean your baby.

Finding your new fit

Wait, so you have to wait six months to get fitted? Not necessarily. The changes in your breast size will occur very gradually over the course of that time. As such, it’s advisable to get fitted several weeks to a month after you finish weaning your child, and then again at that six-month mark. That way, you’ll have bras that fit you while your breasts are shifting, and then more that fit you once you “settle” into your new post-breastfeeding size.

At a fitting, you’ll not only learn your new size but also some other super helpful information as well. For example, a professional may be able to offer some insight into different styles that work best for you. You may be surprised that styles you loved in the past are no longer as flattering, while others enhance your bust even better. After all, it’s not just your size that may change as a result of breastfeeding, but your shape may as well.

How many bras will you need?

While it may be tempting to do so, we don’t recommend investing in a ton of bras directly after you’re done weaning. In the weeks and even months following nursing, your breasts will change a lot. Instead, consider investing in about three bras that you can rotate throughout the week once you’re done weaning. Then get re-fitted after five to six months, and as you know this will likely be your true size for a while, add some more bras to your collection.

Shopping tips for post-nursing bras

When shopping for post-nursing bras, the idea is to aim for maximum adjustability. You’ll definitely want adjustable straps and a back band that has at least three hook-and-eye closures. That way, your bras can accommodate for subtle changes in your breast size, and you can adjust them as you see fit. You should also make sure that the bra fits well on a tighter band setting when you buy it, as your rib cage may slowly start to contract a bit once you’re done weaning and therefore, you’ll likely need to tighten the band. Seeking a nicely rounded, perky shape? A more structured molded bra can help with shaping, which some women find they require following pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The most important thing to keep in mind while bra shopping is that size and shape changes you notice after breastfeeding are totally normal, and it may take some time to get comfortable with your new bust. Fortunately, well-fitting bras in the right style can help you to build up your confidence again. Who knows? You may find you like your new figure even better.

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

It’s no secret that our breasts go through some gradual transformations as we age. But what’s responsible for those changes in shape and lift? It mostly comes down to some connective tissue called the Cooper’s Ligaments. The bottom line is this: These ligaments are largely responsible for keeping your boobs looking perky.

So, how do they do that? What can cause damage to them? And is there any way to protect them to keep your breasts from sagging? Read on to find out. In this guide, we’ve covered all you need to know about Cooper’s ligaments.

What do Cooper’s ligaments do?

First thing’s first. Ligaments are fibrous bands that connect cartilage and bones, as well as hold your joints together. The Cooper’s ligaments connect your breast tissue to your chest muscles and your collarbone to the skin on top of your chest, and they do just that for your boobs: hold them together and support them, thus helping them to maintain their structure and shape. As for their name, the British anatomist Astley Cooper was the first to describe them in 1840.

Why do they stretch out?

The Cooper’s ligaments, which are woven throughout your breasts, are actually pretty delicate. They’re often compared to a rubber band because eventually, they will inevitably start to stretch out (which explains the term “Cooper’s droopers”). What causes them to become lax? Well, there are many factors that can have an impact on them. Weight fluctuations and mere genetics can play a role in this. Additionally, it’s believed that pregnancy (especially more than one) and breastfeeding can cause these ligaments to stretch out somewhat. This is due to the fact that your breasts can become larger and heavier over the course of those nine months, thus causing strain on the ligaments.

What can I do about it?

The reality is, there’s no way to prevent the Cooper’s ligaments from any stretching whatsoever. However, there are ways to protect them and delay the process.

One super simple but significant strategy for preserving the shape of your breasts is wearing a well-fitting supportive sports bra. Physical activity, especially high-impact kinds like running, dancing, and jumping, causes repeated trauma on the Cooper’s ligaments. And without the right bra to hold your breasts securely in place, you may experience more than just accelerated sagging over time, but also tenderness and pain in your breasts. Make no mistake: This measure is not just for large-busted ladies. Even women with smaller breasts are still at risk of ligament damage if they’re wearing a sports bra that doesn’t offer adequate support. Particularly if you have a fuller bust, you may want to seek out an encapsulation bra that encapsulates and supports each breast individually. Regardless of your size, you should definitely opt for a sports bra that has adjustable straps and hook-and-eye closures in the back to ensure you achieve a flawless fit. And speaking of fit, it’s advisable to get fitted by a professional every six months to make sure you’re wearing the correct size sports bra.

There aren’t any exercises that will strengthen the Cooper’s ligaments or prevent them from stretching. However, there are exercises that can strengthen the pectoral muscles underneath your breasts, which may help them to maintain their perkiness for longer. For example, traditional pushups, as well as chest flyes and chest presses with dumbbells, are all effective options for toning the pectoral muscles.

Recap

To recap: The Cooper’s ligaments are responsible for the structural integrity of your breasts. As such, it’s important to do whatever you can to protect them. Wearing a quality sports bra in the right size can certainly help. But at the end of the day, don’t stress too much about them: rest assured that it’s totally normal for these ligaments to change with age. In fact, no woman is immune to this natural process!

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

As if you don’t have enough pesky symptoms to deal with around the time of your period — this phase can also entail some changes in your breasts that are downright painful. Rest assured that there are some ways to alleviate these issues. Still, you may be left wondering: “Why do my boobs hurt before my period?” In this guide, we’ve broken down the cause as well as some helpful tips on how to reduce discomfort.

Why do your breasts hurt before your period?

Throughout your menstrual cycle, your hormones — specifically, estrogen and progesterone — are continually fluctuating. And it’s worth noting that some women are more sensitive to these shifts than others.
In your premenstrual week, estrogen is particularly low. And research published in the journal Ethology and Sociobiology revealed that this can cause your boobs to looks less symmetrical. Don’t worry, though: they’ll even out again soon enough when your period arrives. If you’re feeling insecure about your lopsided bust, you can try wearing a molded bra to help sculpt them into looking more even.

In the couple weeks before your period, these hormones start steadily surging, stimulating connective tissue in the breasts. Estrogen enhances the elasticity of your skin, so a rise in this hormone can make your breasts look a tad perkier than normal (what’s not to love about some natural lift?). Progesterone also leads your milk glands to become enlarged. As a result, your boobs can start to feel swollen and tender. This effect is typically the strongest in the week leading up to your period. However, once your period finally comes, the level of those hormones decline. That meant that within a couple days, the swelling and tenderness should subside. In fact, toward the latter end of menstruation (somewhere between the 4th and 7th day, depending on your typical cycle length), your breasts will reach their lowest volume.

Your boobs also might feel a little lumpy, too. That’s because your milk glands are expanding to prep for potential pregnancy (and breastfeeding), resulting in a bumpy feel. Don’t fret, though: after the first few days of your period, your body recognizes you aren’t pregnant, and they’ll start to feel smooth again.

How to reduce breast pain before your period

Can’t deal with the tenderness, soreness, etc.? You shouldn’t have to. Luckily, there are plenty of research-backed strategies for preventing and even eliminating any pain (besides just popping an anti-inflammatory drug).

First of all, you’ll definitely want to make sure your bra fits properly. An ill-fitting bra will only exacerbate any discomfort (think: poking underwires, straps digging into your shoulders, a too-tight band, and cups that cut into your breast tissue). It’s a good idea to get fitted by a professional every six months or so, or if you’ve experienced any significant weight changes, to ensure you’re wearing the correct size. Some women may find wireless bras to be comfier when their breasts are feeling a tad tender.

Remember

Did you know that salt and caffeine both cause water retention? That means extra swollen breasts. So consider cutting down on both in the week or two leading up to your period.

Speaking of your diet, a study at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston determined that women who ate lots of whole grains, vege­tables, and beans were able to excrete estrogen more efficiently as a result of consuming foods high in fiber. In turn, this means reduced PMS symptoms.

It’s also important to get enough vitamins B and C, calcium, and magnesium, as they all play a role in the production of prostaglandin E, a compound that controls the hormone which stimulates breast tissue (prolactin).

If you’re experiencing unusually extreme breast tenderness, soreness, swelling, or pain, or any other symptoms as well, such as lumps or nipple discharge, you may want to make an appointment to see your doctor just for added reassurance that there aren’t any other issues at hand. Also, it’s advisable to do a self-breast exam the week following your period just to make note of whether you feel any changes.

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!