I need a bra, what should I do? My first bra. Are there chest injuries?

Teenage girls during adolescence are faced with the problem of a bra. They understand that the T-shirt no longer fits them, but they are afraid or embarrassed to tell their mother or mentor about it. However, it is as simple as asking for new clothes. The main thing is to take note of some advice from psychologists.\r\n\r\n \r\n

\r\n Tip 1. First, the girl needs to be sure that she needs a bra or is ready for one. How to do it? Pay attention to whether your nipples are visible through your shirt, whether you feel discomfort while running or not.\r\n\r\n Tip 2. The girl needs to practice speaking correctly about her problem. It is necessary to directly and clearly indicate what exactly is needed and why. And then, in a conversation with an older relative, the girl should say that she needs a bra and suggest going to the store soon for shopping.\r\n\r\n Tip 3. You should not worry too much, because for every woman a bra is a mandatory and necessary item of clothing. Mom was also a young girl and went through this stage much earlier. Therefore, you should not be afraid, tremble from anxiety and fear. If a mother sees that her daughter is afraid, she will also begin to worry. It’s better to approach her without losing self-confidence and tell it like it is.\r\n\r\n Tip 4. The easiest way is to simply ask your mom for a bra. Even if the mother is surprised, it is not because her daughter made such a request to her, but because her daughter grew up earlier than her mother expected. A daughter can turn to her mother with a request while walking together or reading a book in the evening when she is in a good mood.\r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n Tip 5. You can make hints, say that the shirt is narrow, or that you need to buy a T-shirt under it. Psychologists recommend that girls intentionally wear shirts one size smaller when trying them on in a store, in order to draw their mother’s attention to their rounded breasts. To avoid awkwardness, you can wait until no one is around, not even salespeople, and only then ask the mother to buy a bra for her daughter.\r\n\r\n Tip 6. A girl can ask her mother to measure her, and then go shopping. The main thing is that dad and other relatives stay at home. After all, mom is also a girl, and she has done many times what her daughter is about to do for the first time in her life.\r\n\r\n Tip 7. You can talk to your mother when she is busy with something important and cannot turn towards her daughter during the conversation. For example, when she is driving a car. In this case, awkwardness between mother and daughter is eliminated.\r\n\r\nGirls should not be embarrassed that they already need a bra, and mother will not be angry. Most likely, she has already noticed that her daughter is growing up and her body shapes and proportions are changing; in turn, she is simply waiting for her salary and the day when they usually go shopping.

Anna Gorodetskaya

Founder of panty subscription service and lingerie brand Trusbox. Loves underwear. He believes that it should please not only with beauty, but also with comfort, price and ease of storage.

A bra is a familiar thing. If you are a girl, he appears in your life as soon as your breasts grow. And that's it, you find yourself in lace slavery with underwires for the next 50-plus years. You've probably thought more than once that wearing a bra is inconvenient, ugly and tiring. But you consoled yourself with the fact that “it’s customary” and “they still wear it.” You suffer, but continue to wear bras. Common situation?

Why do you even need to do something that causes such discomfort? We counted ten reasons not to wear bras. Here they are.

1. Does not protect breasts from sagging

French scientists have proven Michelle Castillo. French Study Suggests Younger Women Should Stop Wearing Bras., that in fact, wearing a bra not only does not protect the breasts from heartless gravity, but can even cause harm. Without regular exercise, the pectoral muscles atrophy just like any other. And constant external support deprives the chest of the necessary load.

2. Stiff and makes breathing difficult

If the bra is chosen incorrectly, it will compress the chest, thereby preventing you from breathing fully (in every sense). If the straps and belt of the bra press, rub or leave red marks and dents, throw it away immediately.

3. Hurts

Women with large breasts often experience shoulder and neck pain that goes away when they remove their bra. Experiments have proven that when switching to a strapless bra or completely abandoning this item of clothing, women stop experiencing pain. Down with suffering!

4. Hard to find, not easy to pick

Finding the right bra is a science. In pursuit of the perfect one, you can go to dozens of stores and still not find anything suitable. And then spend several hours online shopping, finally order... and realize that it doesn’t fit. But you cannot exchange or return. Sadness.

5. Expensive

Underwear made from quality materials is expensive. No, EXPENSIVE. Why these expenses? It's better to buy theater tickets or.

6. Limits the choice of clothes

Have you ever turned down a low-cut dress or an off-the-shoulder top because your underwear was showing? Enough tolerating this! Just don't wear the damn bra! And if protruding nipples bother you, you can cover them with special stickers or a soft plaster.

7. Takes up space in the closet

Black, white, gray, beige, colored, silk and lace for a special occasion, cozy cotton for every day... This linen disgrace has already taken over a separate drawer and risks creeping into the territory of innocent panties. Well, I do not!

8. Ruining a romantic moment

By the way, about special cases. Men hate fiddling with bra clasps. Spare both parties this unnecessary part of the perky foreplay. In addition, you will no longer need to frantically remember whether the lace monster matches the color of your panties.

9. Destroys things when washing

These malicious hooks treacherously dig into everything they reach during the attack. Yes, you can wash bras separately in special bags. Or you can just stop wearing it!

10. Infringes on rights

The bra is a relic of a patriarchal, prudish past in which women were deprived of their physicality. Everyone has breasts. Why are we required to somehow additionally cover it with thick layers of foam rubber? It doesn’t matter whether she is big or small, young or old. It's just another part of the body. There is no shame in having it. And there is nothing terrible in the fact that others will see that it exists.

Believe me, if you stop wearing a bra, the world will not end. The planets will continue to revolve around the Sun, and will appear regularly in September. The main thing is that you feel comfortable, convenient and easy. And if a bra makes you uncomfortable, then there is no real reason to continue wearing it.

In the end, whether you wear a bra or not is entirely your own business.

It's normal to feel awkward discussing sensitive issues like body changes and puberty with your mom. However, embarrassment should not stop you from broaching such topics. Try to understand this: your mother went through the same thing when she was your age, so she will most likely understand and support you. If your mom doesn't agree that you need a bra, don't get angry, but rather remain calm and try to accept her reasons. If her arguments do not seem convincing to you, try discussing this issue with another adult you trust.

Steps

Find the courage to ask

Give your reasons why you want to wear a bra. Write down 2-3 good reasons. Try to make these reasons personal. In this case, your mother will most likely come to your position and agree with you. Plus, having arguments will give you more confidence when you talk to your mom about your needs. The main thing to remember is that your mother was once a girl who needed a bra.

• For example, if you play sports, say that the bra will support your breasts.
• If your body is developing and it becomes noticeable, say: “I need to support my breasts and cover them from prying eyes. People stare at me all the time, and I think it's because they see that I'm not wearing a bra."
• Try not to use "everyone else is wearing a bra" as a reason. Parents usually don't consider this a valid argument.

1. Share your feelings. It's normal to feel nervous or embarrassed when discussing sensitive topics like wearing a bra with your mom. Perhaps you are afraid that your mother will misunderstand you, refuse you, or punish you for this request. However, don't let these fears get in the way of talking to your mom. It’s better to translate your feelings into words when you approach her with this question.

   • For example, say, “This is a little awkward to talk about, but I need to ask you something,” or, “Mom, can I ask a personal question? I'm wondering at what age you started wearing a bra because I think it's time for me too. I hope you understand.”

2. Practice your speech. Write three or four different options for asking your mom to buy a bra. Say them out loud and think about which one sounds more relaxed. Once you have decided what you will say, practice it out loud or in front of a mirror until the words sound natural.

   • For example, you could say, “Mom, I need to ask you something. There's nothing wrong with that, but I'm a little shy. I don't know if you've noticed, but my body has changed lately. I think it's time for me to wear a bra. I believe it will help me feel more confident and comfortable with my body.”

   Ask mom

   1. Schedule a time to talk. Try not to bring up the topic when mom is busy. If she's busy, she'll be less likely to listen and hear what you have to say. It is better to prepare her for the conversation by setting a specific time. This way, mom will know that you need to talk to her about something important and will give you her full attention.

      • For example, you could say, “Mom, I need to talk to you about something important. When you have time?".
      • People tend to be more open after they eat. So bring up the issue after dinner to give yourself a better chance of success.

   2. Ask when you shop. If you don't feel comfortable asking your mom directly, try to get her thinking about buying a bra. Find a time to go shopping with your mom. And, when you pass by the underwear department, offer to come in and look at the products. Once you're inside, ask your mom, “Do you think it's time for me to wear a bra? I think the time has come.”

      • When you pass by a store, say: “Mom, maybe we should look in the bra section? I think it’s time for me to wear them.”

   3. Write a note or send a message. Try this strategy if you're afraid your mom will overreact or judge you, or if you just can't get over the embarrassment. Write a note explaining in detail why you think you need the bra. Pass her a note when she's not busy. Ask to read, think about what is written there, and then talk to you.

      • An alternative is to write a note and then read it out loud when you are alone with your mother. For example, when you are driving together in a car or walking.

   Deal with Negative Reactions

   1. Keep calm. If your mom doesn't agree with you or says no, try not to argue, yell, or whine. It is better to remain calm and maintain a friendly and understanding tone. And then ask your mom why now is not the right time.

      • For example, ask: “When do you think the right time is?” or “When did you buy your first bra?”

   2. Offer an alternative. Do this if you feel awkward about going braless and your mom still says no. Offer to buy a sports bra or tank top with built-in cups as a temporary option. Wear them for a few months, and then return to this topic again.

Choosing your first bra is a delicate and important event in the life of every girl. To make sure everything goes well and you are satisfied with your purchase, read our useful guide!

Every girl remembers her first bra. After all, this was such an exciting and long-awaited event! It seems as if after this the little girl should turn into an adult girl, ready to go out into the world. But how can you hint to your mom that you need a new part of your wardrobe, and then not make a mistake with the choice?

How to know when it's time to wear a bra

As you understand, it all depends on the personal characteristics of the body. For some girls, breasts begin to grow at the age of 10-11, while for others - only at 15 or 16.

On average, the need for a first bra occurs at 12-13 years of age.

And to understand for sure whether it’s time for you to go shopping with your mom, pay attention to a few points.

You definitely need a bra if:

How to talk to your mom about needing a bra

It’s good when you can talk to your mother about everything in the world, without embarrassment or constraint. But what if you can't find the right words? Remember that mom was once in exactly the same situation. She also dreamed of her first bra and, perhaps, also did not know how to tell her mother about it. So just go up to her in a T-shirt and tell her that you are embarrassed to walk like that. She will understand everything herself and, for sure, will meet you halfway. But first, don’t forget to watch our useful video on how to talk to your mom about growing up.

How do you know what bra size you are?

And now - the fun part! Let's find out what size you are. To do this, arm yourself with a tape measure and measure your chest circumference and underbust circumference. Subtract one from the other and compare with standard sizes:

10-12 cm - size AA (0)

12-13 cm - size A (1)

13-15 cm - size B (2)

15-17 cm - size C (3)

18-20 cm - size D (4)

20-22 cm - size DD (5)

For example, if your chest circumference is 75 cm and your underbust circumference is 65, you need a size 0 bra. And don’t worry if your breasts are still size zero or size one. You are still growing and developing.

Useful lifehack. Do you want your breasts to look beautiful? Don't slouch! , how to do it.

By the way, if you notice that your , this may mean that your period will start very soon, so don’t forget to put an Always pad in your purse.

Bra for teenagers: how to choose the right one

Don't forget, a bra is not a whim or a decoration, but a necessary thing for health. Therefore, when going to the store to buy it, remember that you need to pay attention, first of all, to functionality, and not to color and beautiful patterns.

Never buy a bra without trying it on and keep the following points in mind:

The bra should not cut into the chest.

The corset part should rest securely below the shoulder blades and not rise at the back.

Nothing unnecessary should stick out on the sides.

Avoid buying bras that are too loose or too tight. Spacious ones do not support the chest, and too tight ones tighten it, which leads to poor circulation.

The larger the chest, the wider the straps should be, because they are responsible for support.

Choose an underbust size so that you can fasten it on the closest hooks first (so you can fasten it tighter as the elastic fabric stretches over time).

Give preference to natural fabrics so that the skin can breathe.

Are you already wearing a bra?

How to talk to your mom about periods

Specialists working with teenagers at the largest educational center answer the most frequently asked questions from girls.The Nemours Center for Children’ s Health Media.

Is it true that some bras don't make breasts grow?

It is not true. It’s also not true that if you don’t wear a bra, your breasts will sag and be ugly. Whether or not to wear a bra is your personal decision. The main task of this type of underwear is to support the breasts. When your breasts grow, these are new sensations that you need to get used to. And comfortable underwear will help you with this. Among the different shapes of bras, you have to choose the one in which you will be more comfortable.

What bra shapes are suitable for girls?

Choose a uniform that is comfortable and convenient for you. As a rule, stores have lingerie sections for teenagers. Your mom, sales assistant, or any adult you trust will tell you where to find suitable underwear.

Classical(wireless bra with a closed soft cup). Bra, push-up(bras that add additional volume using foam inserts into the cups of the bra). Bustier(underwire bra with removable straps). Bra with soft cups and underwire(the cup consists only of fabric, without formative elements). Sports bra(special underwear for sports made of thick fabric, it is not intended to be worn every day).

Should I wear a bra to sleep at night?

It's not obligatory. Usually, girls and women take it off at night. But while your breasts are growing and you feel pain or discomfort at night, you can sleep in a bra that is comfortable for you.

What is the correct way to say – bra or bra?

You can use both of these words. “Bra” is a German word that is more formal and literally means “to support the breasts.” "Bra" is a diminutive form of the word "bodice" - it means the upper part of a woman's dress, covering the back and chest. “Bra” is quite usable in colloquial speech.

How do I tell my mom that I need a bra?

Many girls are embarrassed to tell their mother about this, indeed. Especially if you have not yet touched on this topic in your conversations. But when your breasts start to grow, and you feel like it’s time to go to the store for a bra, you need to muster up the courage and directly tell your mother: “Mom, my breasts have started to grow - I need comfortable underwear.” Together with your mother or any adult you trust, choose two or three options in the store. Over time you will understand which one bra shapes you are most comfortable.

Is it bad if one breast is larger than the other?

Don't worry, this is normal and not bad at all. You grow, your breasts do not grow and change at the same time, like everything else in our body. Over time, when breast development is complete, you will not see this difference in size - many women have one breast that is imperceptibly different from the other. But no one except themselves notices this, believe me. If at the stage of breast growth you are confused by the difference or it seems to you that this difference is noticeable to others, wear a shaped bra "sconce" with foam or silicone inserts - with their help you can correct temporary differences in size.

Do chest injuries happen?

They happen like in any part of the body. More often bruises occur - from an accidental blow, from being hit by a ball during sports games. While your breasts are growing, they may feel extremely tender and tender - this is normal. Therefore, during active games or sports activities, wear sports underwear - it protects. For contact sports, there are sports chest protectors - ask your coach about this. If you fall on your chest, hit yourself and have a bruise on your chest, tell your mom or any adult you trust. There is nothing wrong with this bruise and contusion; an adult will simply tell you how to get rid of it faster and better or reduce the discomfort. As a rule, the treatment of a bruise and contusion of the chest is no different from a bruise of any other part of the body.

What should I do if people stare at my breasts?

What to do, breasts have always been a subject of interest - look how many great sculptures and paintings are dedicated to breasts! If you are embarrassed by the looks of others, fold your arms over your chest or take books in front of you to cover your chest from unpleasant glances. If you feel obsessive stares, turn away or, if possible, move to another place. If this doesn't help, be sure to tell an adult you trust.

I have hair on my nipples! This is fine??

This is fine! Every person of any age - girls and boys, girls and boys, men and women - has hair on their body. A person has no hair only on his feet and palms, but on all other parts of the body. Therefore, a few hairs on a girl's nipples are quite normal, don't worry. If you have questions about hair all over your body, you can talk to your mom or your doctor. The only hair that a girl should show to the doctor is the dark dense hairs on her chest and face. During adolescence, your hormonal levels change, your body is rebuilt - the doctor will tell you how to normalize this hormonal level.

Can underwire bras cause breast cancer?

Can not. Breast cancer develops due to the growth of cancer cells inside, and it is still not known for sure why this happens. Doctors say the most likely reasons are hormonal imbalances in the body, excess weight, or if one of your relatives had this type of cancer. The shape of the bra does not provoke this disease.