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    Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Female -- Breast Development > FAQs about breast size
    Posted on: 07/05/2002

    Question

    • How big do breasts get?
    • How do I deal with different size breasts?
    • How can I make my breast bigger?
    • How do birth control pills affect breast size?
    • Does messing around increase breast size?
    • How do I determine my bra size?

    Answer

    Breasts are very different and unique to each of us. From person to person, they can be different in size, color, shape, where the nipple is, whether it is inverted or flat...etc. Everyone's nipple changes with temperature and many women have one breast that is bigger than the other. If you are uncomfortable with different size breasts, you can get a bra that is more padded on one side than the other. You can also call a local hospital ask to talk to a nurse or health educator who specializes in breast cancer or lactation, and she/he will know who makes bras especially for women with very different breast sizes or talk to your doctor about options for balancing them out.

    Many young women develop into their adult bodies very gradually -- over a period of years. Wherever you are in that process, chances are that your breasts and nipples are the perfect size for you right now. In the meantime there is no proven way or exercise for increasing or decreasing breast sizes except cosmetic surgery.

    Your breast may feel tender or swollen if you are having your period or during sexual stimulation and this is perfectly normal; however, the changes in sizes are most likely temporary. Breast size may increase naturally during pregnancy and breastfeeding but once pregnancy and breastfeeding is over, the size often returns to normal. Likewise, your breast may feel tender or feel swollen if you are having your period or during sexual stimulation but these changes are temporary.

    Birth control pills may affect the size of your breast in the same way some people gain weight while they are on the pill because women often deposit fat in breast and buttock regions.

    No method guarantees a perfect fit for everyone, but here is a guide that will help you determine your bra size.

    1. Measure rib cage (under breasts) and round up to even numbers. This is your bra size (32, 34, 36 etc.)
    2. Measure the fullest part of bust (best with a bra on). If your bust minus rib cage measurement is 0-1 inch, you are probably an A cup; if it is 1-2 inches, you are probably a B cup, 2-3 inches is a C cup, etc

    People who work in the bra sections of retail stores can also help you, take your measurements in and ask for help.

    Link to Breast Health


    Answered By:
    Teen Advisory Board


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