Fit Problem
Why Does My Bra Underwire Hurt?
Wire pain can come from width, position, height or damage - not always from the size being wrong, and not always something to size around.
First test to try
Check whether the wire sits on breast tissue rather than around it, whether it extends past your breast root, and whether it's visibly bent, twisted or poking through the fabric.
Possible causes
- Wire sitting on tissue instead of surrounding it - usually too small a cup.
- Wire wider than your breast root - usually too large a band, or the wrong wire shape for your frame.
- A damaged or worn wire, which needs replacing before any sizing conclusion.
- A wire shape that doesn't suit your projection or shape, independent of size.
What to try
If the wire sits on tissue, try the next cup size up. If it's too wide, try a narrower wire in a smaller band with the matching sister cup up. If it's damaged, replace the bra before drawing any conclusion from it.
Persistent wire pain that doesn't resolve when you remove the bra is not a sizing issue - see our medical disclaimer and consider seeking medical advice.