A simple schedule
| Stage | How often |
|---|---|
| Teenagers, while developing | Every six months, or whenever a bra feels tight |
| Adults with a stable body | Once a year |
| Pregnancy | Every six to eight weeks |
| Breastfeeding | Once feeding is established, and again a few months after stopping |
| Perimenopause and menopause | Every six to twelve months |
| During planned weight loss or gain | Whenever your bras stop passing the fit check |
Check sooner if any of these happen
- A change in weight that you notice in your clothes
- Pregnancy, or stopping breastfeeding
- Starting, stopping or changing hormonal contraception or HRT
- Other medication that affects weight or fluid
- A new exercise routine that changes your back or chest muscles
- Breast surgery of any kind, once your surgeon says it is time
- A bra that used to be comfortable no longer is
What changes at each of these is covered in can your bra size change?
A five-minute self-check
You do not need an appointment to know whether your size has moved. Put on your newest bra, scoop and swoop, and look at five things.
- Band: level at the back, firm on the loosest or middle hook.
- Cups: no bulge at the top or sides, no empty space.
- Centre panel: flat on your breastbone.
- Wires: on ribcage all the way round.
- Straps: staying up without digging in.
If all five pass, your size is fine. If any fail, measure again. The checks are explained in how a bra should fit.
Is it you, or the bra?
A bra that has stopped fitting may simply be worn out. Elastic stretches with wear and washing, so a band that was firm a year ago can now ride up although you have not changed. Test with a newer bra in the same size. If the new one fits, replace the old ones. If it does not, your size has changed. See how often to replace your bras.
When a professional fitting is worth it
- Your measured size is very different from what you wear and you want confirmation
- Your size is right on paper and nothing fits, which suggests a shape question
- First bra, pregnancy, or after surgery
- You are buying for an occasion such as a wedding
- You have not been fitted for several years
What to expect is described in what happens at a bra fitting?, and where to go in the best places for a bra fitting in the UK.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you get fitted for a bra?
About once a year is a sensible routine for adults, and UK retailers commonly suggest every six to twelve months. Check sooner after any change to your body, and more often for teenagers and during pregnancy.
Do I need a professional fitting each time?
No. Measuring at home and running a fit check on your current bras covers most of it. A professional fitting is most useful when your size has changed a lot, when nothing fits, or at particular life stages.
Can I be a different size without my weight changing?
Yes. Hormones, age, medication and changes in muscle or posture all alter breast size and shape independently of weight.
Not measured recently? It takes two minutes.
Open the bra size calculator →