Q&A for How to Know when You're Ready for a Bra

Don’t worry about what anyone else will think. If you'd be more comfortable wearing a bra, then you should get one. There's a good chance the other kids won't even notice. If anyone does notice and says something to you, just tell them to mind their own business.

If they wobble a little bit, maybe get a training bra or sports bra without any padding, and then move on from there when your breasts get bigger.

Yes, it's perfectly normal. All girls develop at different ages, and I'm sure many girls your age are experiencing the same thing.

If you feel you need a bra because you are self-conscious because of growing breasts, uncomfortable playing sports, etc., you should ask for one. There is no definitive age or time when a girl should start wearing a bra, it's totally up to you.

If you are having signs of puberty (tender breasts, etc.), it’s probably time to start wearing a bra. There's no exact age when it's officially time to start wearing a bra, it's different for everyone. Just ask your mom and more than likely she will be ready to get you one.

If you're not ready, don't get one yet. You don't need a bra just because your friends are wearing one, everybody develops at a different rate. If you're absolutely sure you want to get one, try leaving your mom a note or sending her a text message, or even suggesting it when you're out shopping at a store. All you have to say is, "I've been thinking it's time I get a bra, do you think you could buy me one?"

If you're too embarrassed to ask her in person, consider writing a note or sending a text. Remember, there's nothing to feel weird about, growing breasts is a normal part of puberty and your mom understands that.

If you get the right size, it shouldn't be painful, unless you have especially tender breasts. If you find them uncomfortable, you don't have to wear them!

In some stores, they sell bras that are an in-between option. They have cups, but they don't have a clip at the back. This would be a good option for you.

I'm sure your mom knows that you'll grow out of those bras (though it may not happen as quickly as you think it will). If you're really concerned, just casually bring it to her. Say something like, "I know those bras you bought me were expensive, and I'm worried I'll grow out of them quickly. Do you think we should return them?"

Yes. You could use a piece of string and then measure the length of the string on a ruler.

It depends on how big your breasts are. If you are in the early stages of puberty, I would go for a crop top, unless you are more developed. If you think you're ready for a bra, or you'd feel more comfortable in one, then go for it. Try a sports bra or any non-wired bra before a wired one.

Try one on! See if it fits and if it's comfortable. If not, let her know you need a different size. If, for whatever reason, you're really not ready to wear a bra, just explain this to her. She should be understanding about it, she's obviously just trying to do what's best for you.

He shouldn't. Most dads understand that girls need bras at a certain age, and he should be willing to help you. Just have a conversation with him and tell him why you need a bra.

Whatever makes you feel comfortable. There's no "right age" to start wearing a bra. If you're just beginning to develop, you could start with a training bra or a sports bra, a lot of girls do that.

Both are signs of puberty, but are not really associated.

Yes! This is a great bonding opportunity. I'm sure she has some stories, and and I'm sure she'll be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Just ask her straight up! She will understand and give you the best advice possible. Remember, she had to go through the exact same thing. If anything, she'll be proud of you!

You can measure yourself and use the chart in the article to determine what size you need, or you can go to a lingerie store like Victoria's Secret and get a professional fitting. This is the best option.

In the US it’s size DDD. In Europe, it's a size F.

If you're growing breasts and you feel uncomfortable at all, if your breasts are tender, or if your nipples are showing through your shirt, it's probably time for a bra. It's perfectly fine to talk to your dad about this. Just get straight to the point, and say something like, "Dad, I need to get a bra. Can you take me shopping so I can pick one out?" You could also ask another female relative to take you if you think you'll need help, like an aunt, grandmother, older cousin, etc.

No. A training bra should only cover your breasts. A crop top should go down to about your navel.

You should wear it if you think you are developed. If buds are peeking through your shirt or you’re noticing signs of puberty, that probably means you’re just developing a little earlier than others, which is completely fine. And if you're asking if wearing a bra before you "need" one is potentially harmful, the answer is no.

You can always ask a friend for help, or go to the store to be measured by a professional.

Probably nothing. Do you have all of the other signs of puberty? Have you started your period? You may just have very small breasts. If you're concerned, talk to your doctor about this.

It's completely up to you. There is no specific age or size requirements for getting a bra. If you feel uncomfortable without one, and/or if your nipples are showing through your shirt, then you probably need a bra.

No. Some girls haven't even started puberty yet at age 9. You have plenty of time to grow breasts and you have no reason to be concerned.

You can't, you just have to wait for the process of puberty to occur. There's nothing you can do to hurry the process along.

If you feel that you need padded bas, you should definitely get them. Different people develop at different times.

Wear a crop top or something similar, like a tank top. Another suggestion is to try convincing your mom you need one.