How to Find the Right Bra

A good bra can solve many breast problems that arise with age, and it often takes a keen eye (of the professional kind) to spot those areas most in need of attention.

For women 40+, bras take on an extra role in supporting posture, so at this age, it's a little more about function and a little less about fashion, explains bra expert and sports physiotherapist Deirdre McGhee from the University of Wollongong's Biomechanics Research Laboratory. To best support your breasts through their daily ups and downs, McGhee outlines the three bra types you need to know about:

1. Dinner-Party Bra
The pretty, lacy lingerie you might wear under a sheer top, for example. This is a short-duration bra; it might look great but is unlikely to provide the support you need.

2. Everyday Bra
This is your long-haul bra, your T-shirt bra. It must be comfortable and, to give your breasts a younger-looking shape, it should lift while covering the bulk of the breasts in the cups. Plus, the band in front is as important as the band at the back for providing good support.

3. Exercise Bra
This is when your bra strength needs to power up a notch because when it comes to exercise bras, it's all about limiting breast movement. Your Everyday Bra is fine for light exercise such as walking, but if your breasts move around too much and feel uncomfortable, wearing a cropped exercise top over your Everyday Bra may provide enough support to limit such movement and discomfort. Otherwise, you'll need a professional to fit you for a proper support vehicle!

PLUS if you want to know more about breast health, we've compiled a guide to surgical enhancement. See it here

More from Health