Big breasts may be the envy of many, but those who have them know big boobs are not without their problems. Big breasts can result in a range of issues, from everyday concerns, like unwanted attention, to chronic pain, skin irritation, and other health issues. Many may feel that their big breasts are a source of pain, frustration, and insecurity. 

Fortunately, many big breast problems have simple solutions. Read on to learn about common issues associated with big boobs, possible solutions, and when to talk to a medical professional. 

• Can Having Large Breasts Cause Health Issues?

• Everyday Problems Caused by Large Breasts

• How to Relieve Big Breast Issues

• When to Seek Help for Big Boob Problems

• Embrace Your Big Breasts and Feel Good in Your Body

Can Having Large Breasts Cause Health Issues?

Large breasts can certainly cause inconveniences, but can they cause health issues, too? In short, the answer is yes. 

Read on to learn about the big breast problems many women face. 

1. Chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain

Anyone with large breasts knows the pressure it can put on your back, neck, and shoulders. As your body supports the additional weight of your large breasts, it can cause chronic pain, discomfort, and even changes to your skeleton. 

Some women may develop divots in their shoulders where their bra straps sit. This happens as a result of the weight of their breasts.

One study showed that women with large breasts experience significantly more musculoskeletal pain in their upper torso than women with smaller breasts. The study discovered significant stress placed on their chest and upper back when bending forward, known as thoracic flexion torque. As women’s breast sizes grow, the stress on their bodies increases.¹

2. Posture problems 

Another big boob problem is in regards to posture. Women with larger cup sizes are scientifically proven to have an increase in curvature of their upper back, known as their kyphotic angle. Additionally, their spines and torsos twist to compensate for their heavy breasts and alleviate some of the pressure on their backs and shoulders.²

3. Skin irritation

Everyone experiences chafing and skin irritation at some point in their life, but for women with large breasts, skin irritation can be an everyday occurrence. Having large breasts most often results in skin irritation beneath the breasts, either from contact between the breast and the torso or from their bras rubbing on their skin. 

This type of irritation is called intertrigo. It’s caused by moisture and friction and results in redness and itching. In some cases, it can result in sores or blisters. Though rare, it can lead to both yeast infections and bacterial infections.³ 

4. Shortness of breath

In some cases, having large breasts can make it difficult to breathe. The weight of large breasts can restrict the chest from properly expanding to get a full, deep breath. One study showed that women with large breasts who underwent breast reduction surgery showed an increase in pulmonary function and were able to breathe deeper after their procedure.⁴

5. Numbness

Another rare but worrying problem caused by large breasts is a feeling of numbness and tingling throughout the breast, arms, and hands. Science suggests this is a result of nerve compression due to the excess weight put on by large breasts. It may also be caused by an ill-fitting bra or poor posture as a result of having large breasts. 

Everyday Problems Caused by Large Breasts

Not all big breast problems are damaging to your health; some can cause social discomfort, frustrations, and other difficulties. Here are some everyday problems caused by large breasts: 

6. Unwanted attention

Unfortunately, unwanted attention is a common big boob problem. Having very large breasts can catch people’s attention and cause them to stare. It can also cause unwanted sexual attention, an uncomfortable problem for many women. 

Various women with large breasts experience shame, lack of confidence, and other problems from the attention their large breasts receive. 

7. Trouble finding a bra that fits

Another problem with big boobs is simple: finding a bra that fits. Women with a non-traditional cup size to band size ratio may find bra shopping a real challenge. While they may occasionally find a nude bra in their size, fun and sexy bras can be totally out of the question. 

8. Difficulty exercising comfortably

When you have large breasts, exercising comfortably can be a challenge. Again, this often boils down to the type of bra you’re wearing. Typical sports bras may not be designed with the support that big boobs require. We recommend looking for compression sports bras to minimize bounce and relieve the pressure on your back. 

9. Outfit malfunctions and fit issues

Big breasts can also lead to problems surrounding the way your clothes fit. For most women with big breasts, a button-up shirt is totally out of the question. It can lead to gaping and potentially expose your bra—or worse, pop a button off. Beyond that, simply finding a shirt or dress that fits both your breasts and your waist can be a real challenge. 

How to Relieve Big Breast Issues

Fortunately, big breast problems aren’t a total dead end. Use these tips to help relieve your issues: 

Get a properly fitting bra

Much of the discomfort caused by your large breasts may be the result of a poor-fitting bra. Take our bra fit quiz to find your true bra size, or get a professional fitting. 

Choose the right kind of bra

Finding the right bra isn’t just about size, but about style, too. For instance, women with large breasts should stay away from push-up bras, as they can add extra volume and often lack support. Instead, look for comfy bras to sleep in and for everyday life. 

Replace your bras regularly

Just like other types of clothing wear out, bras wear out, too. Signs it’s time to replace your bra include loose seams, stretched-out straps, and more. 

When to Seek Help for Big Boob Problems 

In some cases, your big breast issues may require medical attention. If you’ve identified health concerns that you think are caused by your big boobs and a well-fitting bra isn’t helping, it may be time to talk to a doctor. They can perform a breast exam and help you find solutions to the problems caused by your big breasts. 

Embrace Your Big Breasts and Feel Good in Your Body

You deserve to feel good in your body, both physically and emotionally. If you struggle with these big breast problems, it’s time to take steps towards a happier and more comfortable life. 

For a well-fitting women’s bra in a range of sizes, there’s no better source than Soma. We carry cup sizes A-H in band sizes 32-44, so you can find your perfect fit. Find your new favorite bra from Soma today. 

Sources:

1. Coltman, Celeste E., et al. “Effect of Breast Size on Upper Torso Musculoskeletal Structure and Function.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, vol. 143, no. 3, Mar. 2019, pp. 686–695, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30817639/, https://doi.org/10.1097/prs.0000000000005319. Accessed 2 May 2025.

2. Michalik, Roman, et al. “The Effect of Breast Size on Spinal Posture.” Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, vol. 48, no. 7, 24 Oct. 2022, pp. 1331–1338, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11035396/, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-022-03141-w. Accessed 2 May 2025.

3. Under-Breast Soreness (Intertrigo). Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, www.ruh.nhs.uk/patients/patient_information/BRU030_Intertrigo.pdf. Accessed 2 May 2025.

4. Yavuz Kececi, and Seyhan Dagistan. “Effects of Breast Reduction on Pulmonary Function.” International Surgery, vol. 99, no. 4, 1 July 2014, pp. 300–304, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4114352/, https://doi.org/10.9738/intsurg-d-13-00060.1. Accessed 2 May 2025.