Breast health and support — Women Runner Health

Breast health / support

Breast health and support

Proper support reduces pain, bounce-related fatigue, and chafing — and lets you focus on the run instead of adjusting straps every kilometre.

Breast pain during or after runs, skin irritation under bands or straps, or concern about new lumps or persistent pain unrelated to exercise.

·Running in a low-support bra for long or fast sessions — ligament strain (Cooper's ligaments) can cause lasting discomfort
·Cotton bras that hold sweat and cause chafing under the band
·Ignoring a new lump, skin change, or nipple discharge — unrelated to normal running soreness

·Get fitted or use brand sizing guides — encapsulation bras for larger cup sizes, compression for smaller
·Replace sports bras when elasticity fades (often every 6–12 months of regular use)
·Apply anti-chafe balm to band lines, underarms, and nipples on long runs
·Rinse or change out of wet bras quickly to prevent skin irritation

·New lump that doesn't go away after your period
·Persistent one-sided pain not linked to exercise intensity
·Skin dimpling, nipple inversion, or discharge — see your GP promptly
·Routine screening follows national guidelines for your age — running doesn't replace mammograms

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