What Is the Average Breast Measurement?

Much of society judges a woman's sexuality and attractiveness on the size and shape of her breasts. Entire industries have emerged which solely exist to help women enhance their breasts. Bigger is often seen as better, but many men (and women) have misconceptions concerning the average breast size.

How are Breasts Sized?

Breasts are measured in cup sizes. These range from AA up to DD and beyond. AA is the smallest cup size and the DD is much larger. It should be noted the same cup sizes are not universally used and will vary from country to country.

How Are Bra Sizes Determined?

Two measurements are needed to determine a woman's bra size. The first is the distance around her chest just below the breast. The second measurement is taken at the fullest portion of her breasts. The difference in these measurements is compared to a chart which will list the appropriate bra size.

Average Cup Size

A C cup size is generally considered average; however according to data, only 28% of women have size C breasts. The most common cup size of women in America is a B, with some 44% of women wearing this size.

Overall Measurements

Lingerie manufacturers report the most common bra size sold in 1996 was a 34B. While this is not scientific data, it is supported by data from the UK which shows the most popular bra size to be 36B.

Size Increase

While the average in 1996 was 34B, reports show the current average is a 36C. In the UK the average has gone up to a 36C while in Asia the average breast size has increased from a 34A to a 34C. This data is once again based on bra sales and may not be representative of actual averages. Many other factors could result in higher sales of certain bra sizes.

References

• Average Breasts

Photo Credit

Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of C.P.Storm