Bras feel uncomfortable primarily because of fundamental design and fit mismatches that fail to work with your body's natural shape and movement patterns.
Most discomfort stems from bands that don't provide proper stabilization, forcing straps to bear the weight and causing shoulder strain, or from cups and underwires that don't align with your breast shape, leading to poking, digging, or spillover.
Heat, moisture, and friction can create additional irritation, particularly in the under-bust area where skin folds trap sweat and bacteria, while hormonal fluctuations throughout your cycle naturally change breast volume, making a previously comfortable bra feel restrictive.
Material sensitivities to nickel hardware, latex elastics, or textile finishes can trigger allergic reactions that manifest as itching or rashes where the garment contacts skin.
When bra shopping, make sure you're wearing the correct bra size and choosing a bra style that's best for your unique breast shape and skin sensitivities.