Hi All,
One goal for BRAugust this year was to create a community resources post focused around breast health. We wanted to create a place were we can share our knowledge, our support and our stories.
Here are the resources we’ve collected:
-First I want to let you know about: Breast Health & Lingerie: A Community Conversation. It’s a LIVE event that is happening Monday August 3rd at 12PM EST on the Bra Builder’s Instagram, with a recording to be uploaded to Youtube later. This conversation will be about breast health including breast cancer, nursing and body changes with a focus on expert opinions on fitting and shared personal stories. It will be a powerful and helpful chat!
-Siena of the Lingerie Formula has written and incredible post ‘Understanding your Anatomy: The Foundation of Breast Health‘. This highly detailed post dives into breast anatomy to promote a deep understanding of all the parts that make up the breast and surrounding area. It also discusses breast shape and the variety of factors such as volume distribution, projection and breast root that can all have an impact on the bra that will best fit and support you.
-Siena also shared a resource from the National Cancer Institute: Understanding Changes and Conditions, A Health Guide.
-I added a tutorial to my blog on turning the Jordy Bralette into a Nursing Bra, so nursing moms can have cute and functional bras!
-Maddie of Madalynne Intimate has released a Mastectomy Bra Pattern, The Bianca, this pattern is perfect for post-op. In this link you can also find the video where Maddie shares her story about her preventative double mastectomy, and a Sew Along for the Bianca Mastectomy Bra.
-Cassie of Primrose Dawn Designs has a pattern for the Val Breast Prostheses to go with her Annika Wireless Bra and Zenita Wireless Bra patterns. She also has a Solace Mastectomy Pillow and the Jacinta Chemise for post-op comfort.
-Ruhee of Rubies bras shared some of her tips for making a breast prosthesis in her blog post. She also has an excellent post discussing Normalizing Asymmetry and Uneven Breasts.
-Cashmerette has a post on ‘How to Make an Asymmetrical Bra‘ with examples from their bra patterns.
We also wanted to share some community stories:
Charlotte’s Story
“I had a breast condition in 2018 that required surgery (and has left me a little asymmetric). I don’t have any resources around the condition, it’s called Breast Ectasia or Mamary Ectasia – it’s non-cancerous but scared the life out of me when I started to get symptoms. I first noticed the problem because I thought I had something that looked similar to balsamic vinegar spilt on the right breast area of a white shirt that I was wearing – I soon realised that the staining was coming from my breast – pressure of the car seat belt, running, accidentally brushing against something all caused this horrible looking black/brown (old blood) discharge. The end result was a surgery called a ductectomy where the surgeon cuts around 3/4 of your areola and removes your milk ducts. The reason I am telling you this gruesome tale is that I had never heard of the condition before becoming symptomatic and so immediately assumed it was breast cancer and became terrified – and I would imagine anyone else with these symptoms would feel the same. If you google the condition it’s “age related” but in 2018 I was 44 not 64.” – Charlotte of Wishanger Bespoke
Maddie’s Story
As an adult, Maddie took a proactive approach to managing her own risk. She followed every recommendation from her doctors. Mammograms, breast MRIs, ultrasounds, and annual exams became a regular part of her life. While she was grateful for the technology and screenings available to her, the constant cycle of appointments and waiting for results took an emotional toll. Every scan came with uncertainty, and every clear result was followed by the knowledge that another screening was just around the corner. Over time, she felt like she was living with a ticking clock over her head. Screening could help catch cancer early, but it couldn’t prevent it.
In 2026, Maddie made the decision to undergo a prophylactic double mastectomy with reconstruction. The choice wasn’t made out of fear. Instead, it came from a desire to take control of her future, reduce her risk and find peace of mind.
The decision held a special significance for Maddie. As the founder of Madalynne Intimates, a company focused on lingerie, bra-making education, and helping people feel confident in their bodies, she understood just how personal breasts can be to a woman’s sense of self. The surgery wasn’t simply a medical procedure—it was a personal journey that challenged her to rethink her relationship with her body.
Recovery has been both physically and emotionally demanding. Like many women who choose reconstruction, she has experienced the highs and lows of healing. From tissue expanders and follow-up appointments to navigating temporary physical limitations, recovery has required patience and grace. Some days she has felt strong and optimistic. Other days have been a reminder that healing isn’t always a straight path.
Throughout the process, Maddie has chosen to share her experience openly. By documenting her journey, she hopes to provide support, education, and encouragement to others facing similar decisions. She knows how overwhelming and isolating the experience can feel, and she wants other women to know they are not alone.” – Maddie of Madalynne Intimates
These are the resources and stories that we’ve collected so far, but I encourage anyone with resources, stories or support to share them in the comments. We are all one big community and the more we can share our support, knowledge and awareness the more we can help each other with difficult parts of life 🙂
xo
erin
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