Yes, sleeping with a bra on is generally not recommended for most women. The compression from the bra can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort, especially if it has an underwire. Wearing a bra to bed can also lead to skin irritation, as the fabric rubs against your skin for long periods of time. It can also interfere with the natural lymphatic drainage process in your breasts.
It’s important to note that some women may find it more comfortable to sleep with a bra on, especially if they have larger breasts or are nursing. In these cases, it’s best to choose a soft, wire-free bra made of breathable material and without any seams that could dig into the skin. If you do opt to wear a bra while sleeping, be sure to take it off during the day and allow your breasts some time without constriction.
One less-known fact about wearing a bra while sleeping is that it may affect the shape and elasticity of breast tissue over time. By allowing your breasts to be free from restriction during sleep, you can promote better circulation and overall breast health. If you’re still unsure about whether you should sleep with a bra on or not, I recommend consulting with a professional fitter who can assess your specific needs and provide personalized advice based on expert knowledge.
Remember ladies: let those girls breathe.
| Effect | Evidence | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Restricted circulation | Sleeping with a bra can restrict blood flow to the breasts | Avoid sleeping with a bra to allow for proper circulation |
| Discomfort and skin irritation | Wearing a bra to sleep can cause discomfort and skin irritation | Sleep without a bra to prevent discomfort and skin issues |
| Impact on lymphatic system | Wearing a bra while sleeping may compress the lymphatic system | Refrain from sleeping with a bra to support healthy lymphatic function |
| Breast health concerns | No evidence that sleeping with a bra affects breast sagging or perkiness | It’s not necessary to sleep with a bra for breast health reasons |
| Quality of sleep | Wearing a bra while sleeping can disrupt sleep and cause discomfort | Sleep comfortably without a bra to improve quality of sleep |
| Overheating and sweating | Wearing a bra to bed can cause overheating and sweating | Opt for bra-free sleeping to maintain a comfortable temperature |
| Impact on breast shape | No evidence that sleeping with a bra affects breast shape | There is no need to wear a bra while sleeping for maintaining breast shape |
| Back and shoulder pain | Sleeping with a bra can contribute to back and shoulder discomfort | Avoid wearing a bra to bed to alleviate back and shoulder pain |
| Comfort and relaxation | Sleeping without a bra can provide a more comfortable and relaxing experience | Opt for a bra-free sleep for enhanced comfort and relaxation |
| Breathing and chest expansion | Wearing a bra while sleeping may limit chest expansion and breathing | Sleep without a bra to allow for natural chest expansion and better breathing |