Is It Bad to Sleep in a Bra?

Since the day you got your first training bra, you’ve probably heard a rumor or two about sleeping in a bra.  Conflicting camps debate ages old wives tales about restricting breast growth, causing or preventing sagging and even links to breast cancer.

So is there any truth to any of it?  Or does it truly come down to a matter of personal preference?  Let’s start with science, shall we?

Is there scientific evidence of the effects of sleeping in a bra?

Quick answer: no.  Your bra, and whether you sleep in it or not, is unlikely to play a role in any of these myths.  Leaving aside breast size and medical conditions (we’re not doctors after all), let’s look a bit more at whether sleeping in a bra can cause or prevent dreaded sagging.

Gravity and elasticity are the two factors at play when looking at causes of breast sagging, making it more of an issue of time and aging than anything else.  Further, because larger breasts have more mass, well endowed women may experience more sagging. Life events such as significant weight loss/gain and pregnancy/breastfeeding can also contribute.

The Positives of Sleeping in a Bra

Even if it can’t counter the effects of time and size, some women still find they prefer to sleep in a bra, and there are some potential positive effects:

Some find it more comfortable

Especially for those with larger chests, a sleep bra may help contain breasts while sleeping.  To maximize comfort, select an unstructured bralette or even a pajama top that features a built in shelf bra.

Helps with breast soreness

For tender and sore breasts, especially during times of growth like puberty and certain phases of a woman’s monthly cycle or pregnancy, some doctors will recommend sleeping in a bra.  Postpartum mothers may also choose a sleep style to support nursing and manage lactation.

 

What Type of Bra is Best to Sleep in?

There’s a difference between falling asleep in your bra (oops!) and choosing a bra to sleep in.  While the bra you wore out on the town may benefit from underwire and/or padding, the one you wear to bed won’t.  Look for unlined styles made of lightweight, soft fabrics in a relaxed, comfortable size.

Unlined and No Wire

Lining, or padding, as well as structured underwire could shift during sleep, digging in and causing irritation.  If your bra has removable pads and you choose to use it for sleep, simply take them out at night and place back in upon waking up.

Lightweight

Blankets, sheets, pajamas.  The last thing you want when wearing a sleep bra is additional heft.  Instead, choose a thin, breathable material that moves with you. Because the last thing you want to disturb your sleep is boob sweat.

Soft

Soft, smooth materials such as microfiber and mesh are great choices for a barely there feel.  When choosing a bra or tank, look for fabrics that feel like a second skin, sleek yet supportive, whether worn alone or under pajamas.

Not Tight

True across all bras, proper sizing will ensure your sleep bra is not too tight.  If your bra leaves impressions on your skin it may be too restrictive, and ultimately, uncomfortable as you naturally shift during sleep (no one wants to be awoken by an ill fitting bra, am I right?).  Day or night, you want the fit to be right.

At the end of the day (quite literally), whether you go to bed in a bra or not, is purely a personal choice.  Comfort is key for restful sleep and as long as you choose a style that supports rather than restricts natural movement, you shouldn’t fear any potential consequences, nor expect any miracle time reversing results.

Whether your night time style is a scoop or v-neck, skinny strap or racerback, longline or tank, there’s a True Body style made for your best night’s sleep (feel free to consider it a bonus if it takes you straight into your day too).