Does not wearing a bra cause breasts to sag? That’s a good question without a clear answer.
We may not feel fashionable with saggy breasts, but wearing a bra can be awfully uncomfortable. Let’s sort through the information so that you can choose what to do about supporting your breasts – or not.
Do bras prevent sagging?
Studies show that wearing a bra isn’t 100% effective in keeping breasts from drooping. In fact, some women who go braless have a firmer chest.
Things become more complicated when you realize that most women wear bras that don’t fit properly. Not only are they painful to endure, but they are also failing to provide appropriate support.
What makes breasts sag?
Whether or not breasts sag depends on our genetic makeup and several other factors. If you’ve been pregnant and done breastfeeding or had weight fluctuations, those contribute to breast sagging. Your age, how elastic your skin is, and how dense your breasts are also have an impact.
Breast structure matters more than whether you wear a bra
Breasts fill with fat, and that leads to ptosis or sagging. They start as condensed glandular tissue supported by ligaments securing them to the chest wall. But as we age, breasts become less firm, and the ligaments stretch.
Women who are full-breasted when young are likely to suffer ptosis if they don’t wear a bra. That’s because the ligaments stretch out sooner.
Moreover, Cooper’s ligaments and your skin are the only source of support for breasts. As anyone with a large chest knows, boobs hurt if they bounce too hard, which is why bras are recommended when exercising.
Can ditching a bra stop breast sagging?
If you are an A- or B-cup, not wearing bras may help prevent drooping. That’s because a brassiere may weaken your pectoral muscles. In fact, if you strengthen your pecs, you may slow down or avoid sagging.
However, a bra may have the opposite effect if you are a C-cup or larger. The support can help prevent the ligaments from elongating too much.
Does not wearing a bra prevent back pain or cause it?
When you have a large chest, you’re prone to back pain. Even worse, it’s a Catch-22 situation. If you go braless, you may feel more comfortable in the short term. However, not wearing a bra may contribute to poor posture and back pain.
The key is wearing a properly fitted bra with adequate padding and support to remove the strain from the shoulders, back, and chest. Here’s an example:
Warner’s Cloud 9 Comfort Bra
Say goodbye to the discomfort of ill-fitting, constricting bras, and say hello to comfort and style. This dream bra offers a smooth and invisible look with features designed with your ultimate comfort in mind.
It provides full-sided coverage, enveloping you in a supportive embrace. At the same time, it allows your skin to breathe, ensuring you stay fresh from morning to night. Meanwhile, the wide, hardware-free straps won’t dig into your shoulders.
Warner’s Cloud 9 bra offers easy sizing options from S to 3XL. Plus, it’s available in various colors, and it’s machine-washable, too.
Does wearing a sports bra prevent saggy breasts?
A sports bra provides excellent support during boob-bouncing activities. It also takes the weight off the shoulders and back. But sadly, if you wear a sports bra daily, it may have adverse effects. It could weaken your back muscles and put pressure on the nerves around the rib cage. And it won’t do anything more than a regular bra to prevent sagging.
What exercises ward off breast sagging?
If you tone your chest and back muscles, it may firm your breasts. For example, it’s helpful to use resistance bands to target these areas. But remember, boobs don’t have muscles. If you’re in pain, try exercising lying down so that the breasts don’t put more strain on your body. Many floor-based exercises can build strength and flexibility.
What happened with the study that said not wearing a bra would reduce sagging?
Scientists in France tracked women aged 18 to 35 over 15 years. The conclusion was that the nipples on the breasts of women who never wore bras were always higher than the nipples of women who always wore bras. In other words, braless women experienced less sagging. They also experienced less back pain.
Nevertheless, the study noted that women over 45 would not benefit as much from going without a bra.
What are the best bras to wear if you hate wearing them?
Even if you hate feeling restricted by a bra, you have options. Some brassieres are very comfortable and stylish. Here are the most comfortable bras to perk up your chest and put a smile on your face:
Calvin Klein Invisibles Comfort Bralette
Calvin Klein’s bestselling bralette is lingerie that feels as good as wearing nothing. It offers a flexible fit and a seamless finish that disappears under clothing. Slip it on, and you’ll delight in the smooth, lightweight, breathable microfiber fabric. With removable pads and adjustable straps, it provides just enough coverage and support for comfort all day long. What’s more, it’s available in a wide range of colors and sizes for sizes 30 through 46, cups A to D.
Maidenform Comfort Devotion T-Shirt Bra
One of the standout features of the Comfort Devotion is its SmartZone® cups for extra shape and lift. This innovative technology holds you in place comfortably while smoothing the sides and back. Meanwhile, the sleek nylon blend feels extra soft against the skin.
What’s more, the adjustable, convertible straps are wearable crisscross-style or regular for flexibility with your wardrobe. Choose from a variety of colors, all of which are machine-washable.
Conclusion
In summary, there’s no clear-cut evidence between going braless and breast sagging. Similarly, the idea that wearing a bra definitively prevents sagging remains uncertain.
However, women with fuller breasts may find that having proper support minimizes stretching and alleviates back discomfort. Ultimately, the key is to choose a well-fitted, comfortable bra that complements your lifestyle and fashion choices, particularly for exercise. Nevertheless, there’s no harm in enjoying the freedom of going braless when it suits you!
Source:
Bras Make Breasts Sag, 15-Year Study Concludes, Medical News Today, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/259073#1