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For many, the question of whether to wear a bra to bed is a personal choice—often influenced by comfort, lifestyle, or habits developed over time. Some may feel more secure with added support, while others prefer the freedom that going braless to sleep gives. But is one option actually better for your health or body than the other?
To dispel common myths and misunderstandings and help you make an informed choice, we asked three breast experts—breast surgeon Heather Richardson, MD, board-certified OBGYN Lucky Sekhon, MD, and Phoebe Kunitomi, founder and CEO of undergarment brand Okko—their thoughts.
Ahead, learn about the pros and cons of sleeping in a bra.
Meet the Experts
- Heather Richardson, MD, is a breast surgeon at Bedford Breast Center.
- Lucky Sekhon, MD, is a board-certified OBGYN and fertility specialist.
- Phoebe Kunitomi is the founder and CEO of bodywear brand Okko.
Is It Beneficial to Sleep in a Bra?
If you find bras comfortable, then yes, sleeping in them is beneficial. In fact, according to Sekhon, sleeping in a bra can reduce discomfort related to breast swelling—whether due to hormonal changes, engorgement during breastfeeding, or when trying to wean off of breastfeeding.
As wonderful as comfort is, we know you might also be wondering if wearing a bra to bed can help prevent breasts from losing elasticity and, ultimately, dropping a bit from their current position.
“While some women may be more comfortable wearing a bra to bed, there is no proof that continued support through the night has any significant effect on breast tissue,” says Richardson. “There have been attempts to both prove and disprove that wearing a bra either saves the internal ligaments from fatiguing with its support or that keeping the tissues from ‘working’ to support themselves makes them too weak and soft.” But, at the end of the day, she says it seems that good old-fashioned genetics, along with patterns of breastfeeding, has far more influence on how breast shape and appearance are maintained over time—not whether or not you wear a bra to bed.
Side Effects of Sleeping in a Bra
Just like there are no significant benefits of sleeping in a bra, there are also no significant negative side effects. “Contrary to the common rumors, sleeping in a bra does not impair blood circulation, cause breast cancer, stunt breast growth, etc,” Sekhon says.
While wearing a bra to bed can’t lead to serious health problems, Kunitomi points out that wearing a bra can potentially cause skin issues. “Wearing a dirty bra can accumulate oil, sweat, and bacteria and result in skin irritation or acne—during the day and at night,” she says.
How to Sleep in a Bra
Whether you wear a bra to bed or not, washing your bras regularly is important to avoid potential skin issues. If you opt to wear a bra to bed, make sure it is fresh and not the same one you wore for hours during the day.
While personal preference is the most important factor in choosing what bra you wear to bed (if you decide to wear one at all), there are some tips that can help you choose a comfortable one. Try to avoid wearing bras with scratchy fabrics to bed, as they may be rough on your skin and nipples. Choose a natural material like cotton or something silky and soft. Additionally, some find underwire bras uncomfortable at night, so you may want to try an underwire-free option.
Byrdie Tip
If you like the support of sleeping in a bra but it feels too constricting for you overnight, opt for a basic tank top, form-fitting camisole, or undershirt. For skin that gets irritated easily, you can try silk pajamas, which are very breathable even if they fit snugly.
Is It Beneficial to Wear a Bra During the Day?
Despite common myths and misunderstandings, Richardson says that other than cosmetic issues, there is no reason to think you need or don't need to wear a bra in an attempt to avoid more serious breast health concerns.
So, once again, it comes down to personal comfort. This is especially true if you’re bustier. “For those with larger breasts, bra-wearing can help with back and neck pain; however, some point out that posture and whether or not someone shrugs and stoops their shoulders has more influence over back and neck pain than the size and weight of breast tissue itself,” Richardson says. “Whether we wear a bra or not may make us feel more self-conscious about our breasts and how people see us, which spills into other areas of stance and comfort.”
While larger busts are on the brain, it’s worth mentioning that, as Richardson points out, women with very large breasts may see further benefits. The fabric between the bottom of the breast and the top of the upper abdomen prevents moisture from getting trapped, which could otherwise cause yeast and potentially skin fungi to grow. So, by keeping the cozy barrier, you’ll be able to reduce any possible skin irritation.
Byrdie Tip
“Bras often stretch out over time, so you should buy one that fits at the widest setting and will get more use if you can set the hooks into eyes that will hold the right amount of tightness as the materials get older,” Richardson says. “Most of the work done by a bra is at the band around the chest, not the straps, so a solid but not strangulating fit is what you should aim for.”
The Final Takeaway
Our experts agree that wearing a bra to bed (or not is entirely a matter of personal preference. As long as you wear a clean, comfortable bra that doesn't disrupt your sleep level, it should not affect any part of your lifestyle. If you enjoy the support of wearing a bra while you sleep but find it too tight, consider choosing a simple tank top, a snug camisole, or an undershirt instead.