What Happens If You Stop Wearing Your Bra?

Your breasts are one of the most precious assets you have. These magical organs can restore hormonal balance, feed babies and increase your self-confidence in the blink of an eye.

Ever since the first bras were invented in the 14^th century, they have become an essential piece of clothing in women’s wardrobes.

Lately, though, more and more ladies have decided to go braless; but is this choice that beneficial?

Today, we’ll explore some of the main differences you may notice should you choose to go braless. Stick with us until the end for some expert breast tips!

1. You might feel neck pain

Constance M. Chen, certified plastic surgeon in New York City, says that ladies with very large breasts can experience plenty of neck pain without a bra. Since the weight isn’t distributed the same way, your breasts cause extra pressure to your neck which leads to pain and discomfort.

A study published in The Journal of Orthopaedics linked large cup sizes to shoulder pain as well; that’s because the weight of the breast is pulling on the trapezius muscle. This muscle is running from the back of your neck towards the shoulders and on the upper back.

In such cases, choosing a high-quality bra may provide extra benefits while reducing long-term health risks such as chronic pain.

2. Your posture might improve

Those who advocate for going braless often refer to bras as ‘breast prisons.’ Unfortunately, unless you pick the right option, they can truly have a devastating impact!

Bras that are too small in size, too tight or made of synthetic materials can lead to breast soreness. Furthermore, if you’re breastfeeding, a tight bra can even block your milk ducts which can cause mastitis (a condition that might require antibiotics if left untreated!).

Going braless might also improve your posture, since the wrong bra can also exacerbate muscle tension and stiffness.

 

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3. Your breasts could be more likely to sag

Essentially, bras are designed to hold your breasts in place. Dr. Chen explains that a good quality bra can even offload the Cooper’s ligaments in the breasts, which could delay the sagging process in the long run.

However, bras are definitely not guaranteed to keep your breasts young and firm forever.

Alexis Parcells, certified plastic surgeon at Parcells Plastic Surgery in New Jersey, points out to a study from the Annals of Plastic Surgery. This research shows that breast drooping is strongly linked to age, body mass index, smoking and pregnancy.

 

4. Your workout may be different

Dr. Chen amusingly says that working out braless may lead to your breasts ‘swinging around like uncontrolled weights, which can be uncomfortable.’

However, he is absolutely right about it.

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Biomechanics looked at how different sports bras and footwear can change spinal mechanics while running. Surprisingly, those who were exercising braless subconsciously compensated for their swinging by moving their upper body differently while jogging. In the long run, this difference may lead to spinal pain, stiffness and discomfort.

Captain’s Tips

• Wearing a sports bra during workout is essential to keep your breasts safe from injury and improve your posture.
• If you’re unsure about your cup size, it’s best to ask from professional help to reduce the risk of breast pain, irritation or even infections.
• While you’re at home, it’s always beneficial to offer your breasts some freedom and go braless.
• If you’re experiencing any unusual symptoms, make sure to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Shockingly, 12% of U.S. women are developing breast cancer at some point during their lifetime.

 

What are your bra-wearing habits? Share your tips and favorite bra brands in the comment section and let’s keep each other healthy and comfortable!