Why Going Braless Won't Make Your Boobs Sag

Unfortunately, I don’t have a radical or empowering story as to why I stopped wearing bras. So, sorry about that. The sole reason was comfort. The feeling of constriction I got from a bra was not for me. I went from wearing your standard underwired padded bra to triangle bras with no wire or padding at all, sort of like a bikini top. And then I was like, “I may as well not be wearing one at all.” So that’s what I did. I’m not about to say some cliché shit like “It’s the best thing I ever did!” even though I kind of want to say that. It’s been about two years now and honestly, I haven’t looked back once. I can’t see myself going back to wearing bras. Ever.

Going braless may seem like a mad scary concept. It can feel extremely daunting to go from wearing a bra everyday from when you first began puberty to letting your titties hang free. One of the main reasons bra-wearers are apprehensive to give up bras for good is the fear of sagging. And I’m here to tell you it's a myth. All over the Internet you’ll find “doctors” warning that not supporting your boobs will lead to inevitable sagging, but actually, the truth is the opposite. Not wearing a bra allows your breasts to learn to support themselves, instead of having to rely on a bra all the time. The result? Long-lasting perkiness and roundedness.

A 15-year study conducted by sports science expert Jean-Denis Rouillon concluded that breasts gain no benefit from wearing bras. The study on women aged between 18 and 35 found that those who ditched bras had nipples on average seven millimetres higher each year than women who wore bras regularly. There are so many more added benefits to ditching bras, including boosted circulation, improved breast skin health and, of course, increased comfort. Read on to find out the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about going braless.

Q: So if I stop wearing bras my boobs won’t sag at all?

A: A wide range of factors can contribute to breast sagging, but rest assured, ditching your bra is not one of them. Genetics, aging, and multiple pregnancies can all play a part in causing boobs to sag, and many of us are bound to experience some sagging in our lifetime. But don’t think a bra will save you! Not wearing a bra will actually keep your boobs firmer for longer.

Q: What if my nips are visible through my clothes?

A: So what? They’re only nipples, everyone has them. But this approach is easier said than done, especially when you feel uncomfortable having your nips on show. Women are only shamed for our nipples because our bodies are so sexualised, especially bigger breasted women. So unfortunately, they do draw attention. If you do want to go braless but don’t want your nipples exposed, try investing in some nipple covers and see if they work for you.

Q: What if I get back pain when I don’t wear a bra?

A: Bras can be extremely useful for relieving back pain for those with larger boobs. If you want to go braless but don’t want the pain, there’s good news and bad news. The bad news is you will initially feel more strain on your back when you first say bye to your bras. But the good news is your back and chest muscles will eventually build up the strength to support your boobs without a bra. So expect some discomfort at first, but your body has your back. Literally.

Q: What if I’m nervous?

A: Naturally, going braless can feel quite nerve-racking when you have been wearing one for years. You may feel as though you don’t have the “right” boobs to go braless, whether you feel like they’re too big, too small or not the right shape. But there is no such thing as the “right” boobs. You might feel a little uncomfortable or exposed at first, but the more you do it, the more you will get used to it and the more comfortable it will start to feel. It’s a process, be kind to yourself and give yourself time.

Q: What if I don’t want to wear a bra but I still want support?

A: There are some alternatives to the standard bra if you want to get rid but still want support. You could try a no-wire no-padding triangle bra like I did, or you could wear structured clothing, vest tops, bralets etc. Try things out until you find something that works for you.

Q: But what if I want to wear a bra?

A: You do you! We can do whatever tf we like with our own bodies, and women have fought for our autonomy so we can do just that. Choosing to wear a bra or choosing not to is a personal choice. Do what’s right for you. Own your body.

Sources:

Bras Make Breasts Sag, 15-Year Study Concludes, Sarah Glynn Here’s Exactly What Happens When You Decide To Start Going Braless, Rachel Lapidos

Next up, Time To Step Beyond The Pink Ribbon