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Can Not Wearing a Bra Cause Breast Pain?

It’s common for women to experience breast pain (mastalgia) at some point in their lives. Affecting almost 70% of women, breast pain can present itself as discomfort, tenderness, swelling and soreness. Usually nothing to be concerned about, breast pain is normal and is often caused by hormonal changes and other reasons.

This article will answer some of your questions regarding painful breasts and your bra, including:

  • Can not wearing a bra cause breast pain?
  • What are the causes of breast pain?
  • What should I consider when choosing whether to wear a bra?
  • What if I have breast pain from a bra?
  • Can not wearing a bra cause nipple pain?
  • Can not wearing a bra cause back pain?
  • Will my breasts sag if I don’t wear a bra?
Causes-of-breast-pain-suffolk-breast-practice

Can Not Wearing a Bra Cause Breast Pain?

Yes and no! Simply put, there is no clear-cut answer to this. Breast pain can be associated with both wearing and not wearing a bra—it depends on the individual and the relevant factors. However, it’s extremely unlikely breast pain is caused by cancer.

Typically, the below factors have a huge impact on breast pain regardless of whether you’re wearing a bra or not:

  • Hormones
  • Injuries
  • Medical conditions
  • Medicines
  • Periods
  • Pregnancy

Factors to Consider

The purpose of a bra is to increase comfort, however, some women may find more comfort in going braless. There are no health risks associated with not wearing a bra and the choice simply comes down to personal preference, but consider these factors before choosing:

Activity level: Wearing a sports bra during any physical or sports activity will provide good breast support. During no/low activity periods, wearing or not wearing a bra would be a personal choice.

Breast size/density: Those with large or dense breasts may find more comfort in wearing a bra. The support of a bra may reduce the pressure on the back, neck, chest and shoulders, minimising breast pain.

Breast pain: People already experiencing discomfort from wearing a bra may prefer to go braless. Tender breasts may become more painful with the pressure of a tight-fitting bra. In this case, you may be wearing the wrong bra size or type.

Breast Pain From a Bra

With 80% of women wearing the wrong size bra, it’s one of the most common reasons for breast pain. Wearing an ill-fitting bra fails to provide adequate breast support and can be very uncomfortable and painful.

While breast pain from a bra is not abnormal, it may mean you’re wearing the wrong size and-or type of bra. This can also contribute to neck, back, shoulder and chest pain, poor posture, skin abrasions and chafing. A supportive and comfortable bra is vital—not only for your breast health, but for your overall well-being too.

Wearing the Correct Size of Bra

The right size bra should provide good breast support and comfort. Your breasts can fluctuate in size due to hormonal changes and changes in body shape, size and weight. It’s therefore recommended to check your bra size every six months. 

Wearing the Correct Type of Bra

Your activity levels can change throughout the day. It’s therefore important to wear the right type of bra for the right type of breast support. For example, when running, the movement of your breasts may cause pain if not supported well with a sports bra. However, when sitting on the sofa, a bralette may be suitable if little or no support is needed.

Can Not Wearing a Bra Cause Nipple Pain?

There are many reasons for nipple pain, the most common being friction. Although not wearing a bra doesn’t usually cause nipple pain, friction on the nipple may occur. Going braless may cause the nipples to rub against clothing, creating friction and resulting in soreness. Repeated friction may cause chapped and dry skin, causing bleeding.

Can Not Wearing a Bra Cause Back Pain?

Not wearing a bra can cause back pain if you have bigger breasts, whereas being braless with smaller breasts is not a huge concern for back pain. Without the additional support, you could be causing strain on your back, which worsens your posture.

Will My Breasts Sag if I Don’t Wear a Bra?

With age, the structure of the breast tissue changes as our hormones change. Glandular and dense breast tissue becomes more fatty causing breast sagging (ptosis). This is normal and may not be affected by whether or not you wear a bra. However, large or dense breasts may require a supportive bra to minimise the potential risk of premature sagging.

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Breast Pain Concerns at Suffolk Breast Practice

Can not wearing a bra cause breast pain or is it another factor? If you are concerned about your breast pain, book a consultation with our specialist Dr Hussein Tuffaha. Our expert team is always on hand to help you with any breast concerns you may have.

Our leading surgeon has a wealth of certifications and awards, including:

Visit our breast pain page to determine your symptoms and what we can do to help. If your breast pain doesn’t subside, contact us today to find a solution.

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Written by

Dr Hussein Tuffaha