Is it OK to sleep in my bra?
– Fearne*

There's nothing wrong with wearing a bra while you sleep if that's what you're comfortable with. Some doctors may even recommend it when a girl's breasts are very sore.

You've probably heard all sorts of rumors, both positive and negative, about wearing a bra at night. But the truth is, there's no scientific basis to any of them. Sleeping in a bra will not make a girl's breasts perkier or prevent them from getting saggy. And it will not cause a girl to develop cancer or stunt her breast growth. (The same can also be said of the rumor that underwire bras cause breast cancer.)

Some women want to wear a bra to bed because they think it feels more comfortable. Your best bet is to choose a lightweight, non-underwire bra. Some camisole-style pajama tops even come with a bra built in. The bra you choose to sleep in shouldn't be too tight or have parts that dig in: The only time wearing a bra to bed can affect a girl's health is if the bra is so uncomfortable that her sleep suffers.

On the subject of staying comfortable, it's never a good idea (day or night) to wear bras that are extremely tight or don't fit properly. Visit a department store or specialty bra shop for regular fittings while you're growing and developing.

For more information, check out these articles:
Finding the Right Bra
Why Are My Breasts Sore?

Reviewed by: Michele Van Vranken, MD
Date reviewed: November 2007

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Although we can't reply personally, you may see your question posted to this page in the future. If you're looking for medical advice, a diagnosis, or treatment, consult your doctor or other qualified medical professional. If this is an emergency, contact emergency services in your area.

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.