From the Guidelines
Sleeping without a bra is generally better for circulation, regardless of breast size, as it allows for unrestricted blood flow and lymphatic drainage in the breast tissue and surrounding areas. Here's why: Direct recommendation: Sleep without a bra for optimal comfort and circulation. Sleeping braless can help reduce swelling, discomfort, and promote overall breast health. While breast size doesn't significantly impact this recommendation, women with larger breasts may want to consider wearing a soft, non-underwire sleep bra for support if they find it more comfortable. To implement this:
- Remove your bra before going to bed.
- If needed, wear loose-fitting, breathable sleepwear.
- For large-breasted women who prefer some support, choose a soft, wireless sleep bra or camisole with built-in support. The reasoning behind this recommendation is that tight or constrictive clothing, including bras, can potentially impede circulation and lymphatic flow 1. During sleep, allowing your body to move naturally without restrictions can promote better overall health and comfort. Additionally, giving your skin a break from constant bra contact may help reduce skin irritation and allow the skin to breathe. However, it's essential to note that the provided evidence does not directly address the relationship between sleeping without a bra and circulation, but general principles of anatomy and physiology support the idea that unrestricted movement and reduced pressure on the skin and underlying tissues can promote better circulation and overall health.
From the Research
Sleep and Circulation
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that sleeping without a bra improves circulation or that the effect is influenced by breast size 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, a study on the effect of inspiration during sleep stages found that inspiration may be considered a factor supporting the circulation of blood and the "resting procedure" during sleep 6.
- Another study on passive leg raising during cardiopulmonary resuscitation found that it may improve circulation, but this is not directly related to sleeping with or without a bra 5.
Breast Size and Circulation
- There is no evidence in the provided studies to suggest that breast size has an impact on circulation during sleep 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies provided do not address the topic of breast size and its influence on circulation during sleep.
Related Studies
- A study on the effect of nocturnal wear of dentures on sleep quality found no significant difference in sleep quality between wearing and not wearing dentures 4.
- A study on the role of circadian rhythms in sleep and recovery found that sleep hygiene aligned with circadian rhythms is crucial for disease prevention and well-being 3.
- A study on the recommended amount of sleep for a healthy adult found that sleep is essential for optimal health 2.