N
%Begin Chest or breast binding: Tips, side effects, safety, and more Health ConditionsHealth ConditionsAlzheimer's & DementiaAnxietyArthritisAsthma & AllergiesBreast CancerCancerCardiovascular HealthCOVID-19Dermatology & SkincareDiabetesEnvironment & SustainabilityExercise & FitnessEye HealthHeadache & MigraineHealth EquityHIV & AIDSHuman BiologyInflammatory Bowel DiseaseLeukemiaLGBTQIA+Men's HealthMental HealthMultiple Sclerosis (MS)NutritionParkinson's DiseasePsoriasisSexual HealthWomen's HealthDiscoverNewsLatest NewsOriginal SeriesMedical MythsHonest NutritionThrough My EyesNew Normal HealthPodcastsHow to understand chronic painWhat is behind vaccine hesitancy?The amazing story of hepatitis C, from discovery to cureNew directions in dementia researchCan psychedelics rewire a depressed, anxious brain?Why climate change matters for human healthToolsGeneral HealthDrugs A-ZHealth HubsHealth ToolsBMI Calculators and ChartsBlood Pressure Chart: Ranges and GuideBreast Cancer: Self-Examination GuideSleep CalculatorHealth ProductsAffordable Therapy OptionsBlood Pressure MonitorsDiabetic SuppliesFitness TrackersHome GymsGreen Cleaning ProductsHow to Shop for CBDQuizzesRA Myths vs FactsType 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood SugarAnkylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or FictionConnectAbout Medical News TodayWho We AreOur Editorial ProcessContent IntegrityConscious LanguageNewslettersSign UpFollow UsMedical News TodayHealth ConditionsDiscoverToolsConnectSubscribe
What is binding and how can I do it safely Medically reviewed by Meredith Wallis, MS, APRN, CNM, IBCLC — By Anna Smith on June 29, 2022Binding, also known as chest or breast binding, is the process of compressing or reducing chest tissue. The aim of binding is to make a person’s chest look flatter.
visibility
250 views
thumb_up
6 likes
M
This can be helpful for trans and nonbinary people. Doctors generally consider binding to be safe.
thumb_up
16 likes
O
However, if a person does it incorrectly, it can lead to certain health issues. This article looks at binding, how to do it safely, and its possible risks.
thumb_up
34 likes
G
What is binding
Share on PinterestAlfonso Sangiao/Getty ImagesBinding is the act of compressing chest tissue to make the chest area appear flat. Individuals can achieve this using various compression techniques, such as using sports bras or specialized binders.
thumb_up
43 likes
E
Why do people bind
A person may use binding as a way to affirm their gender identity. People who are transgender or nonbinary may find that binding helps them feel more comfortable with their bodies.
thumb_up
15 likes
A
Although some trans and nonbinary individuals use chest binding, it is not necessary for everyone. There is no right or wrong way to be trans, and a person can express their identity in the way that suits them best. Other reasons that someone may use a chest binder include:to reduce chest size due to obesity or a health condition such as gynecomastiacosplay or dragmanaging chest or gender dysphoriaaesthetic preferencebeing able to fit into “male” clothing more easilyto feel safe in publicto help with healing after chest surgery
Methods for chest binding
There are various methods a person can use to flatten their chests.
thumb_up
33 likes
S
The method they choose may depend on their:chest sizebudgetcomfort levelbody type
Binder
Specialized binders are tight garments that people wear underneath clothing. They are for compressing the chest tissue. Binders are the safest and most recommended way for a person to bind their chest.
thumb_up
28 likes
A
Binders come in different sizes and varieties. Some cover the chest only, while others are torso length and also compress the hips. Sports bras
People can also use sports bras as chest binders.
thumb_up
12 likes
E
Sports bras with higher Lycra content are more effective in compressing the chest than other bras. However, there is conflicting information about whether a person should layer multiple sports bras or not.
thumb_up
24 likes
S
Comfort is important when someone is binding — an individual should always keep their safety in mind when binding their chest. If a person feels pain or discomfort during binding or experiences difficulty breathing, they should remove their sports bra or binder and seek an alternative.
thumb_up
11 likes
H
Layering clothing
A person may find that wearing multiple layers of clothing helps make their chest look flatter. They can start by wearing a tight-fitting shirt, followed by layers of looser-fitting clothes.
thumb_up
16 likes
E
However, individuals should be cautious when using this method, as they could overheat from wearing too many layers. Athletic compression shirts
Athletes wear compression shirts comprising of Spandex or Lycra to help with muscle recovery.
thumb_up
47 likes
D
A person can also use these shirts to make their chest appear flatter. This method generally works best for people with small amounts of chest tissue.
thumb_up
46 likes
S
A person can purchase them from sports companies online or in-store. Kinetic tape
While some people use kinetic tape to flatten their chests, this practice is not safe, and healthcare professionals advise against it. Kinetic tape is a type of elastic sports tape that people use to support their joints and muscles.
thumb_up
2 likes
H
However, manufacturers do not design it for chest compression. Using kinetic tape to bind can restrict a person’s breathing, and LGBTQIA+ healthcare specialists recommend against its use. How to buy a binder
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products.
thumb_up
6 likes
R
All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication. Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process.
thumb_up
48 likes
B
Learn more here. Different chest binders are available in different places.
thumb_up
20 likes
K
People can buy sports bras or athletic compression shirts in athletic or sports shops or online retailers. Specialized binders are currently available to buy online. Websites that sell binders include:gc2bUnderworksFLAVNT StreetwearMyDOUBLE DESIGNFtM EssentialsTransguy Supply
Sizing
Sizing is important when buying a binder.
thumb_up
22 likes
M
Wearing binders that are too small may lead to health problems. A person can use the following tips to measure themselves for a binder:use a flexible fabric measuring taperelax and breathe normallyuse a mirror for accuracyavoid looking down when measuringmeasure at the widest part of the chestwrap the measuring tape around the back, taking care to keep the tape under the armpits and above the nipplesmeasure the shoulders by bringing the tape from one shoulder point to the other over the top of the backround up to the fullest half inch
Binder sizes may vary from site to site, so a person should check each site’s sizing chart. Cost
Binders can vary in price from around $30 to over $100.
thumb_up
34 likes
W
Additionally, full torso binders may be more expensive than half binders. Certain sites offer binders at lower costs or free for people who might not be able to afford them.
thumb_up
37 likes
A
Sites that offer free binders include:Point Of PrideGenderbandsAmerican Trans Resource Hub
What are the side effects and risks of binding
If someone does not apply chest binding correctly, they can experience certain health issues. Research from 2017 found that 97% of people who bound their chest daily had at least one negative symptom.
thumb_up
2 likes
M
Possible risks of unsafe chest binding include:chest painscarringoverheatingshortness of breatha buildup of fluid in the lungsreduced exercise tolerancedifficulty speakingbroken ribsback painskin issues
It is important for a person to wear a binder that fits them properly. This can help reduce possible negative side effects.
thumb_up
7 likes
G
Things to avoid
A person should never bind with:duct tapeelastic bandagesplastic wrap
These materials are unsuitable for use as binders, as they can restrict breathing and movement. Using these materials can also cause rashes and cuts. In some cases, they can damage or break ribs.
thumb_up
42 likes
D
Chest binding and health conditions
Certain health conditions may make binding difficult or dangerous. Conditions that may worsen through binding include:asthmascoliosisfibromyalgia
If a person has any of these conditions or other conditions that affect posture or breathing, they should speak with a healthcare professional before binding. Additionally, individuals should never bind when they are sick.
thumb_up
0 likes
C
This can cause fluid to build up in the lungs, which can be extremely dangerous. How long should you bind for
A person should always bind for under 8 hours per day, ideally taking breaks from their binder throughout the day.
thumb_up
48 likes
S
Wearing a binder for extended periods can cause skin irritation, breathing problems, or back pain. It is also important for individuals to take off their binder before sleeping.
thumb_up
45 likes
H
Sleeping in a binder can be harmful to the body. Binding and exercise
A person should take off their binder before exercising.
thumb_up
7 likes
A
A binder can make breathing and moving more difficult during exercise. When exercising, individuals can instead use a properly-fitted sports bra to bind.
thumb_up
29 likes
O
Hygiene
A person should make sure they wash and air dry their binder frequently. This can help reduce skin irritation and infections. Binders can also cause someone to sweat more frequently.
thumb_up
17 likes
M
The buildup of sweat on the skin can cause sores, rashes, or chafing. People can use deodorant or body powder to reduce the risk of irritation.
thumb_up
45 likes
S
Chest binding and surgery
Information from Canada’s McLean Clinic suggests that a person should bind less frequently before having gender-affirming chest surgery, also called top surgery. Binding may impact the skin’s elasticity, which can affect healing and recovery. Healthcare professionals also recommend that a person stops binding 4–6 weeks before having top surgery.
thumb_up
3 likes
N
Very tight binding can increase the risk of infection or scarring. Learn more about top surgery.
thumb_up
39 likes
H
Summary
People use chest binding to flatten their chest tissue. There are many reasons a person may bind, such as gender affirmation or aesthetic preference.
thumb_up
22 likes
I
Individuals can bind using various methods, such as sports bras or specialized binders. It is important for them to bind safely, as practicing improper techniques can lead to health problems.
thumb_up
19 likes
L
A person should not wear a binder for more than 8 hours per day. They should also remove it before sleep or exercise. Additionally, people should speak with a healthcare professional if they have any health conditions that binding could affect.
thumb_up
11 likes
J
Last medically reviewed on June 29, 2022LGBTQIA+ 7 sourcescollapsedMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references.
thumb_up
32 likes
M
We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.How to bind [Fact sheet]. (n.d.).https://stonewallcolumbus.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/SWC-Trans-Binding-Tips-Pamphlet.pdfMcLean, H.
thumb_up
24 likes
A
(2019). Safely bind your chest prior to FTM top surgery in Ontario [Blog].https://ftmtopsurgery.ca/blog/top-surgery/how-to-properly-bind-your-chest/Peitzmeier, S., et al.
thumb_up
39 likes
O
(2017). Health impact of chest binding among transgender adults: A community-engaged, cross-sectional study [Abstract].https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2016-59259-005Safe binding [Fact sheet]. (n.d.).https://www.daphealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Safer-Binding-Brochure.pdfSafer binding [Fact sheet].
thumb_up
22 likes
C
(n.d.).http://callen-lorde.org/graphics/2018/09/Safer-Binding_2018_FINAL.pdfTop surgery (mastectomy) potential risks and complications [Fact sheet]. (2019).https://thrive.kaiserpermanente.org/care-near-you/southern-california/transgender/wp-content/uploads/sites/26/2020/11/Chest-Masculinizing-Surgery-Risks-and-Patient-Instructions.pdfUnderstanding binding: A resource guide for parents of transgender youth [Fact sheet]. (2019).https://www.chla.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/Binding_English%20parent.pdfFEEDBACK:Medically reviewed by Meredith Wallis, MS, APRN, CNM, IBCLC — By Anna Smith on June 29, 2022
Latest newsWhat sets 'SuperAgers' apart?
thumb_up
34 likes
O
Their unusually large neuronsOmega-3 may provide a brain boost for people in midlifeSeasonal affective disorder (SAD): How to beat it this fall and winterCDC: Monkeypox in the US 'unlikely to be eliminated in the near future'Why are more women prone to Alzheimer's? New clues arise
Related CoverageWhat transgender men can expect after gender-affirming surgeryMedically reviewed by Kevin Martinez, MD
There are different types of surgery for transgender men.
thumb_up
44 likes
S
Learn more about how long to wait until it is safe to have sex and other sexual health tips…READ MOREMental health for transgender men: What to knowMedically reviewed by Francis Kuehnle, MSN, RN-BC
Transgender men face a number of mental health concerns. Working past personal and societal stigmas may help them access care and find the support…READ MORESexual health and transgender men: A guideMedically reviewed by Francis Kuehnle, MSN, RN-BC
It is important to know about sexual health.
thumb_up
5 likes
L
Learn more about sexual health for transgender men here.READ MOREWhat does it mean to be apagender?Medically reviewed by Janet Brito, Ph.D., LCSW, CST
An apagender person is apathetic toward their own gender identity. Learn more about what this term means, finding support, and being an ally.READ MOREWhat does it mean to be genderqueer?Medically reviewed by Francis Kuehnle, MSN, RN-BC
Genderqueer refers to a group of identities that reject or defy traditional gender norms. Learn more.READ MORE
thumb_up
19 likes
Similar Discussions
-
Bray Wyatt Sting 3 Superstars who could potentially replace Malakai Black as the new leader of The House of Black in AEW
-
Reims vs Lens prediction preview team news and more Ligue 1 2022 23
-
First Day of Fall Memes 8 Hilarious Tweets to Welcome Autumn
-
Meteora My Space Fighter APK Download for Android
-
Hello Seafood 2 APK Download for Android
-
Joffrey Lauvergne Asvel souffre d une rupture des ligaments crois s du genou droit Basket Euroligue H
-
Qu es el congreso del Partido Comunista Chino y por qu es importante Pol tica Internacional
-
Elon Musk podr a deshacerse del 75% del personal de Twitter Expansioncom
-
Los Angeles Guerrillas win $100K CDL Resurgence Warzone tournament Final results
-
Grounded Where to Find Mites The Nerd Stash
-
Fortnite Best Landing Spots in Chapter 3 Season 3
-
Destiny 2 Update 4 0 1 2 Patch Notes The Nerd Stash
-
quot We re Not Really Paying The Suppliers quot Musician Exposes This Influencer Couple Who Asked Him To Play At Their Wedding Without Pay
-
Photographer Spots Sneaky Grey Whale Next To Unsuspecting Whale Watchers
-
Social Responsibility Marketing 7 Awesome Examples
-
How to Enable or Disable the On Screen Keyboard in Windows 10
-
What Is a Car Radio Code?
-
How to Add an Eject Menu to the Mac Menu Bar
-
Compare Mercedes AMG EQE vs Tesla Model S Performance CarBuzz
-
Compare Audi S5 Convertible vs BMW 4 Series Convertible CarBuzz
-
If You Track Your Car Porsche Says NOT To Buy Its Best Brakes CarBuzz
-
Pixel Watch deal mdash buy one get one free at AT amp T Tom s Guide
-
腘动脉瘤 医生与科室 妙佑医疗国际
-
The best movies of 2022 you can stream on Netflix HBO Max Hulu and more Tom s Guide
-
Jury deliberations begin in trial of man accused in Wisconsin Christmas parade deaths
-
Ear Stapling Does It Really Work Cleveland Clinic
-
Moose Wears Etsy
-
Build Your Own Gas Tank
-
Fedex Drop Off Time
-
Tsb Ford F150