After having a variety of breast issues over the years, my Ayurvedic practitioner advised me to stop wearing underwire bras. Actually, the advice was to stop wearing bras, period. I wasn’t ready for that, though, so I stepped down from underwire bras to Warner’s brand of non-wire bras first. Then, I came across the brafree.org site and read about how constriction prevents lymphatic fluid movement (critical for good health) and how too much heat can build up in the breasts with many bras, both of which are linked to a whole host of breast health issues. I ditched the non-wire bras at that point, too. I found a variety of replacement ideas and tried them all out. For me, here’s how they stacked up:
~ Camisoles are great alternatives once you get used to bouncing again (which is critical for good lymph movement), but I don’t like the bulk of the camisole under t-shirts and simple cotton knit tops — which is mostly what I wear. I reserve the camisoles for fancier tops and cooler weather. Layering is trickier in my warm climate.
~ Silicone nipple covers just didn’t make my comfort zone. Your mileage may vary. I have gotten comfortable with my nipples showing on occasion and have learned some other coping methods. The most effective is an open-front top layer in warm weather that can be taken off outside in the heat and quickly put on inside in A/C or at night when the temps drop.
~ I tried going bare under my shirts and it was fine once I got over the ‘thought of it’. My bra size has ranged 34C – 38DDD/F. By gradually transitioning from the ultra-supportive bras down to nothing over a two-year period, my breasts actually got perkier! I don’t recommend a two-year transition – LOL – it’s just how it worked out for me. However, the chafing really bothers my nipples and I would be sore for days!
~ The crop top style bras, such as Barely There and Bali brands, are the perfect solution for me! They allow my breasts to move as nature intended while preventing friction/rubbing/chafing. I no longer have horrific bruises (externally), and the ‘lumps’ (internally) have shrunk dramatically. Breast massage also helped with both of those issues. The light-weight fabric doesn’t hold heat in (related to potential risk for cancer and other health concerns). I would prefer cotton fabric! However, I have not found cotton without compression.