Yes, you can sleep without a bra. Whether or not to sleep in a bra is entirely a matter of personal preference and comfort.
The Comfort Factor
Many women find sleeping without a bra more comfortable. A bra, even a comfortable one, can feel restrictive and interfere with sleep. Letting your skin breathe overnight can also be beneficial. This Reddit thread highlights the importance of allowing skin to breathe to prevent irritation and potential skin problems.
Health Considerations
Some sources suggest that sleeping without a bra may be better for breast health. One Quora response states that sleeping in a bra can cause problems. See this Quora answer. Another source notes that there's no evidence that sleeping without a bra causes sagging, which is primarily due to aging. See Piedmont Healthcare's article on bra use. However, other sources point out that there is no definitive harm in sleeping with a bra, health-wise. See this Reddit discussion.
Post-Surgery Considerations
After breast surgery (augmentation, lift, or reduction), the advice changes significantly. It's crucial to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding bra usage. The recovery period and recommended bra usage vary widely depending on the procedure. Some surgeons recommend wearing a supportive bra for several weeks, while others may allow sleeping without one sooner. Examples of relevant questions and answers can be found on sites like RealSelf: example 1, example 2, example 3, example 4, and example 5.
In Conclusion
Ultimately, as one health expert concluded, the decision of whether or not to sleep in a bra rests on individual comfort and preference. However, always prioritize your surgeon's recommendations post-surgery.
