Chest Binding

Chest binding is an increasingly common practice some transgender and nonbinary people use when experiencing gender dysphoria and wish to make their gender presentation more compatible with their gender identity.

[Image consists of a nonbinary flag and transgender flag]

Chest binding involves using various methods to make one’s chest more male-presenting by flattening it. The two most common methods for binding involve specially designed fabric binders or binding tape.

Today I’ll be discussing some of the methods, considerations, and risks involved in chest binding. It’s important to remember this is not a how to, but rather meant to foster greater understanding and awareness for the experiences of some transgender and non-binary people.

[Image consists of a roll of binding tape]

Binding is a big decision and not something to be taken lightly. It is not a simple solution, and has many limitations and considerations. It can lead to breast pain, skin irritation, and infection. These can lead to more serious issues.

Binding isn’t a full time solution. While the increase in confidence about your body and appearance from binding can make it tempting to do as much as possible. Long term binding can lead to health complications.

Binding needs to be reassessed regularly. It is important to pay attention to any signs of injury or soreness when removing a binder. Also making sure that your binder is still the proper size as you grow and change.

Binding is often best discussed with your doctor or healthcare provider. Talking with a healthcare provider about precautions and how to care for your body when binding is important. This includes being aware of any underlying health conditions which may increase binding risks, including but not limited to asthma, scoliosis, lupus and fibromyalgia.

[Image consists of fabric binders in various colors]

Fabric binders. These are compression clothing that flatten your chest. Fabric binders can be easy to use, but it’s important to be sure you get one the proper size for you. One that is too large may not give you the results you desire, but one that is too small can be dangerous, it may lead to discomfort, restrict your breathing, cause skin irritation or breakage, lead to overheating, or even lead to rib bruising and fractures. Even mild discomfort can lead to more serious issues over time. However, binders can also be expensive (there are nonprofit organizations that provide free binders), shouldn’t be worn when exercising or for more than 8 hours a day or more than 6 days a week, and require proper care and cleaning.

Kinetic tape. This is a specialized kind of medical tape used for various purposes but is designed for use on your skin which is an important consideration when binding. When properly applied Kinetic tape doesn’t constrict your chest or interfere with breathing so can be worn for longer periods of time, however it is not a good option for everyone. Some people will experience a reaction to the adhesive, and testing a small area for a reaction is recommended prior to a full application. Another drawback is that it can be difficult to get a smooth result and it may take a great deal of time to apply. It is also a ‘single use’ product so the cost can add up over time.

Sports bras. Some sports bras have light compression and may not provide the full effect of chest flattening but can often be a first step toward binders and binding with less risks, and may be easier to obtain.

Overall, binding often involves using a variety of these options and requires being well informed and aware of the risks. But binding can also improve mental health, reduce gender dysphoria, and increase confidence.

[Image consists of updated pride flag flying]

Questions to consider:

1. Do you think it’s important for everyone to understand the realities and risks of chest binding? Why or why not?

2. Are there any myths or misconceptions have you heard about chest binding?

3. If you want to share, do you chest bind? What have you found most difficult about binding? What has been most rewarding?

Sources: https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-chest-binding
https://www.healthline.com/health/breast-binding#what-to-look-for

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