Binder Fitting and Care

Binding or compressing breast tissue to give the appearance of a flat chest is a common gender-affirming practice among transgender and gender nonbinary individuals. Binding may help a patient reduce gender dysphoria by presenting themselves in a way that is more congruent with their gender identity.

Studies show that binding is often essential for transgender individuals’ mental health. However, binding can be unsafe and can cause serious physical side effects, including:

  • Rib pain
  • Skin Irritation
  • Nerve compression
  • Muscle soreness
  • Breathing issues

As part of the Middlesex Health Center for Gender Medicine and Wellness, we offer binding support. Patients are advised by a registered occupational therapist. During this appointment, the therapist will:

  • Measure your body and determine the appropriate size binder
  • Provide several choices to determine the best fit
  • Advise on how to bind safely
  • Demonstrate exercises to protect muscles from soreness and support lung function

This service is available to patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment, contact your health provider to acquire a referral to therapy, then call (860) 358-2700 to schedule your appointment for binding.

The Do’s and Don’ts When Owning A Binder

On average, 97.5% of individuals who bind their chest experience at least one negative physical side effect due to improper binder usage. Unfortunately, out of that 97.5% of individuals, only 14.8% report those issues to their medical providers. We're here to help you take care of you and your binder so this doesn't happen!

DO

DON'T

Be sure you can take a deep breath while wearing your binder/ work on breathing exercises when wearing your binder (incentive spirometer use)

Wear binder for days without washing 

Stretch while wearing your binder

Wear binder to bed/ while sleeping 

Make sure your binder is properly washed, fully dried, and cleaned before wearing 

Bind your bare chest with Ace Bandages or Duct Tape 

Dry off skin properly and check for skin break down regularly 

Wear binder if skin is visibly moist and/or dark spots are present 

Take a day off from wearing binder 1x a week if comfortable 

Do not bleach, iron, or place binder in the dryer 

How to wear your binder:

Ideally, hold both straps of the shirt and step into the garment. Pull up the garment and slide arms though armhold and adjust for comfort 

How to wash your binder: 

Hand washing your binder in cold water with delicate detergent/soap is preferred however if choosing to use a washing machine, use a gentle setting with cold water. Do not let your binder soak for prolonged periods of time as that might damage the fabric. When drying your binder, hang or lay flat to dry. If placed in the dryer, binder may shrink and have the potential to place you at risk for injury

Additional Recommendations:

It is sometimes advised to not wear your binder when partaking in physical activity/exercising; however, as a part of your transitioning journey, you may feel more comfortable working out with your binder. Whatever you are most comfortable with is acceptable however make sure your breathing is not compromised!

Binder Request Form

Please note: The free chest binders are offered by Health Care Advocates International, and this program is not affiliated with Middlesex Health.