Q&A for How to Bind Safely

If you feel like you can't order a binder without your parents finding out, for example, try reaching out to community centers or other trans people in the community who could help you. Many people donate binders to these organizations, and they can help you get one for yourself.

A sports bra can work as a binder. You can add another sports bra on top of that to make your chest appear more flat.

Try getting to the root cause of your gender dysphoria. Is it your voice? Is it your chest? Is it your height? Sometimes this is something that you can't change. If that's the case, remember that you have the right to love your body and that no matter what society tells you, you can associate it with whatever gender expression you want. To work through gender dysphoria, it can also be very helpful to talk to a therapist that specializes in the transgender experience.

Say that you're not interested in a large chest (or whatever your reason is for wanting to bind) and that it's the only reason why you want to flatten your chest. Clear up any questions they have about your preferred gender. If they reject the idea, tell them it's something you actually want and it's not because it's a trend or anything.

No. This will compress your chest and could break your ribs.

Yes, you can, as long as you do so safely.

You can buy binders that are specifically designed for swimming, but it's not recommended for you to wear a regular binder in the water. It could constrict your chest and restrict your breathing or movement, which is dangerous.

Multiple sports bras at once and tank tops are safe. However, never bind for more than 8 hours a day.

If you haven't tried other brands of sports bras, consider giving those a try to see if those compress any better. You can also try testing out the camisole method and layering shirts to hide your chest. Unfortunately, though, most household materials aren't safe to bind with. If you need a binder but can't get one, try looking for ways that you could get one - such as through a binder donation program or having a friend receive the binder for you so they can give it to you without suspicion.

First off I want to tell you to keep being you no matter what anybody says. You can question why they were noticing your chest in the first place, tell them it's none of their business, say you're wearing a different bra, etc. You can also retort with a comment about their body (rude, not recommended but sometimes needed). You can also explain you're transgender.

Try using the sports bra method -- I've found it to be really helpful. Whatever you do, DO NOT use ace bandages or duct tape, as they could cause permanent damage.

It is possible. Some websites have discreet boxes, so when you order it, it won't reveal anything. If they ask, you can tell them it's for a costume.

No, but keep in mind that binding for a long period of time can cause some health issues, so make sure you do your research before deciding to go ahead with it. However, it's your body and you should do whatever you feel is most comfortable for you!

Don't do it for more than eight hours at a time. If it starts to hurt or you can't breathe, take it off. Other than that, you should be okay.

You have to be very careful when binding, especially if you are taking part in physical activity. It should be safe, as long as you are sure you are getting enough airflow, and there is no reduction of air and blood circulation.

A real binder is generally the best option, but it's perfectly fine to use a sports bra if you don't have access to a binder. Just make sure you follow the safety tips for whichever method you decide on.

Every form of binding your chest comes with risks, so it's important to minimize them. Don't bind for more than eight hours and don't 'double bind' (use use two or more things that compress your chest at once). Most importantly, listen to your body. If you can't breathe well or your body hurts, take it off and take a break from binding. Another effect of binding is that it will make your chest tissue softer. That said, binding with a sports bra should generally be OK, if you take the safety measures seriously.

Show them this article to show that you have done your research on how to bind safely.

Yes, you can try that if it is comfortable. You may exercise also.

No. Invest in a binder or look up safe methods. Tights are not a good solution.

There has been no evidence that can accurately prove that binding leads to breast cancer. However, it is still good to only bind when necessary (for example, binding at night when you sleep isn't necessary). This allows the skin to breathe, as well as for your lungs and spine to have a break from the compression.

Try explaining that you're uncomfortable with your breasts and that binding is a way to reduce their appearance.

You could. Sports bras are more breathable than most binders, but make sure not to wear more than two at a time. Also, to be utilized safely, they must be the right size.

It doesn't hurt too much if the binder is the right size. It may be slightly uncomfortable, but if it's causing constant pain, then it's time to take it off and/or get a bigger size.

You could find a friend whose family is okay with binding, then buy one online and have it delivered to their house. You could also wash it at a laundromat or at a friend's house, or tell your parents that you're going to start doing your own laundry.

It wouldn't work well for binding but you might find it gives you more support. Try it and see, but don't keep it on if it is painful or uncomfortable.

Neither is unsafe, but you may make yourself sore and uncomfortable.

Yes, but be safe and never bind for more than 8 hours a day. If it starts to hurt, take it off immediately.

No, because this will restrict your breathing if it is not flexible. Always bind with a real binder or the double sports bra method, but only the latter if absolutely need be.

You can always try binding with a sports bra or possibly with a cami tank top, depending on your chest size, until you can get a binder.