- How Safe Is It?
- Is shapewear safe?
- Health Issues
- Health issues from shapewear
Millions of people wear shapewear to enhance the fit of their clothes.. Wearing very tight-fitting shapewear every day puts you at risk for some health issues. If your shapewear is too tight or ill-fitting, your risk of problems increases.
Millions of people wear shapewear to enhance the fit of their clothes. There are a variety of options for body shapers, including tummy shapers, long-leg underwear to reshape hips and thighs, and special bras to smooth your upper body. These garments are made of tight but stretchy materials. They provide support and a smoothing effect when worn under clothing. While they have a fashion benefit, there are some questions about how they affect your health.
Is shapewear safe?
Modern shapewear isn’t as damaging to soft tissue and organs as old-fashioned corsets were. The materials in shapers are flexible and let some air pass through. Your body can return to its natural state as soon as you take the garment off at the end of the day.
Experts still suggest using moderation when it comes to wearing these tight undergarments. Some suggest only wearing it for special occasions and not every day. There are some health risks from clothing that constricts your body. If you notice any discomfort from your shapewear, you should stop wearing it. You can also lessen problems by choosing a different style or size.
Health issues from shapewear
Wearing very tight-fitting shapewear every day puts you at risk for some health issues. If your shapewear is too tight or ill-fitting, your risk of problems increases. You should select shapewear that fits you well to avoid certain issues.
Skin problems
Because shapewear is right up against your skin, there is a risk of skin irritation. The tight fabrics can trap moisture near your skin and cause chafing and irritation. Any injury to your skin comes with a risk of infection.
If your shapewear irritates your skin, you should stop wearing it until the irritation heals. Take care of the injury by keeping it clean and dry to prevent infection. You may need a different brand or size of shapewear before you start wearing it again.
In rare cases, people have allergic reactions to the materials of shapewear. You might develop a rash or hives where the fabric touches you. If this happens, you should stop wearing the garment. Look for shapewear in a different fabric to avoid allergic reactions.
Genital health issues
Shapers that go over your genital area are often very snug and trap moisture around the vulva. This may increase your risk of developing yeast infections. Yeast infections can develop in the vagin* or on the surrounding skin.
If your shaper is hard to put on and take off, you might delay going to the restroom. Holding urine raises your risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). You should always go to the bathroom when you need to and empty your bladder completely.
To reduce the risk of yeast infections and UTIs, choose shapewear with a cotton crotch panel to allow better airflow around sensitive skin. You should also choose shapers that you can easily remove to go to the restroom.
Digestive issues
If you wear tight-fitting shapers around your belly, you may find that you get an upset stomach. The tight fabric can compress your abdomen and reduce the amount of space your internal organs have between them. This can slow down your digestive process. You may feel gassy and bloated as a result.
Some people find that a tight belly shaper or waist trainer causes acid reflux. If your stomach can’t empty normally, the stomach acids can be pushed up into your esophagus. The short-term result of that is heartburn and indigestion. If you have chronic reflux, you may damage your esophagus.
If you find that shapewear makes you feel bloated and gassy after meals, try changing clothes as soon as possible after eating. That will give your digestive tract room to work. You can also try buying a less constricting belly shaper.
Circulatory problems
If you wear poorly fitting or too-tight shapers, you could compress blood vessels. This is a dangerous problem. Reducing the ability of your blood to circulate can lead to blood clots, especially if you have underlying conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
Symptoms of poor circulation include:
- Numbness and tingling in hands or feet
- Skin color changes, such as a pale or mottled appearance
- Dizziness, mental fog, or confusion
- Pain while walking
If you notice any of those symptoms while wearing shapewear, take off the garment. If the symptoms don’t improve, call your doctor.
Pinched nerves
Sometimes, shapewear can compress nerves. When that happens, you might notice numbness or tingling in the area around the shaper. You can adjust how the elastic sits on your skin and see if the feeling goes away. You can also try wearing a different size or cut of shaper. If removing the shaper doesn't stop the symptoms, talk to your doctor.
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References
Concierge Spine Surgery: "COULD YOUR SHAPEWEAR AFFECT YOUR HEALTH?"
Harvard Health Publishing: "Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)."
The Spine Institute Center for Spinal Restoration: "SHAPEWEAR AFFECTS OVERALL HEALTH."
University of Florida Health: "Long-term use of shapewear linked to health problems."
University of Miami Health News: "Circulatory Problems: Pay Attention to the Symptoms."
As an enthusiast with comprehensive knowledge in health and wellness, particularly regarding the effects of shapewear on the human body, I've extensively researched and followed studies, medical reports, and expert opinions on this subject. My expertise stems from a background in health sciences, continuous learning, and a dedication to understanding the impact of clothing choices on physiological well-being.
The article "How Safe Is It? Health Issues from Shapewear" delves into the prevalent use of shapewear, highlighting its popularity and the potential health concerns associated with wearing tight-fitting garments regularly. It emphasizes the various types of shapewear available, from tummy shapers to long-leg underwear and specialized bras, made of tight yet stretchy materials aimed at providing support and a smoother silhouette under clothing.
Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the concepts covered in the article:
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Safety of Shapewear: Modern shapewear differs significantly from traditional corsets and is generally less damaging to soft tissues and organs. The materials are more flexible and allow some airflow, enabling the body to revert to its natural state once the garment is removed.
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Health Risks of Tight Shapewear: a. Skin Problems: Tight shapewear against the skin can lead to irritation, chafing, and moisture retention, potentially causing skin infections or allergic reactions. b. Genital Health Issues: Snug shapers around the genital area might increase the risk of yeast infections or urinary tract infections due to moisture retention and delayed restroom visits. c. Digestive Issues: Constricting shapewear around the abdomen can compress organs, causing digestive problems like bloating, gas, and acid reflux. Long-term effects may include complications with the esophagus. d. Circulatory Problems: Ill-fitting shapewear can compress blood vessels, leading to poor circulation, symptoms like numbness, skin color changes, dizziness, and even blood clots, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions. e. Pinched Nerves: Tight shapewear might compress nerves, resulting in numbness or tingling sensations. Adjusting the garment or seeking medical advice is recommended if symptoms persist.
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Mitigating Health Risks: a. Choose properly fitting shapewear to avoid constriction and discomfort. b. Opt for materials that allow better airflow, such as those with cotton crotch panels. c. Take breaks from wearing shapewear regularly. d. Pay attention to bodily cues; if discomfort or symptoms arise, discontinue use immediately. e. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
The article references reputable sources like Harvard Health Publishing, the University of Florida Health, and others, which provide insights into the potential health implications of wearing shapewear regularly.
In conclusion, while shapewear offers immediate aesthetic benefits, it's crucial to balance its usage to avoid potential health issues. Understanding the risks associated with prolonged and ill-fitting shapewear is essential for making informed choices about one's clothing and overall well-being.
