Menopause and perimenopause can leave you hot, sweaty, and miserable. Body and hormone changes can make you hot one minute and chilly a few minutes later. Besides the hot sweats (and the word night sweat is a definite misnomer), you can have other changes which make buying or wearing bras difficult. But, you still need to go on with your day and your life. So, what you need is a comfortable bra for menopause and perimenopause. Preferably, something that won't leave you sweating.
The problem is that many bras are made with fabrics that aren't breathable or moisture-wicking, that just makes the problem worse. You may find that previously comfy bras are now sticking to your chest and trapping moisture next to your body. Since taking multiple daily showers usually isn't feasible, you need something made out of materials that will help you stay cool and dry.
Menopause can also cause some women to gain weight. Some get it in the midsection, while others find that the weight ends up in their chests. If that's where you gain weight, you will need a larger bra size than you'd been wearing before. Make sure to measure yourself (or get measured) so you have a better idea if your size has changed and what size you need. Check this page on getting a bra that fits for more tips on how to find the right size.
Even if you stay the same size, old bras that once fit just fine may now make you miserable. The hormonal fluctuations can lead to swelling, tenderness and soreness (kind of like semi-permanent PMS). Your old bras ride up on your torso, the wires dig into your chest, and the bra sticks to your body.
The problem is that many bras are made with fabrics that aren't breathable or moisture-wicking, that just makes the problem worse. You may find that previously comfy bras are now sticking to your chest and trapping moisture next to your body. Since taking multiple daily showers usually isn't feasible, you need something made out of materials that will help you stay cool and dry.
Menopause can also cause some women to gain weight. Some get it in the midsection, while others find that the weight ends up in their chests. If that's where you gain weight, you will need a larger bra size than you'd been wearing before. Make sure to measure yourself (or get measured) so you have a better idea if your size has changed and what size you need. Check this page on getting a bra that fits for more tips on how to find the right size.
Even if you stay the same size, old bras that once fit just fine may now make you miserable. The hormonal fluctuations can lead to swelling, tenderness and soreness (kind of like semi-permanent PMS). Your old bras ride up on your torso, the wires dig into your chest, and the bra sticks to your body.
Banded bras may suddenly either poke you in the ribs or end up too high on your chest. It's uncomfortable and can make you want to tear the bra off ten minutes after you put it on.
You may also find that you end up with breast tissue that is sagging or deflated and that you need more support than you used to. Once your hormones have stabilized, try this list of bras for sagging breasts.
Since the perimenopause/menopause cycle can go on for years, it's important to be as comfortable as possible while it does. I've grouped these by feature, but I've listed the size ranges and the appropriate body type at the end of each description.
Banish the sweat, and keep cooler with one of these bras.
The secret to this bra? Spacer foam. It's knit with little air pockets built right into the fabric to improve circulation and allow more air to pass through the bra (don't worry, nothing shows!) That makes it much lighter and cooler than the fabric in a standard bra. So, it's more comfortable during menopause or perimenopause.
There's some padding, but it's still thin and much less bulky than standard t-shirt bras. The straps are inset and it has a leotard (U-shaped back). The straps won't slide off (even if you have narrow or sloping shoulders).
Plus, a wide back band and side boning keep lumps and bulges under control. The side support also helps push your tissue forward to keep everything front and center.
This one comes in full bust sizes. So you can get a band as small as 30 and cup sizes from D to G (depending on band size).
Comes in seventeen different colors (!) including beige, taupe, ivory, white, black, blues, pinks, wine, and red US sizes 30D-DDD, 32-40 C-G and 42D-DDD. (full bust/full figure)
A bra with smooth foam cups (for modesty), embellished with scalloped floral lace along the bottom and the back of the band. The 3D fabric makes it cooler and breathable.
The straps are fully adjustable so you can get them just the right length even if you are tall (or have a short upper torso - yes, in this case the same feature works for both ends of the height scale).
Comes in white, sand, blush, berry, scarlet, french blue, indigo, rose, and black in EU sizes 30-34 C through G; 36 B-F; 38B-38E and 40 B-D. The cups are running a bit big, so you may want to go down a cup size and up a band size. (full bust)
Cool, breathable cotton keeps those perimenopause and menopause hot flashes under control. It breathes, it washes well, and it's soft against your skin. A good choice if your skin is sensitive, since it's nearly entirely cotton.
It's bandless so it is a good choice if you are short or have a larger stomach (banded bras tend to rub, and can be less comfortable if you are swollen). A wide center panel makes it a good choice if you are wide-set.
Most of the colors are completely smooth, with no lace or trimming to show under clothing (there are two colors, white and beige which have the option of a bit of lace trim along the edges of the cups).
Comes in white, sand, cobalt blue, pink, red, heather gray, and black, plus white and sand with lace. US sizes 34B to 44DD. (average cup)
Soft, cool, breathable cotton! Yay! There are no wires to dig into your stomach or armpits, but this bra still gives great support. There's a band that wraps around the inside of the cups and connects to the straps (like a super-sling) so you'll get good support and lift even without a wire.
The straps are padded to prevent rubbing against your skin. It does have horizontal seams, which will give you a more conical shape. If you have trouble with back and side bulges, the tall sides and back will help keep bumps under control.
And, it's pretty too.
UK sizes 38-58 B, C, D, DD, F, G, H, and I in pink and white. (full figure)
This bra is 86% cotton, to keep you cool. The fabric is slightly stretchy for a more custom fit and it's completely smooth (no seams or bumps to show under your clothes).
It's not a t-shirt or contour bra, so it will mold to your shape (rather than having one of its own). However, it's also double-lined for modesty and better support.
The back has a leotard U-shape so the straps will stay in place and not slide off your shoulders.
Comes in white, taupe, pink, lilac, pale blue, and heather gray in US sizes 34B-D, 36, 38, 40 B-DDD and 42C-DDD. (average cup/full figure)
Keep cool with a bra that won't make you think you'll melt when your temperature spikes. The lining pulls moisture away from your skin so you'll stay dry.
There's some light padding, for a more natural, rounded shape. However, it's not thick or heavy and the bra will fold flat for traveling. It also has padded straps for extra comfort and no wires to rub against your skin.
A plunging neckline and smooth cups allow you to wear this under v-neck t-shirts or thin tops without worrying that anything will show through under your clothes. There's an extra piece of fabric under the cups for more stability and support (to make up for the lack of wire a bit).
Comes in US sizes 36C-44DD in gray/black, almond, pale blue, sea blue, violet, and white. (full figure)
Entirely cotton, except for a bit of elastic where the straps attach, along the top of the band, and on the tops of the cups (this makes it fit better). Otherwise, it's just pure, cool, comfort. There are no wires to poke you.
There's no padding either, but the bottoms of the cups are thicker to prevent show-through. Seaming gives you more lift and a better, more rounded shape.
The high back and sides provide bulge control and keep you looking smooth.
Available in white, beige, and heather gray in US sizes 36D, 38B-D, 40 B-DD, 42B-DD, and 44 C -D (full figure).
Perfect for leisure/around the house/pandemic wear, this bralette is nearly entirely cotton, with a bit of spandex.
Special material inside the cups of this bra helps keep moisture away from your body and prevents you from getting overheated when you have a hot flash. The cups are contoured (molded into a specific shape), so there's no show through and it's smooth under clothing. It's a racerback and the straps adjust in front, so you don't have to twist and turn to put it on.
It's a low cut wide plunge style, so if you are close-set, this may not be the best choice for you (you may spill over into the middle).
Comes in gray, toasted almond, and white in US sizes 34-40 A-C. (average cup)
Or, get a sports bra. Since they're are designed to remove moisture, they will keep you cooler. And many don't have a wire to start with. I've listed both underwire and wire free styles below. If you do get the sports bra, sister size to a larger band, smaller cup for a better fit.
Another sports bra that really doesn't look like one. You can wear it as an everyday bra (even if you don't plan to exercise). Put it on to go to work and then wear it after (or on a weekend) for power walking, yoga or low impact sports.
It's not specifically for menopause, but it's made from breathable, moisture wicking fabric that pulls wetness away from your skin, so you feel cool. The center is wide, so it's better if you are wide set. There's only a thin underband and the center is arched, which also makes it a good choice if you have a larger stomach.
The straps are pulled in (close set in the back) so there's less chance of slippage.
Comes in white, champagne shimmer, several shades of pink, heather gray, turquoise, fuchsia, lavender, mint, and black in US sizes 32-42 B through DDD. (average cup/full figure)
Another sports bra that can do double duty as a comfortable menopause or perimenopause bra. And, it looks like a regular bra. The sheer panels add a touch of elegance, while the super breathable fabric makes it practical and easy to wear. Wear it to work, for a night out, or off to the gym for a light workout.
There are no seams to show through your clothes and no bulky padding either. Plus, the racerback won't show under tank tops. This style is best if you are wide-set, shallow, or tend to point in opposite directions. It's also bandless, which is better if you have a larger stomach, or if you are bloated.
Get this one in your sister size for better fit (band size up, cup size down).
Available in white, toast, and bra sizes 32D-38 B-DD (full bust)
Super easy to wear and great for everyday wear or even sleeping. It's a low impact sports bra, with no underwire to dig into tender skin. It's nearly entirely made of cotton too (96%), so it will be cool and comfortable in hot weather or if you get hot flashes from menopause.
There's no seams to show through your clothes, either. It has a high front, so it's best under jewel neck or turtleneck tops. There's no metal or clasps, just pull it over your head. Another thing, it comes in larger band sizes up to 56 and cup sizes up to G!
Comes in black, blue tie dye, gray, white, blue print, plum, purple, and burgundy floral in US sizes 36B/C/D through 56 DD/F/G. Note that the size listings are doubled on Amazon for some reason. (full figure, large band/small cup).
Cute cutouts in front, and an inset strappy design in back gives this bra a fashionable look and feel. The straps adjust so you can get just the right length, and the cups are molded (shaped) so no uni-boob.
Most of all, it has both mesh panels (to let the air out) and special moisture wicking technology to keep you dry. It's a medium impact bra, so there's more support if you're feeling especially sore. Since there's a regular clasp, it's easy to remove at the end of the day.
Comes in a boatload of colors with contrasting trim, including reds, pinks, blacks, purple, mint, stars, stripes, or just plain black. Sizes XS-XL (roughly US 32A through 38D) (average cup).
This bra breathes like cotton and won't leave you feeling hot and sweaty. There are no underwires to pinch or poke, and the underband gives soft, gentle support under your breasts.
It has built-in slings (little extra bits of fabric) on the sides of the cups to help push you forward and give better definition (no uniboob). The straps are soft and wide for better comfort; they're also inset in back so they won't slip.
US sizes 36B-D, 38B-DDD, 40-42 B-DDD, 44C-DDD, and 46DD in ivory, beige, white, black, and pale lilac. (full figure)
Made of a soft cotton blend with no wires, hooks, or bulky padding. Just pull it over your head and you're done. The elastic underband helps keep everything in place when you bend over. There are no seams or lace to show under clothing either. Keep in mind that Calvin Klein runs small!
Also since there is no wire, this is a better choice for smaller busts (or just lounging at home if you are larger).
Comes in blues, reds, black, green, white, black, stripes, plus logo prints in sizes XS-L (average cup).
Fashioned from super-soft pima cotton, cotton, and a touch of elastic. It's 93% cotton! There's no decoration, just a tiny lace trim along the edges of the cups.
No wires or slings or bulky padding either, just a light lining for modesty and a touch more support. This is a great lounging bra on the larger side and just perfect for smaller busts that don't need a lot of lift or shaping.
Available in white, mocha, black, tan, and gray in sizes XS/S, S/M, M/L, and L/XL or 30-38 A, B, and C.
A bit of a cross between a bralette and a sports bra, with enough support for light exercise, without any wires. There's some padding, but you can take that out if you prefer. It will also keep you smooth because the sides and back are high, to help combat lumps and bulges.
Wear it around the house, for power walking, or under everyday clothes; it's multifunctional. The material is cooling so it will keep you comfortable when your temperature changes.
Black, sand, rose, and red in sizes 32-40 (roughly 32-40A-D) (average cup). Some sizes in more colors.
You may also find that you end up with breast tissue that is sagging or deflated and that you need more support than you used to. Once your hormones have stabilized, try this list of bras for sagging breasts.
Since the perimenopause/menopause cycle can go on for years, it's important to be as comfortable as possible while it does. I've grouped these by feature, but I've listed the size ranges and the appropriate body type at the end of each description.
Comfortable Bras for Menopause
First, there's the problem of sweating. Bras made of cotton or moisture-wicking materials will be more comfortable and less sweaty than bras made of standard fabrics. They won't be labeled for menopause or perimenopause, but the idea behind names like "cooling touch" or "play it cool" is to minimize moisture and discomfort.Banish the sweat, and keep cooler with one of these bras.
The secret to this bra? Spacer foam. It's knit with little air pockets built right into the fabric to improve circulation and allow more air to pass through the bra (don't worry, nothing shows!) That makes it much lighter and cooler than the fabric in a standard bra. So, it's more comfortable during menopause or perimenopause.
There's some padding, but it's still thin and much less bulky than standard t-shirt bras. The straps are inset and it has a leotard (U-shaped back). The straps won't slide off (even if you have narrow or sloping shoulders).
Plus, a wide back band and side boning keep lumps and bulges under control. The side support also helps push your tissue forward to keep everything front and center.
This one comes in full bust sizes. So you can get a band as small as 30 and cup sizes from D to G (depending on band size).
Comes in seventeen different colors (!) including beige, taupe, ivory, white, black, blues, pinks, wine, and red US sizes 30D-DDD, 32-40 C-G and 42D-DDD. (full bust/full figure)
A bra with smooth foam cups (for modesty), embellished with scalloped floral lace along the bottom and the back of the band. The 3D fabric makes it cooler and breathable.
The straps are fully adjustable so you can get them just the right length even if you are tall (or have a short upper torso - yes, in this case the same feature works for both ends of the height scale).
Comes in white, sand, blush, berry, scarlet, french blue, indigo, rose, and black in EU sizes 30-34 C through G; 36 B-F; 38B-38E and 40 B-D. The cups are running a bit big, so you may want to go down a cup size and up a band size. (full bust)
Cool, breathable cotton keeps those perimenopause and menopause hot flashes under control. It breathes, it washes well, and it's soft against your skin. A good choice if your skin is sensitive, since it's nearly entirely cotton.
It's bandless so it is a good choice if you are short or have a larger stomach (banded bras tend to rub, and can be less comfortable if you are swollen). A wide center panel makes it a good choice if you are wide-set.
Most of the colors are completely smooth, with no lace or trimming to show under clothing (there are two colors, white and beige which have the option of a bit of lace trim along the edges of the cups).
Comes in white, sand, cobalt blue, pink, red, heather gray, and black, plus white and sand with lace. US sizes 34B to 44DD. (average cup)
Soft, cool, breathable cotton! Yay! There are no wires to dig into your stomach or armpits, but this bra still gives great support. There's a band that wraps around the inside of the cups and connects to the straps (like a super-sling) so you'll get good support and lift even without a wire.
The straps are padded to prevent rubbing against your skin. It does have horizontal seams, which will give you a more conical shape. If you have trouble with back and side bulges, the tall sides and back will help keep bumps under control.
And, it's pretty too.
UK sizes 38-58 B, C, D, DD, F, G, H, and I in pink and white. (full figure)
Banish the Underwires and Go Wirefree
If standard underwires start to bother you, go for a wire-free bra instead. There are bras with stronger bands, control top, simplex, and powermesh materials and other features that will still give you decent support, even without a wire. And, since there's no wire, there's nothing to dig in or poke tender tissue. As a bonus, these bras are made of cotton or other breathable fabrics, so you can keep your cool while wearing them.
This bra is 86% cotton, to keep you cool. The fabric is slightly stretchy for a more custom fit and it's completely smooth (no seams or bumps to show under your clothes).
It's not a t-shirt or contour bra, so it will mold to your shape (rather than having one of its own). However, it's also double-lined for modesty and better support.
The back has a leotard U-shape so the straps will stay in place and not slide off your shoulders.
Comes in white, taupe, pink, lilac, pale blue, and heather gray in US sizes 34B-D, 36, 38, 40 B-DDD and 42C-DDD. (average cup/full figure)
Keep cool with a bra that won't make you think you'll melt when your temperature spikes. The lining pulls moisture away from your skin so you'll stay dry.
There's some light padding, for a more natural, rounded shape. However, it's not thick or heavy and the bra will fold flat for traveling. It also has padded straps for extra comfort and no wires to rub against your skin.
A plunging neckline and smooth cups allow you to wear this under v-neck t-shirts or thin tops without worrying that anything will show through under your clothes. There's an extra piece of fabric under the cups for more stability and support (to make up for the lack of wire a bit).
Comes in US sizes 36C-44DD in gray/black, almond, pale blue, sea blue, violet, and white. (full figure)
Entirely cotton, except for a bit of elastic where the straps attach, along the top of the band, and on the tops of the cups (this makes it fit better). Otherwise, it's just pure, cool, comfort. There are no wires to poke you.
There's no padding either, but the bottoms of the cups are thicker to prevent show-through. Seaming gives you more lift and a better, more rounded shape.
The high back and sides provide bulge control and keep you looking smooth.
Available in white, beige, and heather gray in US sizes 36D, 38B-D, 40 B-DD, 42B-DD, and 44 C -D (full figure).
Perfect for leisure/around the house/pandemic wear, this bralette is nearly entirely cotton, with a bit of spandex.
It has a J-hook in the back so you can easily convert it to a racerback to wear under tank tops.
It won't give you a great deal of lift or shaping, but it is more supportive than most bralettes because of the elastic band on the bottom and the three sets of hooks in the back.
You may want to sister size, as the bands are running tight. So, if you normally get 34C, try a 36B instead.
This comes in a two pack: gray/white, sand/white, sand/black, or black/white in sizes 34-38A-DDD, 40B-DDD, and 42C-DDD.
Special material inside the cups of this bra helps keep moisture away from your body and prevents you from getting overheated when you have a hot flash. The cups are contoured (molded into a specific shape), so there's no show through and it's smooth under clothing. It's a racerback and the straps adjust in front, so you don't have to twist and turn to put it on.
It's a low cut wide plunge style, so if you are close-set, this may not be the best choice for you (you may spill over into the middle).
Comes in gray, toasted almond, and white in US sizes 34-40 A-C. (average cup)
Try a Sports Bra for Moisture Wicking
Or, get a sports bra. Since they're are designed to remove moisture, they will keep you cooler. And many don't have a wire to start with. I've listed both underwire and wire free styles below. If you do get the sports bra, sister size to a larger band, smaller cup for a better fit.
Another sports bra that really doesn't look like one. You can wear it as an everyday bra (even if you don't plan to exercise). Put it on to go to work and then wear it after (or on a weekend) for power walking, yoga or low impact sports.
It's not specifically for menopause, but it's made from breathable, moisture wicking fabric that pulls wetness away from your skin, so you feel cool. The center is wide, so it's better if you are wide set. There's only a thin underband and the center is arched, which also makes it a good choice if you have a larger stomach.
The straps are pulled in (close set in the back) so there's less chance of slippage.
Comes in white, champagne shimmer, several shades of pink, heather gray, turquoise, fuchsia, lavender, mint, and black in US sizes 32-42 B through DDD. (average cup/full figure)
Another sports bra that can do double duty as a comfortable menopause or perimenopause bra. And, it looks like a regular bra. The sheer panels add a touch of elegance, while the super breathable fabric makes it practical and easy to wear. Wear it to work, for a night out, or off to the gym for a light workout.
There are no seams to show through your clothes and no bulky padding either. Plus, the racerback won't show under tank tops. This style is best if you are wide-set, shallow, or tend to point in opposite directions. It's also bandless, which is better if you have a larger stomach, or if you are bloated.
Get this one in your sister size for better fit (band size up, cup size down).
Available in white, toast, and bra sizes 32D-38 B-DD (full bust)
Super easy to wear and great for everyday wear or even sleeping. It's a low impact sports bra, with no underwire to dig into tender skin. It's nearly entirely made of cotton too (96%), so it will be cool and comfortable in hot weather or if you get hot flashes from menopause.
There's no seams to show through your clothes, either. It has a high front, so it's best under jewel neck or turtleneck tops. There's no metal or clasps, just pull it over your head. Another thing, it comes in larger band sizes up to 56 and cup sizes up to G!
Comes in black, blue tie dye, gray, white, blue print, plum, purple, and burgundy floral in US sizes 36B/C/D through 56 DD/F/G. Note that the size listings are doubled on Amazon for some reason. (full figure, large band/small cup).
Cute cutouts in front, and an inset strappy design in back gives this bra a fashionable look and feel. The straps adjust so you can get just the right length, and the cups are molded (shaped) so no uni-boob.
Most of all, it has both mesh panels (to let the air out) and special moisture wicking technology to keep you dry. It's a medium impact bra, so there's more support if you're feeling especially sore. Since there's a regular clasp, it's easy to remove at the end of the day.
Comes in a boatload of colors with contrasting trim, including reds, pinks, blacks, purple, mint, stars, stripes, or just plain black. Sizes XS-XL (roughly US 32A through 38D) (average cup).
This bra breathes like cotton and won't leave you feeling hot and sweaty. There are no underwires to pinch or poke, and the underband gives soft, gentle support under your breasts.
It has built-in slings (little extra bits of fabric) on the sides of the cups to help push you forward and give better definition (no uniboob). The straps are soft and wide for better comfort; they're also inset in back so they won't slip.
US sizes 36B-D, 38B-DDD, 40-42 B-DDD, 44C-DDD, and 46DD in ivory, beige, white, black, and pale lilac. (full figure)
Want a Comfortable Bra for Menopause? Go for a Bralette
Bralettes have become a big fashion trend, but in this case they are also practical. They're lighter, less structured, and have no wires by design. Physics dictates that they are mostly made for smaller busts, but there are a few designed for larger sizes and fuller figures. These are especially good for leisure wear, when you want some support but not a full-blown bra.
Also since there is no wire, this is a better choice for smaller busts (or just lounging at home if you are larger).
Comes in blues, reds, black, green, white, black, stripes, plus logo prints in sizes XS-L (average cup).
Fashioned from super-soft pima cotton, cotton, and a touch of elastic. It's 93% cotton! There's no decoration, just a tiny lace trim along the edges of the cups.
No wires or slings or bulky padding either, just a light lining for modesty and a touch more support. This is a great lounging bra on the larger side and just perfect for smaller busts that don't need a lot of lift or shaping.
Available in white, mocha, black, tan, and gray in sizes XS/S, S/M, M/L, and L/XL or 30-38 A, B, and C.
A bit of a cross between a bralette and a sports bra, with enough support for light exercise, without any wires. There's some padding, but you can take that out if you prefer. It will also keep you smooth because the sides and back are high, to help combat lumps and bulges.
Wear it around the house, for power walking, or under everyday clothes; it's multifunctional. The material is cooling so it will keep you comfortable when your temperature changes.
Black, sand, rose, and red in sizes 32-40 (roughly 32-40A-D) (average cup). Some sizes in more colors.
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