Maybe your child has come out to you as trans or non-binary, or maybe they've simply shared that they wish to wear a chest binder. If you're a parent or guardian who is unfamiliar with what a chest binder is or what to do next, you're in the right place.
A chest binder is a specially-designed compression garment designed to flatten the chest/breast tissue to create a more masculine or gender neutral appearance. Commercial chest binders are designed for compression and safety, and are the safest method as compared to wearing multiple sports bras, using tape or bandages, etc.
While anyone of any gender may choose to bind their chest, for many trans and non-binary individuals, it is a vital tool in alleviating gender dysphoria: the feeling of distress that may occur for people whose internal sense of gender is different from the sex they were assigned at birth. In short, wearing one helps many trans youth and adults feel more at ease, confident, and safer when in public.
And for young people who might be questioning their gender identity or presentation, even if they don't ultimately identify as transgender, wearing a chest binder is also a way for them to explore and learn more about themselves.
A 2017 survey found striking mental health benefits as a result of binding: roughly 70% of individuals reported a positive mood after starting to bind, compared to only about 7% beforehand. This pairs with another finding of the same study in that 87% of individuals reported using binding as a method for achieving congruence between their gender identity and physical appearance.
At Point of Pride, we regularly hear from youth and adults about how wearing a chest binder is transformative for their mental health and their overall ability to show up more authentically and confidently, whether that's in the classroom, the workplace, or everyday life.
Wearing a binder is not without some risk, and binding improperly or for too long can lead to chest and back pain, rib bruising, shortness of breath, overheating, and skin irritation.
In order to ensure your child's safety, we always recommend paying close attention to:
If binding is ever painful or uncomfortable, or if there's difficulty breathing, stop right away. Always talk to your child's healthcare providers if you have questions regarding binding.
Finding the right chest binder is essential for comfort and effectiveness.
Some brands to consider as you research:
There may be local retailers or boutique shops that carry chest binders from these manufacturers and more. Deciding where to purchase a chest binder depends on your child's preferences, your level of access, and your level of comfort.
Pros: If your child is not comfortable trying on binders in a public setting, online may be the way to go. Additionally, online retailers often have a broader range of options in terms of sizes, styles, and colors, allowing your child to find a binder that suits their preferences more easily. You can also easily read reviews and comparison shop across different retailers to find the best deal.
Cons: When shopping online, you can't try on or feel the materials of a binder before your purchase, which can lead to issues with comfort or effectiveness. Depending on your location and the retailer, shipping times may be significant, and returns or exchanges may also take some time.
Pros: In-store staff can provide assistance with sizing, fitting, and guidance based on your child's preferences. You'll have confidence that the binder fits properly before making a purchase, often in a supportive and affirming environment.
Cons: In-store options are often limited in terms of sizes, styles, and colors. Most importantly, your ability to access a brick-and-mortar store that sells binders may be limited, depending on where you live.
Not everyone is able to afford or easily obtain a chest binder. Point of Pride operates one of the largest free chest binder donation programs of its kind, serving thousands of people in all 50+ states and around the world. The chest binder and all shipping expenses are 100% free for recipients, and we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Our only requirements would be that your child identify as trans and they/your family have financial need or other barriers that make it difficult to obtain a binder.
Some other donation programs include:
In addition, many GSAs, community organizations, and trans support groups have their own smaller, localized binder donation programs. We recommend reaching out to LGBTQ+ organizations in your area to see if one such program might be available near your family. If you live in the U.S., CenterLink's Community Center Directory is a great tool to start your search.
Trans and gender-diverse young people who are supported by their parents and guardians are 2x more likely to report life satisfaction, 5x more likely to report high self-esteem, and 4.5x more likely to describe their mental health as “Very Good” or “Excellent.”
Allowing your child to have a chest binder—and having open conversations about safer binding techniques, as well as other areas of their journey—is just one way you can approach them with love, compassion, and a willingness to learn. Thank you for being here!