Conditions and Management

Essential Takeaways:

• Research confirms that underwire bras are not linked to breast cancer or other serious breast conditions.
• The comfort and fit of your bra have a greater effect on your well-being than whether it contains an underwire.
• Normal bra wear, including underwire styles, does not block lymphatic drainage or trap toxins in breast tissue.
• Factors like genetics, aging, and pregnancy influence breast shape more than the type of bra you wear.
• Consistent screenings, self-checks, and wearing supportive, comfortable bras are the best ways to care for your breast health.

You probably wear a bra most days without thinking twice. However, stories in the media that claim that underwires could be “bad for your breasts” may raise concerns. Maybe you’ve heard that they block lymph flow, cause chronic pain, or even increase the risk of breast cancer. It’s understandable to wonder if there’s any truth behind these rumors. When it comes to your breast health, it’s natural to want to take all precautions.

So, do underwire bras really affect your breast health? Find out what the research actually says and what matters most for your comfort and long-term well-being.

The Myth: Underwire Bras and Breast Cancer

One of the most common concerns about underwire bras is the effect of the wire against the torso. The wire has been thought to compress lymph nodes, trapping “toxins” and raising the risk of breast cancer. However, there is little scientific evidence to support these claims.

A landmark study from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center found no link between bra-wearing habits, including the use of underwire bras, and breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women. Researchers examined factors such as hours of daily wear, age at first bra use, and bra type and found no association.

Similarly, Harvard Health Publishing reviewed the data. It concluded that no link was seen between the risk of either invasive ductal carcinoma or lobular carcinoma with regard to bra wearing, including use of an underwire.

The Real Issue: Comfort, Fit, and Support

Even though underwires are not believed to be dangerous, that doesn’t mean every bra is good for you. The real impact of a bra on your body has more to do with fit than with design.

If your bra leaves red marks, digs into your skin, or feels uncomfortable by midday, that’s a sign that something is off. Poorly fitted bras can cause shoulder and neck pain, possible posture issues, and chronic skin irritation. These issues do not just affect women who wear underwire bras but can be worse if the wire presses too tightly against the ribs or breast tissue.

In fact, many women regularly wear the wrong bra size and don’t know it. According to the Chiropractic & Osteopathy journal, around 80% of women are wearing bras that don’t fit correctly. A properly fitted bra should support you without pinching, digging, or slipping.

If you’ve had breast surgery, radiation, or lymph node removal, your healthcare provider might recommend avoiding underwire bras for a while to allow healing. That’s less about the wire itself and more about preventing friction on sensitive tissue.

What About Lymph Flow and Sagging?

You may have heard claims that wearing underwire bras, or any bras, can block lymphatic drainage or make breasts sag faster. Current research does not support these ideas either.

Lymphatic drainage happens through deep channels in the body, not the surface areas where a bra sits. There’s no evidence that typical bra pressure, even from underwires, restricts that flow in healthy women.

As for sagging, it’s influenced by genetics, age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and gravity, not by whether you wear a bra. A French study from the University of Besancon even suggested that consistent bra use doesn’t prevent sagging and might slightly affect natural ligament tone, although more research is needed.

What You Can Do for Better Breast Health

You don’t need to toss all your underwire bras. Instead, focus on these healthy habits that truly support your breast well-being:

1. Get fitted regularly. Your body changes over time due to weight shifts, hormones, and aging, all of which can affect breast size and shape. A professional fitting every year or two helps keep your bras supportive and comfortable.
2. Listen to your body. If your bra feels too tight, causes soreness, or leaves indentations, it’s time to adjust your size or try a different style.
3. Take breaks when you want to. There’s no medical need to wear a bra all day, every day. If you’re at home and comfortable without one, that’s perfectly fine.
4. Keep up with screenings. Mammograms, self-awareness, and regular checkups do far more for early detection than any bra choice ever could.
5. Choose what makes you feel confident. Whether that’s an underwire bra, a soft bralette, or going wire-free entirely, your comfort and confidence are part of good breast health.

Received Specialized Care at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

There’s no credible scientific evidence that underwire bras harm your breast health or increase cancer risk. What matters most is wearing bras that fit well, support you comfortably, and make you feel good in your own body.

If you’re experiencing discomfort, noticing changes, or just want professional guidance on maintaining breast health, our women’s health specialists are here for you. Schedule a visit today to review your breast health and get personalized comfort recommendations.

Menopause is a significant life transition, bringing with it physical and emotional adjustments. While hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood shifts are often at the forefront of menopause-related concerns, don’t overlook long-term health risks. Many women develop chronic conditions after menopause.

For example, the National Osteoporosis Foundation found that women can lose up to 20% of their bone density in five to seven years of menopause’s onset. The good news is that with proactive care, these risks can be managed. By working with doctors who specialize in menopause, you can take steps to protect your health despite whatever conditions come your way.

Why Menopause Changes Health Risks

Estrogen does more than regulate your cycle. It also protects your bones, heart, and metabolism. When estrogen levels decline after menopause, those protective effects lessen. This shift explains why conditions such as osteoporosis, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes become more common during this stage of life.

It’s important to bear in mind that these changes are not a reflection of anything you’ve done wrong, but rather part of your body’s natural transition. The positive side is that knowing about these risks allows you to take charge early. With the proper screenings, lifestyle choices, and medical support, you can continue to safeguard your health and enjoy this new chapter with confidence.

Chronic Conditions to Watch Closely

After menopause, it’s wise to keep a closer eye on certain health conditions. When you better understand these conditions, you can take steps that protect your long-term well-being.

1. Bone Health & Osteoporosis

Estrogen helps maintain strong bones, and when levels drop, bone density naturally decreases. This makes osteoporosis more common after menopause, leading to a higher likelihood of fractures.

Regular weight-bearing exercise, along with adequate dietary calcium and vitamin D, can make a significant difference in keeping bones strong. Monitoring for changes in bone health through bone density scans may be appropriate in some women.

2. Heart Disease

The leading cause of death for women after menopause is heart disease. Estrogen previously offered some cardiovascular protection, but without it, blood pressure, cholesterol, and artery health require closer monitoring. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and getting routine heart check-ups are essential.

3. Type 2 Diabetes and Weight Gain

Hormonal changes and a slower metabolism can result in weight gain, most commonly in the abdominal area, raising the risk of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Balanced nutrition, portion awareness, and regular movement help reduce that risk.

4. Cognitive Changes & Memory Health

Many women notice memory lapses or brain fog during menopause. While occasional forgetfulness is normal, estrogen decline has been linked to changes in brain health. Prioritizing good sleep, staying physically active, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities can all support cognitive function.

Proactive Steps to Stay Ahead

The best way to protect your health after menopause is by taking consistent, proactive steps. Small choices made daily can have a powerful impact on preventing many types of chronic conditions.

• Regular Screenings: Routine exams give you and your healthcare provider a clearer picture of your health. Mammograms, cholesterol and blood sugar checks, pelvic exams, and bone density scans help catch potential issues early, when they’re most manageable.
• Lifestyle Habits: Prioritizing a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, fiber, and whole grains supports heart and bone health. Regular movement, whether walking, swimming, or strength training, keeps your muscles strong and metabolism steady. Quality sleep and mindful stress management are equally important.
• Preventive Care & Medications: In some cases, your provider may recommend menopausal hormone therapy, supplements such as calcium or vitamin D, or other medications specific to your needs. These options can provide extra support where lifestyle changes alone are not always enough.
• Build a Support System: Managing this stage of life is easier with guidance and encouragement. Surround yourself with supportive family, friends, and trusted physicians who understand your needs.

Emotional and Mental Well-Being

Menopause affects more than just your physical health. It can also bring changes in mood, confidence, and even identity. Feelings of anxiety, irritability, or sadness are not uncommon, and they require just as much recognition as physical symptoms.

Open conversations with your healthcare provider can help you find strategies or treatments that restore balance. With the proper care and coping tools, this stage can be one of growth, resilience, and renewed self-discovery.

Call Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness

Menopause marks a new chapter, not the end of health and vitality. By staying proactive with screenings, lifestyle habits, and supportive care, you can protect your well-being for years.

When you’re ready to take the next step, the knowledgeable team at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness offers routine care, specialized women’s services, and assistance with the management of health concerns and chronic conditions.

Contact our office today at (919) 525-3959 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

For many women, the thought of menopause can bring feelings of uncertainty or even worry. It’s a natural transition that every woman experiences, yet the timing and symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Menopause is not a single event but rather a series of stages, starting with perimenopause, which typically begins in a woman’s mid-40s.

Knowing what each stage entails can help you feel more prepared and supported as you move from perimenopause into menopause, and ultimately postmenopause. Learn what to expect and why it may be helpful to reach out to a menopause specialist for guidance.

The Stages of Menopause

Menopause is a three-part process that unfolds over several years. All women experience menopause differently, with some noticing subtle changes and others having symptoms that affect their daily life.

The process generally begins with perimenopause, as hormone levels start to fluctuate and cycles become irregular. It continues with menopause, the official milestone marked by 12 months without a period. Finally, women enter postmenopause, a stage that lasts for the rest of their lives and brings its own health considerations.

Recognizing where you are in this transition is the first step toward better wellness.

Perimenopause: The Transitional Years

Perimenopause is the stage that signals the beginning of menopause, often starting in the 40s but sometimes occurring earlier. During this stage, the ovaries produce less progesterone and estrogen, resulting in hormone fluctuations that affect both the body and mind.

Many women notice changes, such as irregular menstrual cycles, night sweats, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings, or vaginal dryness. Although these are all normal transition symptoms, they can sometimes feel overwhelming or disruptive.

Perimenopause is also a time when long-term health becomes more important, as declining estrogen can impact bone strength and cardiovascular health. Tracking your cycles and noting symptoms can help manage changes. If you experience very heavy bleeding, severe mood shifts, or sleep loss that affects daily life, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider.

Menopause: The Official Milestone

Menopause is officially reached when a woman has surpassed 12 months with no menstrual cycle, marking the end of natural fertility. This milestone occurs at approximately 51 years of age.

During menopause, the ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce less estrogen, which can lead to both emotional and physical changes. Common symptoms include hot flashes, brain fog, changes in hair or skin, weight fluctuations, and a decrease in libido. Some women notice shifts in mood or energy levels, while others may experience few symptoms at all.

As every experience is different, supportive care is essential. Balanced nutrition, exercise, stress management, and other lifestyle strategies are effective. Non-hormonal options and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered for those with more severe symptoms under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Postmenopause: Life Following Menopause

The postmenopause stage is after menopause, lasting for the rest of a woman’s life. By this stage, menstrual periods have permanently ended, and while hormone fluctuations settle, the body continues to adjust to lower estrogen levels. Many symptoms, such as hot flashes, may gradually ease, but others, such as vagina dryness, urinary changes, or bone thinning, can persist or develop.

Long-term health considerations become especially important as women experience a higher risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and urogenital concerns. With the right approach, most women can manage these conditions and continue living fulfilling lives. Regular screenings, preventive care, and healthy lifestyle choices are essential in maintaining well-being.

Most importantly, ongoing conversations with healthcare providers can address new symptoms or risks early on, supporting long-term health and quality of life.

Maintaining Wellness During Menopause

Menopause is a natural life stage, not an illness, and it deserves to be approached with compassion rather than fear. While symptoms can sometimes be disruptive, personalized care can significantly improve how the transition is experienced.

Managing symptoms, such as hot flashes or sleep disturbances, while also supporting mental well-being and overall long-term health, highlights how each woman’s menopause is different. Maintaining bone density and cardiovascular health, as well as taking other preventative measures, are important during this stage.

With personalized guidance and consistent support, women can confidently experience menopause, embrace midlife fully, and enjoy good health for years to come.

Schedule an Appointment

Menopause is a transitional stage in every woman’s life, and with the proper care, it can be managed confidently and comfortably. Embracing each stage and learning how your body responds can help you maintain balance and overall well-being.

If you’re seeking guidance or personalized strategies for managing symptoms and maintaining long-term health, contact our Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness team to partner with a trusted menopause specialist.

When you come in for breast cancer screening, your mammogram (or breast imaging study) generates more than just pictures. It produces a report with a Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) score. It’s a classification system developed by the American College of Radiology to standardize how radiologists describe breast imaging findings and help determine future care.

It’s natural to feel worried or anxious when you see unfamiliar terms in your report. Know that your provider will walk you through what a BI-RADS score means, how the categories differ, and how you and your care team can use these results to determine the best course of action.

How the BI-RADS System Works

• The BI-RADS system assigns a number from 0 to 6 as well as a breast density code to indicate how confident the radiologist is that a finding is benign or suspicious.
• BI-RADS 0: Incomplete – more imaging or comparison films are needed
• BI-RADS 1: Negative – everything looks normal
• BI-RADS 2: Benign finding – something benign, such as a cyst or calcification
• BI-RADS 3: Probably benign- very low likelihood of cancer (typically < 2%)
• BI-RADS 4: Suspicious – biopsy often suggested

o This category is subdivided (4A, 4B, 4C) to reflect increasing levels of concern:
• 4A: Low suspicion (2-9%)
• 4B: Moderate suspicion (10-49%)
• 4C: High suspicion (50-94%)

• BI-RADS 5: Highly suggestive of malignancy (>95%)
• BI-RADS 6: Known biopsy-proven cancer (if the imaging is done after diagnosis)

When multiple findings appear in one study, the final BI-RADS category reported is the one that reflects the highest level of concern.

What Your BI-RADS Report Might Say About You

BI-RADS 0 – More Imaging Needed

If your report says “0,” it doesn’t mean there’s an emergency. It means the imaging was inconclusive, sometimes due to breast density, overlapping tissue, or technical factors that made interpretation difficult.

One study found that over half (55.9%) of screening mammograms in a single center were initially classified as BI-RADS 0, triggering follow-up imaging. In a case such as this, additional views, ultrasound, or other diagnostic imaging is recommended.

BI-RADS 1 or 2 – Normal or Benign

These are reassuring classifications. BI-RADS 1 means no suspicious findings; BI-RADS 2 means there is a benign (noncancerous) feature such as a stable cyst or benign calcification.

In many mammography series, about 57% of reports are BI-RADS 1, and 20-21% are BI-RADS 2. These categories typically call for routine screenings at intervals recommended by your health provider.

BI-RADS 3 – Probably Benign, But Watch Closely

When a finding is likely benign (less than 2% chance of malignancy), a BI-RADS 3 may be assigned. Instead of a biopsy right away, the recommendation is often short-term follow-up imaging (for example, every 6 months for 1–2 years). If there’s no change, the rating can be downgraded.

However, the cancer rate for BI-RADS 3 findings can rise slightly with age. One study found that in a group of over 43,000 women, the malignancy rate crossed 2% for ages above 59.7 years in some settings.

BI-RADS 4 – Suspicious (Biopsy Likely Advised)

When imaging raises concern, but doesn’t definitively point to cancer, BI-RADS 4 is used. Because the range is wide (2% to 95% likelihood), it’s further broken down into 4A, 4B, and 4C. A biopsy is often recommended so a tissue diagnosis can be made.

BI-RADS 5 or 6 – Strong Findings

BI-RADS 5 means the imaging is highly suggestive of cancer (over 95% probability).
BI-RADS 6 is used when cancer has already been confirmed by biopsy, and the imaging is matched to that known diagnosis.

What You Should Do After Getting a BI-RADS Report

1. Talk with your provider. We will walk through your imaging result, your personal risk factors, and what fits best for you (whether more imaging, a biopsy, or simply continued screening).
2. Stay on schedule. If the report calls for follow-up imaging (for BI-RADS 0 or 3), showing up for these appointments as scheduled prevents delays.
3. Ask questions. If you’re still not clear about the results of your report, please contact your provider to ask questions or discuss your concerns.

Get the Support You Deserve

Your BI-RADS score is a tool, a standardized way for radiologists and your care team to speak the same language, guide decisions, and track changes over time.

If you’ve recently had a mammogram and received a BI-RADS score that’s confusing or worrying, please reach out to our team at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness. We’d be happy to sit down with you, explain what your report means personally, and support whatever next steps make sense for your health.

Menopause is a natural stage of life, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Hot flashes, restless nights, mood changes, and other symptoms can often feel overwhelming. The good news is that minor, intentional lifestyle adjustments can make a real difference in how you feel each day. These adjustments include nourishing your body with the right foods, staying active, and managing stress.

Working with a trusted menopause specialist who offers guidance, compassion, and practical solutions can also help you move through this phase with greater confidence and vitality.

Menopause and Its Symptoms

The end of menstrual cycles is known as menopause, while the gradual transition that comes before it is perimenopause. During this time, progesterone and estrogen levels start to decline, triggering various changes in the body. Common symptoms include weight fluctuations, hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness.

Every woman’s experience is different, with some having mild symptoms and others having more disruptive ones. While menopause is inevitable, adopting healthy lifestyle strategies can often help reduce the intensity of symptoms and support overall well-being throughout this important life stage.

Nutrition for Symptom Relief

A balanced diet during menopause can help stabilize energy, boost mood, and protect bone health. Focus on nutrient-rich foods such as calcium-packed dairy or leafy greens, lean proteins, and healthy fats from sources such as olive oil or avocado. Incorporating phytoestrogens from soy, flaxseeds, and legumes may also help ease symptoms.

Limit excess caffeine, alcohol, and sugary processed snacks, which can trigger hot flashes or disrupt sleep. Staying well-hydrated is equally important, as drinking enough daily water can reduce hot flashes, improve digestion, and support your overall well-being.

Movement and Exercise

Regular movement can lift your mood, protect bone density, support heart health, and help with weight management during menopause. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking or light strength training, can strengthen bones, while low-impact cardio, such as swimming or cycling, boosts cardiovascular health and energy.

Yoga or stretching can help improve flexibility and provide stress relief. It’s best to start at a comfortable pace and gradually increase intensity over time, making physical activity a sustainable and enjoyable part of your daily routine.

Sleep Support Strategies

Quality sleep is essential for maintaining mood, energy, and hormone balance during menopause. To promote better rest, create a consistent bedtime routine, keep your sleeping environment cool, and limit screen time before bed.

To signal your body to wind down, practice gentle relaxation rituals, such as sipping herbal tea, practicing deep breathing, or doing light stretches. If hot flashes or night sweats disrupt your sleep, consider moisture-wicking bedding and wearing layered pajamas so that you can easily adjust for comfort throughout the night.

Managing Stress and Emotional Well-Being

Stress can intensify menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disruptions, making emotional well-being an integral part of symptom management. Deep breathing, mindfulness, meditation, and journaling can help calm the nervous system and improve resilience.

Connecting with family, friends, or women’s support groups can encourage and nurture a sense of community. Also, seeking guidance from a counselor or therapist is a valid, healthy choice that can offer valuable tools for transitioning through this stage of life with greater confidence and balance.

Other Lifestyle Tips

Staying socially active can lift your mood, sharpen cognitive health, and provide a sense of connection during menopause. Limiting or quitting smoking supports stronger bones and better heart health. Some women also find relief through gentle complementary approaches, such as acupuncture or massage, which can help reduce stress or ease specific symptoms.

Regular health check-ups are essential for monitoring bone density, cardiovascular health, and hormone levels. They can also help you and your healthcare provider address any changes early to keep you feeling your best.

When to Seek Professional Support

While many women find relief through lifestyle changes, there are times when symptoms become severe or significantly impact daily life, such as intense mood swings, persistent sleep problems, or unbearable hot flashes. If this sounds familiar, consider seeking professional support.

Medical treatments, including hormone therapy and other options, can often be safely combined with healthy habits for the most effective relief. A menopause specialist can provide compassionate, personalized care that matches your needs, helping you find the right balance and support to manage menopause comfortably.

Schedule a Menopause Specialist Appointment Today

Menopause is a natural transition, but that doesn’t mean you must experience its challenges alone. Small lifestyle changes can bring significant improvements in comfort and well-being. Bear in mind, you deserve support and personalized care during this stage of life.

If you are ready to find ways to ease your symptoms and feel your best, reach out to the menopause specialists at Raleigh Gynecology & Wellness today to schedule an appointment.