This Month’s Blog post was written by Rem Martin (they/them), Charlotte Trans Health’s Spring 2025 post-baccalaureate intern.
Tucking: What It Is and How to Do It Safely.
Tucking involves positioning the genitals in a way that creates a flatter appearance. Some individuals tuck for gender expression, personal comfort, or to align their outward appearance with their gender identity.
Safe Tucking Practices
When done correctly, tucking should not cause significant pain or discomfort. Here are key guidelines for safe tucking:
- Use Proper Undergarments: Gaffs, tight-fitting underwear, or control shorts can provide support without excessive pressure( Guillory & Rafalski, 2023) .
- Avoid Excessive Compression: Prolonged or overly tight tucking may lead to skin irritation, restricted blood flow, or fertility issues(Kidd et al., 2024).
- Take Breaks: Extended tucking can increase the risk of discomfort or health issues. It’s recommended to remove the tuck when sleeping and to take breaks when possible (Callen-Lorde, n.d.).
- Stay Cool and Dry: Moisture buildup can lead to chafing or infections. Wearing breathable fabrics and practicing good hygiene is essential (Fenway Health, n.d.)
Potential Risks of Tucking
While generally safe when done properly, tucking can pose health risks if done incorrectly or for extended periods:
- Skin irritation and chafing
- Increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Circulation issues if using excessive compression
- Possible impact on fertility if done long-term without breaks (Erickson-Schroth, 2022).
By following safe tucking techniques, individuals can minimize risks while achieving the desired appearance.
Binding: Ensuring Safety and Comfort
Binding is the practice of flattening the chest using a binder, sports bra, or other compression garment. Many transgender men, nonbinary individuals, and others use binding to reduce chest dysphoria and feel more comfortable in their bodies.
Safe Binding Practices
To bind safely, it’s important to choose the right binder and use it properly:
- Use a Binder Made for Binding: Avoid DIY binders made from ace bandages or duct tape, as these materials can cause severe injury by restricting movement and blood flow(Peitzmeier et al., 2016).
- Wear the Correct Size: A binder should be snug but not painfully tight or restrictive. If breathing feels restricted, it’s too tight (Gender Confirmation Center, 2023).
- Limit Binding Time: Experts recommend binding for no more than 8 hours per day to reduce the risk of health complications (Pehlivanidis & Anderson,2024).
- Take Breaks and Stretch: Giving your body a rest day and performing gentle chest stretches can help prevent stiffness or muscle pain (Erickson-Schroth, 2021).
- Monitor for Warning Signs: If you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, skin sores, or rib discomfort, take a break from binding and consult a medical professional (Anchor Health, n.d.).
Health Risks of Improper Binding
Binding too tightly or for prolonged periods can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Difficulty breathing and decreased lung capacity
- Back and shoulder pain
- Skin irritation and rashes
- Rib bruising or deformation in extreme cases (Peters, Gross, & Bostick, 2024).
Prioritizing safe binding methods ensures both comfort and long-term health.
Tucking and binding are deeply personal practices that help individuals align their physical appearance with their gender identity. However, safety should always come first. By following best practices, using proper materials, and listening to your body, you can tuck and bind in a way that supports both your well-being and gender expression.
Resources & Citations:
Free and low-cost binders & tucking underwear:
- Point of Pride– Free Chest Binders
- Point of Pride– Free Femme Shapeware
- TomScout– The Freedom Binder
- Gender Bands– Binder Giveaways
- QueerTrans Project
- Trans Essentials