If you wear shapewear, you need to know this…

Shapewear, or compression underwear, is great way to smooth out out lumps and bumps discreetly…or so we thought. If you use shapewear regularly underneath your clothing, there could be dangerous health side effects if you are not careful.

Because of the constriction to nerves and blood vessels, doctors are warning that shapewear could lead to damage and swelling in the area you would prefer to cover up.

In a recent report, three doctors weighed in on side effects of shapewear aka Spanx. They agreed that if too tight, it could be damaging unsuspecting women (and men)’s organs. What happens when shapewear is worn too often or is toot tight is it can compress the stomach, intestine and colon, exacerbating acid reflux and heartburn, and could even worsen incontinence issues.

So how does it do this and what can be done to stop health issues if you still want to wear the compression underwear?

Doctors warn that prolonged use of these garments might lead to a condition called meralgia paresthetica, which is pressure on the nerves that run in front of your hips. Orly Avitzur, a neurologist, told L.A. Times, “We all want a shortcut that will be more effortless…But that doesn’t help us in terms of all the advantages of exercise and a really nutritious diet”.

Dr. Karen Erickson, a chiropractor, concurs,”It’s like putting these giant rubber bands around your upper thighs and tightening them when you sit”, she told The Latin Post.

Other issues that can arise are skin irritations, yeast infections, chafe and fungal infections, not to mention irritable bowel syndrome.

Instead of preventing varicose veins and blood clots, tight shapewear can cause it if not used correctly – daily wear is not advised, however wearing it on special occasions or at night time is OK.

Most doctors agree that healthy diet and exercise can help you to iron out any lumps and bumps but if that doesn’t work, you don’t need to throw out your Spanx straight away – you just need to make sure they fit. A good fit means that the spandex is not cutting into anywhere and you don’t struggle to put the piece on.

Tell us below: Do you wear shapewear often? Have you noticed any issues from wearing the compression underwear?