She married on 19 November 1744 in Eisenach to John Frederick, Prince of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt (1721-1767).

The princess, who was described as particularly benevolent, acquired the Handwerkerhof in Rudolstadt in 1756 and founded the Bernardina Abbey for noblewomen in this building.

To this end, Bernhardine purchased a neighbouring building and incorporated it into the abbey.

Paintings of Berhardina and her husband by Johann Ernst Heinsius are on display in the green room of Heidecksburg Castle.

From her marriage Bernhardina Christiana Sophia had the following children: This article about a German duchess is a stub.