Artwork by Greg Clarke
Have you ever pondered whether going commando is truly a must? According to Jennifer Lincoln, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist from Portland, Oregon, and the author of “Let’s Talk About Down There,” it’s entirely up to you. “There’s no medical requirement to wear underwear,” she asserts. “However, if your trousers are causing chafing, discomfort, pain, or skin irritation, it might be wise to consider slipping into something.”
Adam Taylor, PhD, a professor of anatomy at Lancaster University in the UK, offers additional arguments in favor of underwear: “They shield your outer garments from the natural, healthy discharge of the vagina.” Taylor further notes that jeans, which are often washed less often, can potentially transfer bacteria back to the vaginal area.
Should you choose to wear underwear, whether it’s a bikini, a thong, or any other style, ensure it features a cotton crotch. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research revealed that women who wore non-cotton underwear had a higher incidence of yeast infections compared to those who wore cotton. “Cotton is a more breathable fabric, which allows for greater airflow and reduces moisture buildup,” explains Alyssa Hamlin, MD, the study’s lead author and an ob-gyn from Kent, Washington. Materials like nylon and other synthetics can trap moisture, creating a damp, warm environment where candida (yeast fungi) thrive.
As for wearing underwear while sleeping—a topic that divides opinions—this too boils down to personal preference. Experts are generally fine with going sans undies at night, “since you’re less likely to move around and expose your vagina to irritants such as sweat, rubbing, or chafing,” Taylor remarks. “Moreover, without underwear, the tissues can breathe and be exposed to fresh air, which is beneficial. This decreases moisture and, consequently, helps prevent microbial growth, ensuring that the vagina’s pH stays optimal for its self-cleaning microflora.” In essence, bedtime might be the ideal moment to let things be as they are!
