If you don’t care about your underwear choices, be careful. Gynecologists and urologists say that some documents and some surgeries can put your social circle at risk. What you need to know before making your next purchase.
Do you not care about your underwear choices, as long as they are coordinated or comfortable?
That’s a mistake. Experts say we don’t listen enough when it comes to choosing those skinny jeans, and it’s paying off. HuffPost US’s two gynecologists and a urologist share their views on medical treatment of underwear for men and women. Here’s their advice.
Choose cotton or natural materials
This information is already known. Generally speaking, the best fabrics for underwear are natural fabrics like cotton. “We know that cotton bras are more breathable than polyester bras,” says gynecologist Dr. Andrea Braden. “Good breathability is essential for genital health.” But other natural materials like hemp, bamboo, and linen can also be used. But that’s not always enough, says urologist Scott D. Miller, MD. “During increased sweating, cotton can trap excess moisture, which can lead to bacteria and fungi,” Miller added. The best combination in this case is underwear made of cotton and synthetic fibers.
On the other hand, “non-breathable fabrics,” meaning synthetic materials like nylon and satin, are not recommended. But Dr. Miller says that pure polyester is the worst fabric for underwear. “Despite being one of the lightest materials, it is not waterproof or breathable.”
Choose the right fit for you
When it comes to underwear, the good news is that there is no real choice. Instead, you should think about what works best for you and what allows your body to breathe.
“The key is to choose a style that’s comfortable and doesn’t bother your face,” says Dr. Suzy Lipinski, a pediatrician and gynecologist. — that means different underwear for different body types.
The first question you should ask yourself is how well your bra fits, whether it fits your movements, whether it’s too tight or rubbing, which can happen even with two pieces of the same cut but different styles.
Urologist Dr. Fenwa Milhouse recommends wearing underwear properly. “Tight underwear can reduce airflow and increase localized moisture, which can lead to skin irritation and skin or fungal infections.”
Some underwear may be better for pregnancy than others. According to a 2025 Harvard University study, men who frequently wear shorts have 25 percent more sperm than men who don’t, due to the support and freedom of movement.
Thongs: Good or bad for your health?
If you’re prone to infections, you may want to avoid wearing thongs, even cotton thongs, because they tend to be tighter as you go. “That doesn’t mean you can’t wear them, but you may want to limit your use or save them for special occasions,” Dr. Miller said, because they can cause vaginosis. “This is because when the fabric is close to the anus, bacteria can be carried forward from the anus.”
Change your underwear every day
The recommended policy among doctors interviewed is to change your underwear at least once a day to keep it clean and dry and to reduce the risk of infection.
Illness is normal. We all have bacteria in our vaginas or anuses,” Dr. Braden said. – but you don’t want bacteria growing on your clothes or underwear.
That’s why it’s important to change your underwear as often as possible. Some people who exercise regularly or sweat a lot may consider changing their underwear several times a day. Let yourself go at night!
While some doctors believe that there is no harm in sleeping in underwear if worn correctly, others believe that there are benefits to sleeping without underwear. “I usually recommend sleeping without underwear,” says the urologist, adding that this allows your private parts to breathe, reduces moisture and reduces skin irritation.
“If you have itching problems, more airflow is generally better,” says Dr. Braden. “Yes, you can sleep in underwear, but make sure it breathes and remember to change it every day.”