Choosing the Right Underwear for Vaginal Health
Your underwear is more than just a piece of clothing – it's a crucial factor in maintaining your vaginal health. Therefore, it's important to choose the right type of underwear to protect your intimate area. If you're unsure about what constitutes a "good" pair of underwear, read on. We'll explain the key factors to consider.
Fabric
The first thing you need to think about is the type of fabric you choose. Your vagina needs to breathe, and proper air flow is vital to keep it healthy. Breathable fabrics prevent your vagina from becoming smothered by sweat and moisture, which can cause discomfort and even infection.
When it comes to fabrics, natural is best, especially cotton. Cotton underwear is tried and tested and ensures a cool and healthy vagina.
Cleanliness
It goes without saying that no one likes to wear dirty underwear. You should be changing your underwear at least once a day to keep it fresh. Since cotton underwear absorbs the natural moisture of your body, it can get dirty quickly. Wearing dirty, moist fabric can lead to yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis (BV).
When washing your underwear, use gentle, scent-free, hypoallergenic soap, and avoid fabric softeners. Harsh chemicals, dyes, and fragrances can irritate the delicate skin of your vulva. Wash everything on a delicate cycle with cool water and tumble dry on low heat, regardless of the material.
Age
The age of your underwear is also a critical factor. Replace your underwear every year for hygiene reasons. Frequent washing can wear out the material, and even clean underwear can harbor bacteria. Research shows that most frequently-worn (and washed) underwear contains more than 10,000 bacteria. Even if you clean your washing machine regularly, bacteria can still build up.
While it may seem expensive to replace your entire underwear drawer every year, it's worth it if you experience frequent vaginal infections.
Style
Style may be important to your outfit, but it's not a major factor in vaginal health. A common myth is that thongs can cause problems, but studies show that they do not negatively impact vaginal microfauna or increase the risk of infection. So, if you prefer thongs or "nothing there" feeling, go for it!
The style of your underwear can affect how you feel about yourself. A poll shows that women feel more confident and beautiful when they wear "sexy" or "special" underwear. Ultimately, you should always wear what feels comfortable and natural.
Commando
The question of whether to go commando (without underwear) is a matter of personal preference. Going commando allows your vagina to breathe, which is essential for vaginal health. It's especially helpful during physical activities or sleeping.
The argument for working out commando is that you can wash away sweat and dirt from your vagina more easily. After working out, it's crucial to shower and change clothes as soon as possible to avoid trapping moisture against your skin.
Sleeping commando is also common and can be beneficial for vaginal health. You can wear loose cotton pajama pants instead of underwear. However, it's important to wash your clothes and bedding more frequently if you opt to go commando.
In summary
To sum it up, the best underwear for vaginal health is made of cotton, less than a year old, clean, and most importantly, comfortable for you. Consider the fabric, cleanliness, age, and style of your underwear to keep your intimate area healthy. And, if you feel comfortable, going commando is an option that can help keep your vagina healthy too.
