1. 1. Not wearing cotton underwear
You might think that underwear material doesn’t matter, but it does. Different materials allow different variations of breath-ability, and the degree to which the vaginal area becomes moist and promotes growth of bacteria. The most advisable underwear material to wear is cotton. It’s highly breathable, which inhibits the growth of bacteria.
The least advisable underwear material to wear is silk and synthetics as they allow for little ventilation in the vaginal area. Instead, they trap heat and moisture, which spells unwanted bacteria and infections. If you must wear underwear made from synthetic fabrics, choose a pair with a cotton-lined crotch, and limit the silky panties to special occasions when you don’t have to wear them for too long.
2. 2. Wearing underwear to bed
Going to bed without underwear allows the vaginal area to breath overnight, and it also gives it time to self-clean. As people, we tend to sweat a lot while sleeping, which causes moisture thus making women prone to vaginal issues such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
Going commando can make all the difference for those who deal with regular yeast infections, but if you really don’t like the feeling of being naked, ABC News recommends you wear loose-fitting pyjama bottoms. The news organisation adds that if you’re going without underwear but are wearing another type of bottom, they need to be washed frequently as well.
READ MORE: What NOT to do when you have thrush
3. 3. Wearing thongs
I do not recommended thongs for prolonged usage as they promote the transfer of bacteria from the anus to the vagina. Rather use thongs during those special occasions, when the thongs usually do not stay on long enough to cause any issues. Also, opt for cotton thongs if obtainable.
If you’re not willing to part with the skimpy panties anytime soon, take them off at night to give your body a breather.
4. 4. Not wearing underwear during the day
It’s not recommended to go commando during the day, as wearing clothes directly over the vaginal area can cause friction and irritation, leading to chaffing and infections. Also, the natural moisture produced by the vagina has nowhere to go when not wearing underwear. It then becomes hot and sweaty down there, which, in itself, can irritate the skin.
5. 5. Wearing the wrong size/fit
Wearing underwear that is too tight has health consequences – it promotes bacterial growth and infections, as well as chaffing of the surrounding skin, leading to irritation and infection.
