Using underwear is a daily routine for everyone, but have you ever considered whether you're using the right kind? The choice of underwear matters, as using the wrong type can lead to infections. So, how do you make the right choice? Let's explore it together in this Fitie article!
Opt for Cotton Material
Cotton is the ideal choice for underwear, particularly when it comes to the vulva, a sensitive and delicate area. Cotton is composed of natural cotton fibers, making panties breathable, able to absorb moisture, and effective at preventing fungal infections. Underwear made from materials like nylon, spandex, polyester, or lace can create a favorable environment for fungal growth, irritate the skin, and lack breathability.
Change Daily, If Not More
You may already be aware that you should change your underwear daily or, even better, more than once a day to keep your vaginal area from becoming excessively damp. In fact, you can't wear the same pair for two consecutive days unless minimal fluid is present or you aren't perspiring. However, for those leading an active daily life, it's advisable to change more frequently.
What about using panty liners? Some doctors have noted that many women use them to avoid excess moisture, thinking they can skip changing underwear multiple times a day. However, using panty liners is not the healthiest choice as it can cause blisters and irritation. The general advice is to wear cotton underwear and change it daily.
Go Panty-Free at Night
The debate continues whether to wear underwear while sleeping at night. Women with healthy vaginal conditions are free to decide, but if you're dealing with a yeast infection, there's no harm in sleeping without panties. This allows your vagina to breathe during the night and helps maintain a healthy level of moisture. If you prefer to wear something, opt for loose-fitting sleep pants that are clean and comfortable.
Replace Your Underwear Yearly
Just as you don't wear the same clothes for a year, your underwear shouldn't be an exception. Even after washing, your underwear may still harbor bacteria. This can happen because bacteria can persist in water and survive the washing process. To keep your underwear fresh and clean, make it a habit to clean the drawer or storage area where you keep them!
Regularly Invest in New Panties
Proper Washing and Drying
After washing your underwear, ensure they are thoroughly dried. This step is essential to kill any bacteria that might have survived the wash. Avoid washing your underwear with items from someone unwell. If you have bacterial vaginosis (BV), separate the laundry. Also, refrain from mixing underwear with clothes contaminated by bodily fluids, such as blood or vomit.
Comfort Over Tightness
Select underwear that fits comfortably. Tight-fitting panties may seem like a good idea because they don't create folds. However, they can increase sweat production, leading to excessive moisture and a breeding ground for bacteria. Instead, choose underwear that strikes a balance between being too tight and too loose.
Change Immediately After Exercise
Exercise often leads to sweating, leaving your underwear damp. So, why not swap it out right away? Avoid doing so, as it's not a healthy practice. This is especially true if your workout attire doesn't fit well or doesn't adequately wick moisture. If you've been sitting for an extended period, think about how many bacteria might have multiplied. It's better to shower and change into fresh clothing, including clean underwear!
In conclusion, these are the rules to remember when using underwear. Be a savvy user. Let your vagina breathe freely with cotton underwear, opt for the right size, and change when it becomes excessively damp. Keeping your vaginal health in check is an integral part of your overall well-being. For more valuable insights, explore other informative articles on Fitie!
Source:
Healthline. (2019). 8 Underwear Rules to Live by for a Healthy Vagina [Online] https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/underwear-hygiene#8.-The-style-of-underwear-can-affect-your-mood
The Healthy. (2022). 8 Underwear Mistakes That Can Mess With Your Health [Online] https://www.thehealthy.com/yeast-infection/underwear-mistakes/