and it’s not necessarily the side you’d expect. Dr. Jodie Horton, a board-certified ob-gyn, dropped some knowledge that might make you rethink your gym drawer entirely.
The Science Behind Going Commando
Here’s the deal: your vagina is a self-cleaning, self-regulating powerhouse. It’s got its own ecosystem of good bacteria (lactobacilli, if we’re getting fancy) that keeps bad bacteria in check. But when you add sweat, synthetic fabrics, and friction into the mix? That’s when things can go sideways. Dr. Horton explains that a warm, damp environment—like the one created by sweaty underwear—is basically a five-star resort for yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Ditching underwear eliminates that extra layer of moisture-trapping fabric, reducing the risk of irritation, itching, and infections. And if you’ve ever felt that post-spin-class swampy situation down there, you know exactly what we’re talking about.
Why Thongs Are the Worst Offenders
If you’re thinking, “Fine, I’ll just wear a thong—less fabric, less problem,” pump the brakes. Thongs might seem like a sleek solution, but they’re actually a one-way ticket to Bacteriaville. The constant back-and-forth movement can transport E. coli from your backside to your front door, increasing the risk of UTIs and vaginal infections. And let’s be real, nobody wants to explain to their doctor that their cute lace thong might be the reason for their third UTI this year. Dr. Horton’s verdict? “Skip the underwear altogether, but if you absolutely must wear something, make sure it’s not a thong.”
But What About Periods or Discharge?
Okay, so going commando sounds great in theory, but what if you’re on your period or dealing with extra discharge? First off, totally normal—bodies do body things. Dr. Horton says it’s fine to adjust based on your cycle. If you’re bleeding, opt for period-proof leggings or black bottoms (because let’s face it, leaks happen). For discharge, moisture-wicking fabrics are your best friend. The key is to avoid letting sweat or moisture sit against your skin for too long, whether you’re wearing underwear or not.
The Best Underwear for Workouts (If You Must)
Not ready to embrace the freedom of going commando? No judgment. If you’re sticking with underwear, Dr. Horton says to skip cotton (it holds onto moisture like a sponge) and go for moisture-wicking fabrics instead. Look for workout-specific undies made from polyester, nylon, or bamboo—they’re designed to pull sweat away from your skin and dry quickly. Bonus: some brands even have built-in odor control, because nobody wants to smell like a locker room after barre class.
Post-Workout Hygiene: The Real Game-Changer
Here’s the thing—whether you wear underwear or not, what you do after your workout matters way more. Sitting around in sweaty leggings is like marinating in bacteria. Dr. Horton’s golden rule? Change out of your workout clothes ASAP. If you can, hop in the shower and rinse off with warm water (no need for harsh soaps—your vagina cleans itself, remember?). Gently pat dry before putting on fresh clothes. And if you start noticing funky smells, itching, or irritation, don’t ignore it—check in with your ob-gyn to rule out any infections.
At the end of the day, the underwear debate boils down to personal comfort and what works for your body. Some people swear by going commando, others can’t imagine it. But now that you’ve got the facts, you can make an informed choice—and maybe even convert a few friends to Team No-Underwear along the way.
