Underwear and Vaginal Health

While its typically overlooked, the type of underwear we choose has an impact on vaginal health. The best fabrics are natural fabrics like cotton. Other good natural options include hemp, bamboo and linen, according to Suzy Lipinski, M.D., a board-certified OBGYN at Obstetrix® of Colorado, part of Pediatrix® Medical Group. Dr. Lipinski advised against “non-breathable fabrics,” including synthetics such as nylon and satin. Additionally, “woven, rather than knit, fabrics or thick fabric can also limit how much [the fabric] breathes,” she said. When picking a cut, go for comfort. “The key is a comfortable fit that is not constricting or chafing,” Dr. Lipinski said. “This means different underwear for different body types. Ask yourself, does the underwear feel comfortable and move with you or tighten up and constrict? Does the underwear ride up or cause chafing? Even two pairs of underwear in the same cut but [from] different brands can fit differently.”

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