OB/GYN reveals why you should NEVER wear underwear to bed

Daily Mail​

08-07-2025

An OB/GYN has shared why you should never wear underwear to bed - and how it could be harming your health.
Tracy Shevell, a high-risk OG/GYN, recently shared a video to TikTok about why women can - and should - slumber sans underwear.
'It is really, really good for your overall feminine health to sleep without underwear,' the medical professional declared.
'The whole concept of "airing out" the baby without a diaper - kind of the same thing applies,' she continued.
'It's really good for your vaginal microbiome, it's good for it to be able to breathe,' she added.
While clarifying that vaginas 'don't breathe,' Tracy explained in detail what happens when you sleep commando.
'In essence what's happening is being exposed to the air is really good for stagnation so you don't get yeasty infections for example if you're kind of moist or sweaty,' the professional continued.
Tracy added she is glad people are 'finally' talking about the nitty-gritty aspects of women's health.
'I love that people are posting about this and finally, finally, maybe people will listen to me when I tell them not to wear underwear when they sleep under their pajamas,' she joked.
'Be free girls,' she encouraged.
Many OB/GYNs have encouraged women to ditch their undergarments - or at least opt for fabrics that are conducive to good vaginal health.
Dr. Sameea Chughtai, a board certified physician with a special interest in female health, said sleeping without underwear can have benefits - particularly for specific people.
'For people with sensitive skin and are prone to infection or irritation then sleeping with underwear can worsen certain conditions like tinea cruris (jock itch), folliculitis (inflamed hair follicles), contact dermatitis (irritated skin from a certain substance) and intertrigo (a rash in the skin folds),' she told the DailyMail.com.
To avoid this, Dr. Chughtai recommends wearing 'clean, loose and breathable fabrics' like cotton.
'[This can] prevent any problems,' she explained.
The professional added that it can also impact sleep cycles in addition to feminine health.
'Wearing synthetic fabrics like nylon, spandex or lace can trap body heat and sweat, raise core body temperature and lead to disrupted sleep,' the doctor explained.
'Our body lowers core temperature for optimal sleep and this may reduce overall sleep quality,' she added.
'Going without underwear may help improve airflow to skin and keep you dry and cool. It may also help reduce nocturnal sweating or hot flashes for menopausal women,' Dr. Chughtai suggested.
'Loose breathable cotton or moisture wicking bamboo is less likely to affect sleep negatively.'
Dr. Alyse Kelly-Jones, board certified OB-GYN, agreed, telling Healthline that fabrics are important when choosing underwear - particularly to sleep in.
'The vulva is a very sensitive and delicate area, similar to the lips on your face. You want to treat gently,' she explained.
She added that cotton is also favorable because it is breathable and absorbent, which can help prevent yeast infections.
'Since it is healthy to have a vaginal discharge, similar to the moisture you always have in your mouth, you want your underwear to gently absorb any extra moisture,' the professional explained.
She also encourages people to change underwear regularly - at least once a day.