What do your panties look like? Take a look, it’s a straightforward path to pain and infection

Wearing panties, although it is an everyday and seemingly trivial activity, can be associated with a number of mistakes. It turns out that not only the material from which they are made is important, but also the cut. This small, but very important item of clothing is not without significance for our health. On the one hand, it can be the cause of intimate infections, on the other – the place where we see its first symptoms. It is worth remembering a few simple rules.

1. When choosing panties, it is not worth being guided by fashion. Better – for our health – to pay attention to their cut and the fabric from which they are made
2. It is also important to properly wash the panties – not only the detergents we use are important, but also the washing and drying cycle.
3. Above all, however, we must carefully study any contamination that appears on the panties. Stains and discharge are important information
4. More current information can be found on the Onet homepage

Panties – what material to choose?

Ideally, every centimeter of underwear should be woven from natural fibers, especially the part that adheres to intimate places. It should be clean and dry. According to research published in 2018 in Obstetrics & Gynecology, wearing underwear without cotton can cause a yeast infection. Synthetic fabrics (e.g. polyester) may affect the condition of private parts. The point is that artificial materials do not provide airflow, trap heat and moisture and thus irritate the skin. Under such conditions, a good environment is created for the multiplication of bacteria or fungi. Unfortunately, silk has a similar effect. Leave more fancy solutions for special occasions. Above all, be faithful to cotton, because the body likes it.

«(Cotton – ed.) Is a highly breathable material that has the ability to reduce moisture. As a result, women wearing 100% cotton are less likely to suffer from vaginal irritation and yeast infections, “noted Dr. Jennifer Wider, a women’s health expert and author of the book. “Conscious patient” (orig. “The Savvy Woman Patient”).

The rest of the article below the video material.

Panties that are too small can cause pain in intimate parts

The size of the underwear is important, as is the cut. Tight underwear (and tight-fitting tights) can cause your intimate parts to sweat, which can contribute to the development of infection and irritation. In some women, tight underwear, as well as applying a tampon and having sex, can cause a pain in the vulva called vulvodynia (from the words vulva-vulva and odyne-pain).

Washing panties does not always remove bacteria

A 2019 study in Applied and Environmental Microbiology suggests bacteria can survive the wash cycle. Over time, this can affect the condition of the vagina as it increases the risk of yeast infection or inflammation of the urinary tract. If you wash your laundry in a shorter cycle, it is a good idea to tumble dry it for 30 minutes after washing. A review of research published in 2015 in Frontiers in Microbiology found that lower washing temperatures will help get rid of bacteria, but only if bleach is used in detergents. It is also worth remembering that thorough drying of the laundry can effectively reduce the risk of bacterial infection.

Aromatic detergents not recommended

The skin in intimate places can also be irritated by perfumes, which are used in detergents to give them a pleasant scent. The chemicals in the preparations used to soften fabrics can also cause itching, so it’s better to use hypoallergenic agents.

“Some women are more sensitive than others, but overall, scented tampons and strong detergents can cause itching and irritation, and even a burning sensation,” Dr. Wider noted.

The thongs promote the movement of bacteria

Leaving only a thin strip of material may encourage the movement of bacteria, which of course increases the risk of infection

“Many thongs are made of lacy, synthetic materials that are non-breathable. This increases the risk of irritation and infection. Another problem faced by women is that thongs have a thin strip of material that can carry bacteria from one place to another ”- Dr. Wider.

Don’t ignore the stains on your underwear

The body leaves its marks on the underwear. Sight may be our first doctor who can pick up disturbing changes. Depending on your menstrual cycle, clear or white discharge may appear on your underwear. It shouldn’t be alarming. However, concerns should be raised by the one with a gray or greenish tint, purulent, frothy or cheesy. This could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis. Also, an unpleasant, strong and noticeable smell could indicate an infection or other problems.

Avoid sweaty underwear

No matter how intense your training was, whether it was yoga or weightlifting, or maybe a walk with poles in the woods or a bike ride to work, the truth is, you should change your underwear as soon as possible. Again, the rule is important – the underwear you wear, no matter what time of day, should be clean, made of natural materials and dry.

“Synthetic materials do not breathe as well as cotton and can trap moisture and bacteria after training,” warns Dr. Wider.

Heat and moisture irritate the skin. They can lead to inflammation of intimate parts. They become a breeding ground for bacteria and yeasts. They lead to rashes, they promote chafing.

Sleep without panties or in loose-fitting shorts

The night here will be no different from the day when it comes to lingerie recommendations. With one small exception. First of all, we put loose and natural materials on the bed, also under the underside of the nightgown. However, the best solution is to sleep completely naked, and if the weather is not favorable, at least leave your panties in the wardrobe. Are you still hesitant? Then choose the ones that are the least close to your body to breathe smoothly.

We encourage you to listen to the latest episode of the RESET podcast. This time we devote it to self-compassion – a trend that has developed very strongly in the United States, but is still in its infancy in Poland. What is it and how does it affect our daily functioning? You will hear about this and many other issues related to self-compassion in the latest episode of our podcast.