The practice known as “going commando” (GC) means wearing no underwear beneath outer garments. This choice is often driven by a desire for increased comfort, greater freedom, or a belief in potential health benefits. The decision to forgo an inner layer introduces several specific changes to the body’s microenvironment. Examining the health implications for men requires a detailed look at physiological needs, the risks of friction-related injuries, and the consequences for personal hygiene. This analysis will clarify the actual impact of this common practice on male health.
Physiological Effects on Testicular Temperature
The male reproductive system requires a finely tuned temperature for optimal function. Testicles are located outside the body because the process of producing viable sperm, known as spermatogenesis, is temperature-sensitive. Optimal sperm health is maintained at a temperature approximately 2 to 4 degrees Celsius lower than the core body temperature of 37°C.
Wearing tight-fitting underwear or briefs can impede the natural thermoregulatory mechanisms of the scrotum. This type of garment holds the testicles closer to the body, which can elevate the local temperature and potentially hinder sperm production. Chronically elevated scrotal temperature has been linked to a reduction in sperm concentration, total count, and motility.
Going commando, especially when wearing loose-fitting trousers, promotes greater airflow around the groin. This increased ventilation assists the body’s natural cooling process by allowing the testicles to hang further from the body’s heat. Reducing the thermal insulation and restriction caused by an extra layer may help maintain the cooler temperature necessary for sperm health.
Understanding Skin Irritation and Chafing Risks
While GC offers potential thermal benefits, it significantly increases the likelihood of mechanical injury to the sensitive skin of the groin. Underwear typically acts as a smooth, absorbent barrier between the skin and the rougher textures of outer clothing. When this protective layer is removed, the delicate skin is exposed to constant friction from seams, zippers, and the material of pants.
Chafing is a form of irritant contact dermatitis caused by the continuous rubbing of skin against fabric or skin against skin, especially when moisture is present. The sensitive skin of the inner thighs and groin is particularly susceptible to this friction. Materials like denim or heavy cotton, with their prominent stitching, can quickly cause redness and painful abrasions.
These frictional injuries can manifest as a burning sensation, rashes, or painful splits in the skin. The lack of an absorbent layer means sweat and moisture accumulate directly against the outer garment, exacerbating the friction and accelerating chafing. Painful abrasions can compromise the skin barrier, potentially creating entry points for bacteria.
Hygiene and Specific Activity Considerations
Underwear serves a significant hygienic function by absorbing sweat, minor bodily fluids, and discharges that occur throughout the day. Outer garments are generally washed less frequently than underwear, which creates a hygiene concern when going commando. Without the absorbent layer, these secretions are deposited directly onto the interior of pants.
This direct contact means that the outer garment must be washed after every wear to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and fungi. The groin area is naturally warm and humid, providing an ideal environment for microorganisms to thrive. Transferring moisture and organic material to the outerwear can increase the risk of fungal infections, such as jock itch (Tinea cruris).
The risks associated with GC are amplified during specific activities. Strenuous exercise, which generates significant sweat and increases skin movement, is ill-suited for the practice. High friction and moisture during a workout can quickly lead to severe chafing and irritation. Similarly, wearing tight clothing without underwear increases the direct pressure and rubbing against the seams.