The question of whether it is healthier to forgo underwear, known as going commando, depends heavily on an individual’s anatomy, daily activities, and overall health profile. The decision is not a simple yes or no, but rather a calculation involving moisture control, temperature regulation, and the risk of friction or contamination. For both men and women, the primary health consideration revolves around maintaining an environment that discourages the overgrowth of microbes, while also protecting delicate skin from irritation. The choice between wearing and not wearing underwear is ultimately a personal one, best made with an understanding of the physiological factors at play.
How Going Commando Affects Vaginal Health
Eliminating underwear can significantly impact the vulvovaginal environment by promoting better air circulation and reducing moisture retention. Tight or synthetic underwear traps heat and moisture against the skin, creating warm, damp conditions where yeast (Candida) and certain bacteria thrive. Going commando allows the area to “breathe,” which helps maintain a drier, healthier environment.
This increased airflow is often recommended for individuals who experience recurrent yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, as it prevents the dampness that encourages microbial overgrowth. Removing this layer can also reduce chafing and injury to the sensitive labial skin caused by friction from tight or rough fabrics.
However, going commando is not without risks, especially when paired with certain outer garments. Wearing tight-fitting clothes like abrasive jeans without underwear can lead to significant friction and skin irritation. This direct contact with rough fabric may cause micro-abrations, potentially increasing the risk of external infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs). Proper hygiene is particularly important when choosing to go commando, as it leaves the genital area in direct contact with the outer layer of clothing.
Testicular Temperature and Male Reproductive Health
For men, the decision to go commando is strongly linked to the physiological need for testicular temperature regulation. Optimal sperm production (spermatogenesis) requires a temperature approximately 2 to 4 degrees Celsius cooler than the core body temperature. Tight-fitting underwear, such as briefs, holds the testicles close to the body, which can elevate the scrotal temperature and compromise sperm health.
Chronic elevation of scrotal temperature negatively affects sperm concentration, total sperm count, and motility. Going commando, especially at night, helps the body engage its natural cooling mechanism by allowing the testes to hang freely and maintain a lower, more suitable temperature. Studies have shown that men who wear loose-fitting underwear often exhibit higher sperm parameters compared to those who consistently wear tight briefs.
While temperature regulation is improved by forgoing underwear, daytime activity presents a counterpoint regarding support and friction. Without the barrier of an undergarment, the skin of the groin and inner thighs is more susceptible to chafing and irritation from the movement of outer clothing. For activities that involve significant movement, the lack of support can also be uncomfortable, potentially leading to increased friction and micro-injuries.
Situations That Change the Calculation
The benefits or drawbacks of going commando shift dramatically depending on the specific activity or environment.
Sleeping and Loose Clothing
Sleeping without underwear is widely suggested for both sexes because it maximizes air circulation and cooling, allowing the skin to dry out overnight. This practice supports the body’s natural temperature regulation and reduces the opportunity for moisture-loving microbes to multiply. Conversely, wearing loose outerwear, such as pajama bottoms or a skirt, makes going commando a low-risk option because it minimizes friction and maximizes airflow.
Exercise and Moisture
Exercise and gym environments introduce significant sweat. During high-intensity workouts, going commando may increase the risk of chafing due to prolonged moisture contact and skin-on-skin friction. If the outer garment is not designed to wick moisture, the skin remains wet, increasing the risk of fungal infections like jock itch.
Water and Contamination
Water activities or wearing wet outer garments, like a damp swimsuit, strongly advise against going commando. Prolonged contact with moisture, especially when combined with potential contaminants from water or shared surfaces, can significantly increase the risk of developing infections.
Choosing the Right Fabric When You Do Wear Underwear
When the choice is made to wear underwear, the material science of the garment becomes paramount for genital health. The most frequently recommended material for daily wear is natural, breathable cotton. Cotton is highly absorbent and allows air to flow freely, helping to wick away excess moisture and prevent the creation of a damp environment that encourages microbial growth.
Many modern underwear styles feature a cotton gusset, a small panel sewn into the crotch, to ensure breathability and moisture absorption. Synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, and satin should be avoided for daily use because they trap heat and moisture against the skin.
The exception involves specialized athletic wear. For intense exercise, some synthetic blends are formulated to actively wick moisture away from the skin, a function that cotton lacks as it absorbs and retains water. These moisture-wicking synthetics are appropriate for the duration of a workout, but they should be changed immediately afterward to prevent prolonged contact with trapped moisture.