The right underwear for women: what really matters
- Oh Yes Baby Yes
- Jul 21
- 2 min read
What we wear next to our skin every day affects more than just our well-being. Underwear plays a key role when it comes to intimate health.
Johanna Janku, gynecologist and founder of Oh yes baby yes, explains which materials are recommended, what to look for in terms of cut – and why damp swimwear can be a problem.
Which fabrics are healthy for the intimate area?
The right underwear for women ideally consists of breathable natural fibers – such as cotton. It absorbs moisture, promotes a dry environment, and thus helps to protect the balance of the vaginal flora.
Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or elastane, on the other hand, retain moisture and create a warm, humid environment that can promote the growth of unwanted germs.
Is the cut of the underwear important?
Whether briefs or thongs: it is important that underwear fits well and does not cut in or chafe. Very tight or rubbing styles can lead to micro-injuries.
With very skimpy underwear such as thongs, good intimate hygiene is also important to prevent the possible transmission of bacteria from the anal area.
How often should you change your underwear?
Changing daily is recommended – especially if you are prone to recurring infections. In the case of acute symptoms, Dr. Janku also advises washing briefs at a minimum of 60°C to reliably reduce possible pathogens. Cotton is more suitable for this than synthetic materials.
When is it time to replace underwear?
If the fabric in the crotch area has visibly discolored, this is a sign that it has been attacked by the acidic vaginal environment. Replacement is also recommended in cases of wear, material changes, or friction.
And what about bikinis and swimsuits?
In summer, swimwear is often worn for hours on end – even outside the water. As it is usually made of synthetic materials, a warm, moist environment can form underneath. This can be problematic, especially for sensitive vaginal flora. Therefore, it is important to change into dry clothes as soon as possible after swimming.
The full interview with Dr. Johanna Janku, including further tips, can be found here:
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