Is It Unhealthy to Stop Wearing Underwear? Doctors Explain the Risks and Benefits

Is It Unhealthy If I Do Not Wear Underwear? A Doctor Weighs In

Is it unhealthy if I do not wear underwear? I stopped wearing underwear about 3 weeks ago and got used to it. However, recently I've read that there are some negative things to this regarding infections or so. Is this true? Should I wear underwear?

My husband in his 20s, start to not wearing underwear after work. When he reach home from work, bath, and just slip on any pants, short, long, soft or hard, even going out for dinner, shopping, no big deal. Man won't have a hard on 24/7, so long you keep it hygiene, like change the pants after 2 wears… for me, ever since I am pregnant with my son, I got a serious infection, and one of the gynecologist suggest to limit panties wearing time, and so I try to not wear it at home, and the condition gets better, especially after bath. And so, if it's a hot and humid days, and if the clothing permit, I will not wear my panties. But I do change the skirt , pants or dress every single wear.

So the real question is: Is it actually unhealthy to go commando?

Going commando has health benefits. Vaginal health is important. Male reproductive health matters. Hygiene tips are essential. Lifestyle news continues to cover this story.

What the Research Says About Going Commando

Dr. Melanie Bone, an OB-GYN in Florida, told Healthline: "I'm a huge fan of going commando. I'm not aware of any health risks as long as you're not wearing pants that are too tight."

The same advice applies to men. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a urologist at Orlando Health, told Men's Health: "There's no medical reason that you have to wear underwear — unless you are a man who is prone to chafing or has a specific issue like skin-on-skin friction."

For women, the benefits are even clearer.

Wearing tight underwear — especially synthetic fabrics — can trap moisture and create the perfect environment for yeast and bacterial infections. Going commando allows the area to breathe, reducing the risk of:

• Yeast infections — caused by moisture and lack of airflow
• Bacterial vaginosis — linked to tight, non-breathable fabrics
• Skin irritation — from friction and trapped sweat

Your Infection Story Isn't Unusual

The woman who asked this question had a serious infection during pregnancy. Her gynecologist suggested limiting panty wearing time. She tried it. Her condition got better.

This isn't a coincidence. Pregnant women are more prone to vaginal infections due to hormonal changes. Reducing moisture and friction by skipping underwear can significantly help.

One study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that women who wore tight synthetic underwear had a higher risk of recurrent yeast infections compared to those who wore loose cotton underwear or none at all.

Cotton is good. None is better.

What About Men? Your Husband Is on to Something

Your husband in his 20s has the right idea. He ditches underwear after work. He showers. He slips on shorts, pants, whatever.

Man won't have a hard on 24/7, so long you keep it hygiene, like change the pants after 2 wears.

Dr. Brahmbhatt confirms: "Men who work out or live in hot climates often go commando to avoid jock itch and other fungal infections."

The only real downside for men is chafing — especially during exercise or if wearing rough fabrics. But if you're wearing soft materials and changing regularly, it's fine.

When Should You NOT Go Commando?

There are a few situations where underwear is still a good idea:

• During your period — unless you're using a menstrual cup, underwear helps secure pads and tampons
• When wearing rough fabrics — denim, wool, or anything that could chafe
• If you have incontinence — underwear provides a layer of protection
• During intense workouts — unless you're wearing specialized moisture-wicking shorts

The Verdict: It's Actually Healthier to Skip It

So, is it unhealthy to not wear underwear?

No. In fact, it's often healthier.

For women: Going commando reduces the risk of yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and irritation. Your gynecologist was right.

For men: It reduces the risk of fungal infections and chafing. Just keep it clean and change your pants regularly.

And if it's a hot and humid days, and if the clothing permit, I will not wear my panties. But I do change the skirt, pants or dress every single wear.

That's the key: change your outerwear every single time you wear it. That's the hygiene rule that makes going commando safe.

Your husband changes his pants after 2 wears. You change yours every single wear. Either approach works, as long as you're clean and comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Going Commando

Is it unhealthy to not wear underwear?
No. In fact, it can reduce the risk of yeast infections, bacterial infections, and skin irritation.

What happens if you don't wear underwear every day?
For most people, nothing negative. You may experience less moisture, fewer infections, and more comfort.

Should I wear underwear to bed?
It's actually better to sleep without underwear to allow your body to breathe and recover overnight.

Does going commando cause infections?
No, it reduces the risk of infections by allowing airflow and reducing moisture buildup.

Why did my gynecologist tell me to stop wearing underwear?
Likely because you had a recurring infection and the moisture from underwear was making it worse.

Is it weird to not wear underwear?
No. Many people go commando for comfort and health reasons.

How often should I change my pants if I don't wear underwear?
Ideally every wear. Your husband changes after 2 wears, which is also fine if he's not sweating heavily.

Lifestyle news. Health news.

Sources: Healthline, Men's Health, Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, WebMD.