When you realize it's officially time to stock up on new underwear - will you go for the sexy? Or pure, blissful, uncompromising comfort?
How about "healthy" as a happy medium? It turns out there's a category of underwear that some women's health professionals say is optimal for the well-being of your most intimate parts.
For starters, according to Kim Langdon, MD, a retired and board-certified OB-GYN in Grove City, OH, there's a reason women wear underwear: it can help protect your clothes from vaginal discharge (which is often perfectly normal and healthy!), as well as during your time of the month (obviously). But it's not just about protecting your clothes. The vulva can be sensitive to friction and other skin irritations, so it needs protection.
That's why underwear is designed to act as a buffer between the skin and clothing (incredibly tight dress) that would otherwise create friction that would probably be a little uncomfortable.
How should women's underwear be made?
Underwear may seem pretty basic, but not all underwear is created equal. Certain types of lingerie can contribute to the kind of vaginal irritation you want to avoid when buying a new set.
Some experts recommend being careful with underwear made of synthetic materials like nylon, spandex, and polyester (especially in the crotch lining). A 2003 study published in the European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology suggested that underwear made of synthetic fabrics was associated with a higher risk of yeast infections.
However, choosing materials that may irritate your body is not a "one size fits all" issue, notes Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, an OB-GYN physician, affiliated with Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, and an advocate for integrative women's health.
Cotton and other natural fibers are good.
Natural fibers, such as cotton, are one of the best underwear fabrics to add to your shopping cart because they are gentle on the skin, breathable and comfortable (which is also one of the reasons we are fans of Viv's all-natural bamboo feminine hygiene products). Cynthia Wesley, MD, an OB/GYN affiliated with Atrium Health University City and Carolinas ContinueCARE Hospital at University in Charlotte, NC, recommends that the fabric that touches the vulva be cotton, which is absorbent yet allows for ventilation. (Always a win in the summer!)
Others, like Dr. Langdon, say that any fabric that is breathable and comfortable against the skin is a good choice.
Some synthetic fabrics are probably OK, too...but there are points to consider.
Jen Gunter, MD, an OB/GYN and pain management physician, as well as the author of The Vagina Bible, explains, "More recent studies, which I consider to be of higher quality, have shown no link between underwear and yeast infections. Underwear can't change vaginal pH; that's an internal job," she explains.
A more important factor, Dr. Wesley says, is diet. Her advice for avoiding yeast infections is to watch the sugar in your diet (and avoid consuming excessive amounts). According to Dr. Gilbert-Lenz, your hygiene choices significantly influence your propensity to develop yeast infections. She says that showers, soaps, and harmful chemicals that strip away natural oils and alter the bacterial balance are a bigger problem than underwear fabric.
In addition, Dr. Langdon suggests changing underwear daily to maintain vaginal health, especially at times of the month when you tend to have heavier discharge (such as seven to 10 days after the last day of your period, when you ovulate).
What is the right fit for women's underwear?
As far as styles go, you can go with a brief, bikini, "cheeky" cut, boy shorts, thong, or any other variety. What's healthier? Professionals say the choice is personal but often depends on the following factors:
Bacteria
According to Dr. Wesley, it doesn't matter if the fabric covers the buttocks. "Cheeks on the inside or outside are not a determining factor in vaginal health," Dr. Wesley says. However, the healthiest option is for the fabric to cover the labia, those tender skin folds surrounding the vaginal opening.
Interestingly, Dr. Langdon adds, the main reason not to wear a thong or g-string is that when the fabric is between the cheeks, it can attract bacteria that can pass from the gut into the vagina.
Yeast
What a thong or G-string can't do is cause a yeast infection, according to Dr. Gunter. While some believe that wearing a thong or G-string, which is tight against the vulva, can cause changes in vaginal pH, Dr. Gunter says studies have failed to show a negative impact on vaginal pH.
She also notes that the only thing that can alter the pH of the vulva is an impermeable product, such as plastic or latex, which is usually not a problem, except in the case of incontinence underwear.
Comfort
That said, thongs and G-strings can cause the inner lining of the labia (the labia minora) to become agitated, according to Dr. Wesley: "Thongs and G-strings rub against the labia minora, where the skin is more delicate, and continued friction can lead to skin irritation and breakdown."
Still, there may be occasions when you want to choose the thong from your drawer. Dr. Wesley advises selecting a size that's not "too tight."
Different panties for different uses
Women's undergarments are available not only in a variety of materials and cuts but also for a variety of uses. For example:
The period panties
Periodic panties are meant to be absorbent and waterproof so that women can wear them as their only sanitary product during menstruation. However, many women wear them in addition to other pure products such as tampons and pads. (You'll find two Thinx products on our list - another brand we've tested and can vouch for).
Panties can also be used during the first few weeks postpartum when bleeding occurs, but a tampon is not yet recommended.
Pregnancy and menopause panties
Dr. Wesley points out that pregnancy is a time when a woman's underwear needs can change. For example, a woman who usually prefers briefs may find them constricting to her abdomen during pregnancy and therefore be more comfortable in a bikini cut.
In addition, pregnancy can cause the vulva to become more sensitive, which means a woman may be more comfortable in panties with a broader seat. Menopausal women may also experience sensitivity with a thinner heart, even if this is due to vaginal dryness or reduced pubic hair. Similarly, women who choose not to have hair may find narrower seats more irritating.
Performance underwear
Dr. Gunter observes that some women prefer to wear performance underwear made of moisture-wicking material when exercising. During the limited workout time, this is not harmful to the vagina. Still, it is wise to wear clean underwear once the training is over.
Using the advice of four female gynecologists, we've compiled Amazon's top underwear for women.
1. Natori - Bliss Girl Briefs
Dr. Langdon recommends Natori's Bliss Girl panty, which is made of 100% cotton with stretch lace edges. It's not only breathable but also ultra-soft.
And while it's technically a panty, it's shaped like a bikini, which some women find flattering.
Buy: Natori - Bliss Girl Briefs
2. Thinx - Organic Cotton Periodic Brief
Dr. Wesley loves the Thinx line of period underwear because, among other things, you can choose your level of absorbency. They're also waterproof and easy to rinse and reuse.
According to the company, this particular pair is designed for "moderate absorbency," which is equivalent to a tampon and a half.
Buy: Thinx - Organic Cotton Periodic Brief
3. Hanes - Cotton High Waist Briefs
Hanes' classic high-waisted briefs are 100% cotton (in solid colors and prints) and high-waisted for superior comfort. They are notably soft and breathable, which prevents moisture from being trapped.
Amazon reviewer mchiara said, "If you want a standard cotton panty, this is a great choice." This product has 73% of five-star ratings. The size is as expected. Quality is good. Good weight of cotton."
Buy: Hanes - Cotton High Waist Briefs
4. Hanes - ComfortFlex Fit Microfiber Panties
Another great option from Hanes is the ComfortFlex Fit Microfiber panty. The lightweight, breathable fabric is designed to keep you cool and wicks away moisture so that you can stay dry all day.
Mandy gave us a rave review (5 stars): "I can't even tell you how comfortable these panties are. I don't feel like I'm wearing anything. They are so comfortable. They are very stretchy and the material is so soft."
Buy: Hanes - ComfortFlex Fit Microfiber Panties
5. Ocojoce - Breathable wicking underwear
If you're looking for something to wear when you're active, these panties from Ocojoce might be a perfect fit. It's made of breathable mesh, with what the company calls "odor-resistant, moisture-wicking performance technology" to keep you comfortable and confident. The tagless back can also keep you from itching at the waist when you must focus on your activity.
Rebecca, a five-star reviewer, writes, "Fantastic underwear! I was looking for breathable underwear for my runs. These fit great and stay in place without rolling down!"
Buy: Ocojoce - Breathable wicking underwear
6. Intimate Portal - Under The Bump Maternity Panties
These breathable, absorbent maternity panties have a 100% cotton crotch and are cut low to fit your rounded abdominal area without strain or pressure (they also work as postpartum panties, even for those who deliver by C-section).
Although it's not made of organic cotton, it's lab-tested to ensure it's free of harmful chemicals and heavy metals. And since this is a maternity panty, the lining is intentionally light-colored to make it easier for you to spot any unusual stains.
Buy: Intimate Portal - Under The Bump Maternity Panties
7. ANNYISON - Soft cotton, high-waisted, solid color, breathable briefs
The waistband on these ANNYISON panties makes them an excellent postpartum product; some buyers say the strap offers full support without being too tight - and if you're recovering from a C-section, it's designed to sit above the scar to avoid irritating the incision.
According to one new mom's five-star review, they might even help you feel your best. She wrote, "I bought these for my postpartum recovery, I was a little worried they wouldn't fit as expected or be comfortable. I was wrong! They are the most comfortable underwear, not to mention they really hold everything in all the long, fat pads that come with having a baby! They also look great on a mom who just gave birth. They give you confidence!"
Buy: ANNYISON - Soft cotton, high-waisted, solid color, breathable briefs
8. Just My Size - Cool Comfort Plus Size Cotton High Brief
Because sometimes all you want is comfortable ease.
These high-waisted briefs are 100% cotton, so you know they'll breathe well before putting them on. The pinch-free waistband and comfortable leg bands also mean you won't have to deal with digging, chafing, or riding up.
GreenMommy's five-star review says, "These are the SOFTEST and most comfortable underwear I've ever worn. The elastic is extremely soft around the waist. I just bought two more packages. There was no shrinkage after washing and tumble drying. I am VERY happy to have found this product! I highly recommend them."
Buy: Just My Size - Cool Comfort Plus Size Cotton High Brief
