Is it safe to skip wearing underwear at home due to the summer heat? Doctors weigh in

The summer season is upon us, and no matter how much we prepare for the heat, there are just days when it becomes unbearable. 

In an earlier report, House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo Representative Janette Garin advised women “not to wear underwear, especially if they are just in the confines of their homes.” 

According to the physician and former Health secretary, not only would going commando help you to keep cool down there, it would also avoid the risk of fungal infection or yeast infection.

“It’s quite advisable na walang underwear pero naka-pajama ka naman o naka-shorts,” Garin said.

Garin also said women are more susceptible to fungal infection if they wear tight clothes during hot weather.

Speaking to GMA News Online, celebrity doctor Vicki Belo said she agrees with Garin’s statement.

“The Philippines is such a hot country that perspiration against the skin in a warm, moist environment can be a good breeding ground for yeast infection,” the 67-year-old doctor said.

“Yeast infections can be caused in the skin that is exposed to moisture for prolonged periods of time, especially when it’s occluded by underwear,” she added. 

But Belo clarified skipping on underwear should be on a case-to-case basis. Besides, some people are more prone to get yeast infection than others, she added.

“If you have had episodes of infection with a cheesy or toilet tissue paper-like discharge from your private area, I do advise patients to sleep without underwear,” she said. 

Yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis is the result of the overgrowth of “bad bacteria.” Poor hygiene, wearing tight pants or underwear made with synthetic fiber, and even stress also put women at risk of getting a yeast infection.

Meanwhile, certified dermatologist Jarische Lao-Ang said it’s “still better to wear undergarments for hygiene” even when it’s the summer season.

“I would instead recommend women to wear loose-fitting undergarments to prevent increased moisture and friction that are risks for fungal infection,” Dr. Ang said. 

— LA, GMA Integrated News