Leaving the house without underwear may be a scary thought, but some experts argue it might actually be good for you.
Historians suggest that humans started wearing underwear because they wanted a barrier to protect their private parts from infections or viruses.
But many people don’t bother. According to a survey in Vanity Fair, 25% of participants said they “go commando”, or skip wearing underwear, at least occasionally.
It’s not known where the term “going commando” came from, but some believe that it originated during the Vietnam War. Soldiers used the term when they avoided wearing underwear to prevent infection when they didn’t get the chance to hit the shower.
There’s no real medical reason to wear underwear, and in some cases, it may also do more harm to your genitals than good.
There are some pros and cons of going commando.
According to Business Insider, the potential benefits of going sans drawers can differ in men and women.
In women, going without underpants could lower the risk of yeast infections that can cause irritation, itchiness, and vaginal discharge. Also, it could reduce vaginal odour, because people can sweat in their genital area, and underwear may trap moisture or odour-causing organisms.
In men, the pros for forgetting the Y-fronts are a lower risk of fungal infections like jock itch, since underwear can trap sweat close to the body. Also, it potentially increases sperm count; when testes become too warm, the increased temperature decreases their ability to make optimal sperm, according to Fosnight.
However, there are negatives to hanging loose.
In women, there’s less protection from drops of urine. Also, skipping underwear might allow regular vaginal discharge to cause visible marks on the clothes.
As for men, it means lowered support. If you have a penis, you may find that going commando leaves you without as much support as you might like during physical activities.
The choice to wear underwear or not is very much a personal one but one that could change your life, literally.
Compiled by Mashudu Mabila
Pictured above: Male and female underwear hanging on a washing line
Image source: Happiest Outdoors
