The reason Dweck recommends being bare-bottomed at night is because yeast and bacteria can thrive and proliferate in dark, moist and warm places, she said. When a woman’s private parts are covered up all day by confining clothing and nonbreathable fabrics, including sweaty workout clothes or sanitary pads, it can cause vaginal irritation and moisture to collect in this area, providing a perfect breeding ground for yeast or bacterial infections, Dweck said.
Aeration of the genitals is good for women who are prone to vaginal infections, itchiness and irritation, and baring their bottoms can be part of a general hygiene regimen that might afford them some relief, Dweck said. During the rest of the day, cotton underwear is the best choice for women having these issues, because it’s absorbent, she said.
An added benefit of keeping panties off while in bed is that it may enhance intimacy between a woman and her partner, Dweck said.
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