I asked a gynaecologist if g-strings are actually bad for your vaginal health

An expert gives us the lowdown.

Everyone has their preferences when it comes to choosing the right pair of knickers for your nether regions. If you took a rummage through my drawer, you’d see some tattered hipster-style ‘period’ undies, a couple of boy short briefs, many cheeky cuts that have almost lost their elastication from so much wear, and finally, my silky, lace g-strings. 

I cannot remember when I made the switch from the humble bikini brief to team g-banger, but I’ve preferred them for as long as I can remember. As long as they aren’t too tight, I feel far more comfortable and confident in them than a pair of full-coverage undies that cut into my hips and thighs in all the wrong places.

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I thought this was the norm, or I suppose I hadn’t given much thought to what underwear my pals were wearing, until last weekend. A girlfriend and I were getting changed at the sauna and she commented on how I’m always in a thong. “I only ever wear them if I’m in tight pants, plus I read somewhere they aren’t very good for your vagina,” she explained. 

On my walk home, I naturally googled several variations of if or why g-strings were bad for your vagina. But, since I’m actively trying not to form opinions based on whatever comes up on the first page of search engines, I decided to consult an expert in women’s health, specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Rebecca Mackenzie Proctor. 

Are g-strings actually bad for your health?

To my immediate relief, Dr Rebecca assures me despite the sensational articles I’d stumbled across that had all but crucified my go-to style of undies, in reality, there’s “limited evidence that wearing a g-string has negative health implications”. 

“There is no indication that a particular style of underwear affects vaginal or vulval health. The material your underwear is made from, as well as the fit, should be paid more attention to,” she says. 

“On top of this, given underwear is against your precious lady gems all day, it is important to consider things like the washing detergent you use, changing your underwear at least daily (and sometimes more than once a day if you are perspiring) and choosing mild soaps or soap substitutes near the vulval area as these can disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria. This is what can result in overgrowth of the normal vaginal flora resulting in bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections and even UTIs.”

What about those articles that say g-strings are ‘bacteria highways’ from your anus to your vagina?

“Again, this is a bit of a myth. Although there is a possibility of this occurring if the g-string is made from non-natural material or if it is too tight fitting,” she explains. Dr Rebecca insists it’s far more likely that “poor body hygiene, increased heat and moisture alongside using g-strings made from synthetic material” could be the reason for this. From a gynaecologist’s standpoint, “there is no indication to say the g-string is a no-go”.

So if the style is less important, which materials should we be choosing?

Much to my dismay, it appears as though my silky numbers may have to take a backseat, as they are less effective at absorbing moisture ‘down there’. The best material according to Dr Rebecca “is natural fibres such as cotton or bamboo, as these not only allow for good air-flow but also absorb moisture. Some people find that different colours can impact their vaginal health too, as they react to the dyes in the fabric.”

Does the fit of your underwear matter?

“A good fit of your underwear is just as important,” says Dr Rebecca. “Too tight underwear can result in irritation and chafing of the skin. The restriction can result in a build-up of moisture that can harbour the growth of yeast and some bacteria. Too tight can also cause irritation and increased pressure on the hair follicles can lead to ingrown hairs.”

What about going commando?

Just asking Dr Rebecca this question gave me joy, so you can imagine my glee when she confirmed going commando is well and truly still on the cards, but is best kept for bedtime.

“The main aim of underwear is to protect the vulva and vagina but also protect your clothing from the (very normal) presence of physiological vaginal discharge. Commando is something I would recommend at nighttime especially as it gives a chance for the vagina to ‘breathe’ as well as preventing moisture buildup. If commando is not your thing then wearing loose nightwear, briefs, pyjamas etc without underwear would be my recommendation.”

So there you have it – g-strings are perfectly safe to wear, as long as you keep up good hygiene and choose the right fabric and size. 

For more on vaginal and vulval health, head here.