Best underwear to help prevent infections

Choosing the right underwear isn’t a minor detail. It directly affects your everyday comfort and the health of your intimate area. If you’re looking for cotton underwear to prevent infections, here’s a clear, practical guide. We explain why fabric matters, which garments support breathability, and how to match your choice to each moment of your day. We also connect medical guidance with real product ideas from Ysabel Mora’s women’s underwear so you can care for sensitive skin without giving up your style. At the end you’ll find a direct link to our cotton collection.

Why choosing the right underwear matters

The skin of the vulvar area is especially sensitive and needs to breathe. When a fabric doesn’t allow airflow, moisture builds up, creating a warm micro-environment that can raise the risk of vaginal infections like yeast infections and contribute to flora imbalances linked to bacterial vaginosis. Trusted organizations such as Mayo Clinic and the CDC recommend underwear with a cotton crotch, avoiding overly tight garments, and keeping the area clean and dry to reduce infection risk.

Translated to daily life: if you spend hours in synthetic pieces that trap moisture, after workouts or in warm weather, the chance of irritation or overgrowth of yeast and bacteria increases. Picking the right fabric helps maintain balance and lowers the risk.

What underwear helps prevent infections

Short answer: quality cotton, preferably with a 100% cotton gusset. This fabric absorbs moisture and improves airflow, helping to keep skin dry and comfortable. MedlinePlus notes that cotton increases ventilation and reduces moisture build-up, both key to avoiding infections.

Best fabrics to choose

• Cotton: highly breathable, soft on skin, regulates moisture. Explore our full cotton underwear collection.

• Bamboo or bamboo viscose: pleasant feel and good absorption; pair with a cotton gusset.

• Breathable technical microfibers for sport: if you choose synthetics, look for sweat-wicking fabrics and, again, prioritise a cotton gusset.

Fabrics to limit or avoid

• Non-breathable polyester and nylon, rigid lace or laminated finishes that trap heat and moisture.

• Overly tight garments worn for long periods.

The WHO and CDC specifically recommend cotton, looser fits and changing out of sweaty clothes promptly as preventive measures against yeast overgrowth.

Practical tip: if you love lace or seamless finishes, choose styles with a cotton-lined gusset. That way you keep the look while caring for your intimate area.

For men’s underwear, check this blog where we advise on which material to choose.

Medical recommendations to help prevent vaginal infections

Experts agree on a few simple habits that make a difference:

• Wear underwear with a cotton gusset and avoid overly tight fits.

• Change underwear and activewear after exercise or sweating; don’t stay in damp garments.

• Keep the area dry and use gentle hygiene. Avoid douching and perfumed products that disrupt the microbiome.

• If your skin is very reactive, choose soft 100% cotton fabrics and reduce friction with comfortable cuts. ACOG (American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists) also suggests cotton underwear and avoiding irritants.

These tips don’t replace medical care. If you have persistent symptoms of vaginal infection, consult your healthcare professional.

What to wear by activity or situation

• Sport and physical activity: choose briefs or shorts with a cotton gusset and technical outer fabric that wicks sweat. Change as soon as you finish and avoid staying in wet leggings or swimsuits.

• Pregnancy: prioritise softness, stretch and breathability. Cotton cares for sensitive skin and helps minimise irritation.

• Sensitive skin: natural fabrics, flat seams, 100% cotton lining and no fragrances or harsh finishes. ACOG advises avoiding irritants and opting for gentle garments.

• Hot climates: cuts that allow airflow (briefs, shorts) and moisture-absorbing fabrics. Carry a spare pair if you’ll be out for many hours.

• Cold climates: keep cotton as the base layer. If you add thermals, make sure the first layer against the skin is breathable.

How to care for underwear to help avoid infections

Even the best fabric loses effectiveness if it isn’t cared for properly. Good washing and drying habits reduce residual moisture and irritation:

• Wash in warm to hot water according to the label, using mild detergents and avoiding heavily perfumed softeners.

• Rinse thoroughly to remove residues that can irritate sensitive skin.

• Dry completely before storing; don’t leave damp items in closed baskets. Keeping the area dry helps prevent yeast overgrowth.

• Refresh your underwear regularly; wear and tear reduces breathability and support.

Ysabel Mora: comfort, health and style in your underwear

At Ysabel Mora we believe wellbeing starts with the base layer. That’s why we design garments that help keep skin dry and comfortable, with 100% cotton gussets and patterns that adapt to your body without digging in.

If your priority is to help prevent infections and care for sensitive skin, explore our cotton underwear collection: comfortable cuts, soft finishes and the breathability your intimate area needs. Choose pieces that keep moisture under control, reduce irritation risk and feel different from day one.