Women's health expert explains why sleeping without underwear is better for hygiene

Many women wear underwear to bed every night, thinking it is clean and normal. But a women’s health expert from Tennessee, Hailey Puckett, says that this common habit might not be as healthy as most believe. According to her, sleeping without underwear allows the body to “breathe,” which helps maintain good intimate hygiene and prevents several health issues.

Hailey Puckett, who is a women’s health nurse practitioner, explained in a video that avoiding underwear at night is not just about comfort — it is about protecting the body’s natural balance. She said that the vaginal area needs fresh air and space to stay healthy. When women wear tight underwear during sleep, it can trap moisture and heat, which may lead to irritation, infections, or excess discharge.

She explained that when the vaginal area stays covered for too long, it becomes warm and damp. This can upset the natural pH balance — the level that keeps bacteria and yeast in control. Once the balance is disturbed, women might notice more discharge, itching, or discomfort. Many people then assume they need to wear more underwear to manage the discharge, but this actually makes the problem worse. “If you continue to hold moisture near the vagina and vulva, it can throw off the pH,” she said. “Your body will then produce more discharge trying to fix the problem.”

Hailey’s advice is simple — give your body a break at night. She calls this a “reset” time for the intimate area. Just like skin needs to breathe, the same goes for this sensitive part of the body. Allowing air circulation helps the skin stay dry and clean, reducing the chances of bacterial or yeast infections.

For women who may feel uncomfortable sleeping without underwear, Hailey suggests wearing loose, breathable clothes instead. Cotton boxer shorts or soft pajama bottoms are good options because they allow air to flow and prevent moisture buildup. She warns against wearing tight clothing that presses against the body, such as fitted shorts or synthetic fabrics that trap sweat. “Avoid anything that feels tight around the sides or acts like underwear,” she added.

Doctors and women’s health experts around the world agree that hygiene depends not only on cleanliness but also on balance. Using scented soaps, sprays, or tight clothing can harm the natural bacteria that protect the vaginal area. The best approach is to keep the area clean with mild soap and water and allow it to breathe, especially at night.

Hailey’s message also helps clear up a common myth that discharge is always a sign of infection. In most cases, it is the body’s way of cleaning itself. But when the pH balance is disturbed due to constant moisture or poor air circulation, discharge can increase or change in smell and texture. This can be prevented by simply letting the area stay dry and free of tight clothing for several hours during sleep.

Medical experts also note that wearing tight underwear at night can cause chafing, rashes, or irritation, especially in hot weather. Breathable fabrics and loose-fitting clothes are safer choices. Choosing cotton over synthetic materials also helps because cotton absorbs sweat and keeps the skin cool.

The advice might sound surprising, but it’s based on science and body awareness. A simple change in bedtime routine — like removing underwear before sleep — can make a big difference in comfort and long-term health. It costs nothing, feels natural, and supports the body’s own way of staying clean and balanced.

Hailey Puckett’s message reminds women that small habits can impact health in big ways. By letting the body rest naturally at night, women can prevent infections, reduce irritation, and wake up feeling fresher and healthier.