Vaginal yeast infections, also known as vaginal candidiasis, are quite common, affecting up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their life (per Mayo Clinic). They can be particularly irritating because they manifest as itching in the vaginal area, a burning sensation during sex or while peeing, vaginal discharge, soreness, and swelling of the vulva.
When you sleep naked, you’re giving your vagina a break from tight and moist underwear that can be a breeding ground for bacteria and put you at risk for yeast infections and urinary tract infections. You’re basically giving your vagina some breathing space and much-needed air. Synthetic underwear, in particular, is problematic for yeast infections. Materials like nylon and spandex further inhibit air circulation and trap heat and moisture inside.
For men, sleeping in your birthday suit is about providing relief from chafing and irritation brought on by tight undergarments and also about preventing bacterial infections. More importantly, your sperm health might be influenced too. According to a 2018 study published in the journal Human Reproduction, involving 656 subjects, men who self-reported to mainly wearing boxers to bed had a 25% higher sperm concentration and 17% higher total sperm count than the men who wore tight underwear. What’s even better than boxers? Sleeping naked. Closely tied to your sexual health is the health of your sex life and relationship — and sleeping naked can have an unexpected effect in those areas, too.