The Legging Habit You Need to Ditch, According to a Doctor
Do you wear underwear with workout leggings? We know this question may feel a bit intimate, but here's the thing: It matters. Between hot-button topics like panty lines, naked leggings, and, well, your health "down there," revisiting your activewear undergarment choices is actually important. So we tapped a gynecological expert to fill us in: Is there a right or wrong choice when it comes to leggings and underwear?
"The answer to this has more to do with comfort than any gynecologic risk," says Sara Twogood, MD, an assistant professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at USC's Keck School of Medicine. "Depending on seams or material, not wearing underwear may chafe."
In addition, Twogood notes that moisture due to sweat and general body function are important to factor in, especially if you're wearing leggings for something more active. "If the genital region is constantly moist due to wearing non-breathable material, this increases the risk for a yeast infection. It may also increase odor (and although odor is probably normal under these circumstances, it may be bothersome to the woman)."
Twogood's recommendation is to choose cotton underwear to allow for maximum breathability. And if you're partial to going without underwear, make sure to wash your leggings frequently to avoid odor and possible infection.
Now that you know, read on to shop leggings for whatever activity is on your agenda.
If you're into athleisure, Adidas is the way to go.
Don't be afraid to stray away from the typical colors.
Stay cool and comfortable throughout your yoga class.
Whoever said that navy and black clash hasn't seen these leggings.
Channel Bella Hadid, and pair these with a matching sports bra.
These high-rise compression leggings are perfect for intense workouts.
We love the mesh stripes. Want more? This is hte controvesial trend you need to try!
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to Wear
Ready in 10 minutes or less.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Suki Waterhouse Wore the New Adidas It Sneakers to Coachella With a Fur Coat
Get a pair before they're sold out everywhere.
By Allyson Payer
-
The Controversial Pant-and-Shoe Combo the Fashion Set Is Wearing Right Now
Outfit inspo from Paris to NYC.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Only 9 Jackets You Need for Spring, According to Fashion People
There's something for everyone.
By Remy Farrell
-
Kendall Jenner Just Wore the 2024 Legging Trend That's Also Runway-Approved
Hers are $88.
By Eliza Huber
-
Gigi Hadid's Outfit Made Leggings Look More Elegant Than We Thought They Could
She knows what she's doing.
By Allyson Payer
-
And Now, 5 Elevated Ways to Wear Your Jeans in 2024
Denim devotees, unite.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
I'm Saving This '90s Supermodel's Airport Looks for All My Travel Days in 2024
Each one is comfortable and super chic.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes