G-strings: risks to a woman's intimate health

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Extract from the article: The thong has become a staple of women's lingerie for its aesthetic appeal and discretion under clothing. However, this undergarment can have little-known consequences for women's intimate health.

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The thong has become a staple of women's lingerie for its aesthetic appeal and discretion under clothing. However, this undergarment can have little-known consequences for women's intimate health.

The widest part of the thong covers only the pubic area and the top of the buttocks. The area from the buttocks to the pubis is often made up of a thin cord, which may be in close contact with the skin, the lips of the vagina or even the vaginal mucosa. This constant contact and the rubbing of the thong against the skin can create an environment conducive to various health problems, including vaginal infections, sores and even burns. These risks are particularly exacerbated when the cleanliness of the thong is neglected, especially in hot weather, and in overweight people.

Some women have had the experience. Léa, aged 30, says, « I used to suffer from repeated urinary infections. Since I switched from thongs to cotton, I feel better». As for Aïcha, aged 27, she added that «I often had irritations without understanding why. Changing my lingerie solved everything for me». G-strings, often chosen for their aesthetic and sexy appeal, are often a source of concern for women's health, according to Professor Der Adolphe Somé, obstetric gynaecologist at the Souro Sanou University Hospital in Bobo-Dioulasso (Burkina Faso). « By facilitating the migration of bacteria from the anus to the vagina, it increases the risk of cystitis and vaginal infections.  G-strings create a direct passageway for germs such as Escherichia coli, which are often implicated in urinary tract infections. What's more, the synthetic materials from which these undergarments are often made retain heat and moisture, creating an environment conducive to fungal infections and imbalances in vaginal flora. ‘The lack of ventilation encourages the proliferation of fungi and can cause persistent itching », explained Professor Der Adolphe Somé.

To reduce these risks, the specialist recommends a number of preventive measures.Firstly, it is advisable to avoid nylon models, which tend to retain moisture and encourage proliferation.It is also advisable to limit the use of thongs, to allow the skin to breathe and reduce the risk of irritation.Overweight people should also avoid wearing this type of lingerie, because of the accumulated pressure exerted on the pelvic region.Finally, it is advisable to opt for traditional cotton briefs, which offer greater breathability and moisture absorption, including potential health risks.

Elom AKAKPO & Evelyn OYEDELE