What you put on your body is just as important as what you put in it. We often focus on eating clean, using natural skincare, and reducing toxins in our homes, but what about our clothes? The fabrics we wear every day, especially in intimate areas, can have a direct impact on our health, hormones, and overall well-being. Synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and spandex may be convenient, but they come with hidden risks, from trapping heat and moisture to exposing our skin to hormone-disrupting chemicals. Let’s explore why choosing natural fibers can be a simple yet powerful way to support your body.
How Synthetic Clothes Affect Your Health
Most synthetic fabrics are made from petroleum-based chemicals, which means they don’t breathe like natural fibers. This lack of breathability creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive, leading to common issues like UTIs, thrush, and skin irritation. Tight-fitting leggings, lace-trimmed polyester underwear, and moisture-wicking gym clothes might seem like good choices, but if they don’t allow air circulation, they can cause more harm than good.
Beyond comfort, many synthetic materials are also treated with chemicals that can disrupt hormone balance. Flame retardants, phthalates, and formaldehyde—found in some clothing finishes—have been linked to endocrine disruption, meaning they can interfere with your body’s natural hormone production and regulation. Over time, repeated exposure to these chemicals may contribute to hormonal imbalances, worsening symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and skin issues.
Why Natural Fibres Are Better for Your Skin and Hormones
Natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, silk, bamboo, and hemp allow your skin to breathe, wick moisture away naturally, and reduce the risk of irritation. These fabrics are not only gentler on the skin but also free from many of the harsh chemicals found in synthetic alternatives.
Choosing breathable, chemical-free fabrics can help:
Reduce the risk of infections – Proper airflow helps prevent thrush, UTIs, and bacterial overgrowth.
Support hormone balance – Avoiding synthetic chemicals limits exposure to hormone disruptors.
Improve skin health – Natural fibers are less likely to cause irritation, rashes, and allergies.
Boost overall comfort – Lightweight, breathable fabrics help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating.
Rethinking Underwear: Should You Sleep Without It?
Your vagina is self-cleaning and thrives when given the chance to breathe. Wearing tight, synthetic underwear at night can trap moisture and create an environment where bacteria and yeast flourish. If possible, try going without underwear when you sleep, or opt for loose-fitting, 100% cotton alternatives. This simple change can reduce irritation and help maintain vaginal health.
What About Period Pants: Are They Really Safe?
Period underwear has become increasingly popular as an eco-friendly, comfortable alternative to disposable products. But not all brands are created equal. Many period pants contain synthetic absorbent layers made from plastic-based materials, and some are even treated with toxic chemicals like PFAS (forever chemicals), which have been linked to hormone disruption, immune issues, and reproductive health concerns.
When choosing period underwear, look for brands that use certified organic cotton and avoid chemical treatments. Always check the label, and if a company isn’t transparent about their materials, it might be best to look elsewhere.
Pro Tip: Always check clothing labels before purchasing. If a fabric is synthetic but marketed as “breathable” or “moisture-wicking,” it may still contain hormone-disrupting chemicals. Choosing natural, organic, and minimally processed materials is the best way to support your body.
Common Fabrics and How They Affect Your Health
When choosing clothing, it’s important to understand what different fabrics are made of and how they impact your body. Here’s a quick guide to the most common materials:
Synthetic Fabrics (Avoid or Minimize)
• Polyester – A petroleum-based synthetic fiber that doesn’t breathe well and is often treated with chemicals that can irritate the skin.
• Nylon – A synthetic fabric made from plastic polymers; traps heat and moisture, increasing the risk of bacterial growth.
• Spandex (Lycra, Elastane) – A stretchy fiber used in activewear and underwear; often coated with chemicals to enhance elasticity, which can cause skin sensitivity.
• Rayon (Viscose) – A semi-synthetic fabric made from chemically processed wood pulp; can be treated with toxic dyes and finishes.
• Acrylic – A plastic-based fiber often used as a wool alternative; prone to shedding microplastics and can be irritating to sensitive skin.
Natural Fabrics (Better for Your Health & Hormones)
• Cotton (Preferably Organic) – A breathable, natural fiber that absorbs moisture and reduces irritation. Organic cotton is free from harmful pesticides and chemicals.
• Linen – Made from flax fibers, linen is highly breathable, moisture-wicking, and naturally antibacterial.
• Silk – A luxurious, natural protein fiber that’s gentle on the skin and regulates temperature well.
• Bamboo (Viscose Bamboo) – Naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking, but be cautious of chemical processing methods. Look for “mechanically processed bamboo” for the cleanest option.
• Hemp – A durable, breathable fiber that gets softer with washing and is naturally resistant to bacteria and mold.
Making Informed Choices About Your Wardrobe
It’s easy to overlook the impact of clothing on our health, but small changes can make a big difference. Consider swapping out synthetic underwear for organic cotton, choosing breathable fabrics for daily wear, and paying attention to labels before making a purchase. If you’re unsure, brands that prioritize sustainability and toxin-free materials are often a safer bet.
At Womankind, we focus on holistic menopause wellness, which includes looking at external factors like clothing that may be impacting your hormone health. If you’re experiencing ongoing vaginal health issues or suspect your hormones are out of balance, our wellness consultations can help you identify potential triggers and make supportive lifestyle changes.