“…Clothing can cause alterations in the vaginal microbiota, due to temperature variation, local humidity, and compromised ventilation of the external genitalia, altering the genital ecosystem and causing irritation, an allergic reaction or discharge. 12,13,29,42 Cotton panties allow more aeration and absorb more moisture, allowing perspiration, and cotton underwear was the most commonly used item by women in the present study. However, the fact that they also wore tight jeans or tight pants often caused a restriction of ventilation and compression of the vulva, promoting occlusion and friction, which may be harmful, thus negating the beneficial effect of cotton panties.…”