In an era where comfort often trumps craft, a gynecologist from the Russian health service SberZdorovye, Dr. Victoria Marinovskaya, has issued a pointed reminder: what you wear—and how you care for yourself—matters deeply. Speaking to Lenta.ru, she outlined everyday habits that can undermine women’s intimate health, and her insights echo centuries of lingerie history.
First, the fabric of our undergarments. Dr. Marinovskaya warns against habitual use of synthetic lingerie, which traps heat and moisture—creating an ideal environment for Candida and other pathogens. This is not a new concern. In the 19th century, the rise of cheap synthetic dyes and rubberized fabrics sparked similar debates among physicians and corsetieres. Today, brands like Victoria’s Secret (founded in 1977, revolutionizing the market with mass-market seduction) and the minimalist cult favorite Cosabella (established in 1983, known for Italian lace and breathable cottons) offer alternatives, but the core lesson remains: natural fibers like cotton and modal allow the skin to breathe.
Second, the thong—a staple of modern wardrobes since its popularization in the 1990s by designers like Donna Karan and Calvin Klein—poses risks. Dr. Marinovskaya notes that its narrow cut can transfer bacteria from the rectum to the vagina, leading to recurrent infections. This is a design trade-off: the thong’s allure of invisibility under clothing comes at a cost to microbial balance.
Beyond underwear, the doctor cautions against douching and harsh cleansers. These disrupt the protective lactobacillus layer, a lesson the ancient Greeks learned when they used vinegar and wine for hygiene—often with unintended consequences. Modern scented panty liners, with their chemical fragrances and non-breathable cellulose layers, can trigger contact dermatitis. Brands like Always (launched in 1983) have since introduced fragrance-free lines, but the principle endures: less is more.
Finally, Dr. Marinovskaya references gynecologist Alyssa Dweck on age-related libido loss, often linked to vaginal dryness—a reminder that intimate health is a lifelong conversation, not a fleeting trend.
Originally reported by Lenta.RU