It’s common knowledge that cotton underwear is the best choice for the health of your nether regions. Many people, however, choose to ignore this advice for the sake of fashion and opt for knickers that are made out of lace or satin.

Yet three countries, Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan, effectively banned lace panties starting back in 2014. The bans aren’t about modesty or concerns about what people might be doing in the privacy of their bedrooms. Instead, these governments think that lace underwear without a cotton lining is unhygienic and poses a threat to one’s health. In the wake of these bans, protests broke out as women demanded the right to choose their underwear.

To get to the bottom of whether lace panties are so bad for us, we consulted doctors who specialize in vaginal health.

What’s the big deal with cotton, anyway?

Cotton underwear is often the most comfortable option, but there are some health benefits to wearing it too, said Dr. Jennifer Angler, a urogynecologist and co-author of ”A Woman’s Guide to Her Pelvic Floor: What the F*@# Is Going On Down There? Cotton is considered the “gold standard” of panties when it comes to wicking away moisture and keeping the vaginal area clean and fresh, she said.

“The reason so many doctors recommend cotton panties, or at least cotton crotches, is that cotton is a very gentle, absorbent and breathable material,” said Dr. Victoria Scott, a urogynecologist and one of Angler’s co-authors. Synthetic materials like spandex and nylon may trap moisture and heat. This creates “an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to grow and cause infection,” Scott said. Moreover, because cotton is “a gentle fabric,” it is less likely to “cause vulvar irritation,” which is uncomfortable and can be painful, she added.

People with certain health conditions should stick to wearing underwear with cotton crotches most of the time. “If you are prone to yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or urinary tract infections, panties with cotton crotches may decrease your risk of developing infections,” Scott said. Additionally, people who have vaginal dryness or vulvar irritation or pain may find that panties with cotton crotches help keep them more comfortable.

Greves adds that those with diabetes or who are pregnant are at higher risk for developing yeast infections and should stick with cotton linings to stay healthy.

Those who want the benefits of cotton but the look of lace should look for panties with cotton crotches or cotton inserts. “The crotch is the most important part of panties for vulvar and vaginal health,” Scott explained. Underwear with a cotton crotch “allow for lace, or any material, underwear to be worn but with the comfort of cotton right where it matters most,” Angler said.

What happens if you don’t have a cotton lining?

The biggest danger in wearing underwear without a cotton crotch is that moisture can build up, which allows yeast and bacteria to thrive, Scott explained.

Overgrowth of yeast can cause uncomfortable yeast infections. When bacteria starts growing in the vaginal area, “it may lead to an imbalance of healthy bacteria in the vagina” and cause bacterial vaginosis (BV), said Dr. Erica Montes, an OB-GYN. BV causes discharge that “can appear thin or milky and possibly cause a fishy odor,” she explained. BV is not just unpleasant, but it may “require antibiotics that are prescribed by your physician,” she said.

Despite the risks, Scott says that wearing panties made out of other materials “is certainly not dangerous” for most people. Because “the balance of bacteria in the vagina is different for all women,” many can wear non-cotton underwear without any negative effects, Montes explained.

Dr. Christenie Greves, an OB-GYN, emphasizes that lace undies have advantages for some. If you choose a high-quality pair, it “is soft, so it may feel good. … Don’t toss out your lace panties if you happen to enjoy wearing them” and they aren’t causing any problems, Scott said.

“The reason so many doctors recommend cotton panties, or at least cotton crotches, is that cotton is a very gentle, absorbent and breathable material,” said Dr. Victoria Scott, a urogynecologist.

Peter Dazeley via Getty Images

“The reason so many doctors recommend cotton panties, or at least cotton crotches, is that cotton is a very gentle, absorbent and breathable material,” said Dr. Victoria Scott, a urogynecologist.

Consider what you’re wearing them for

Montes encourages her patients to consider wearing the right type of underwear for the season and the occasion. Greves stresses that the phrase “everything in moderation” can also apply to lace underwear.

All-lace panties may be fine in the cold of winter, but they can start to cause problems in the heat of summer when “sweating is more common,” Montes said. Greves explained that wearing lace undies on special occasions might be fine, but “during a regular day or when you are working out, you may not want to risk frustrating your lady parts.”

The bottom line

Scott also recommends that people who are prone to infections or “vulvar or vaginal discomfort” wash their underwear with fragrance-free detergent and avoid fabric softeners. Fit is also important. Panties that are too tight “may increase risk of infection or irritation,” she said. Going commando at night is also helpful because it gives “your vulvar skin a break from coverage and reduces the risk of chronic irritation,” Scott explained.

According to Scott, some people will continue to develop vaginal infections or vulvar irritation even after wearing panties that have cotton crotches and developing other healthy habits. For these folks, “it is worth trying panties that are made of 100% cotton,” she said.

Greves says that the goal for most women “is not to think about their lady parts.” That means that “if a pair of beautiful lace panties” causes discomfort, pain, or an infection “then they may not be right for you,” she said. However, Greves encourages her patients to experiment and figure out what works for them.

Looking for moisture-absorbent underwear to keep you feeling fresh? Check out these picks below.

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Amazon

A six-pack of Hanes cotton briefs

Lightweight and breezy, these full-coverage cotton panties wick away moisture while staying in place for all-day wear. They’re made from pre-shrunk jersey cotton that keeps its shape through wear and washes.

Promising review: “Nice. Comfortable and true to size. They are very breathable in warm weather also. Would definitely recommend.” — Ilieana D.

Amazon

A four-pack of undies in a stay-cool fabrication

Offering a higher leg opening for a stylish silhouette, these full-coverage panties will become your daily favorite. Made from Fruit of the Loom’s “Coolblend” cotton-poly fabric, they promise to keep even the sweatiest nether-regions dry.

Promising review: “I’m an underwear snob! My dresser is filled with ones I had high hopes for! I’m soon traveling on a very long hike with very close accommodations and these are the answer to wicking moisture away. They are easy to give a quick wash and hang on the line inside or outside your tent. Super soft, very comfortable, and true to size. I was so excited after they arrived and came out of the wash the same way that I purchased a second package!” — Dana

Amazon

A three-pack of high-waisted microfiber undies

These highly-rated, high-waisted unmentionables are made from a breathable microfiber fabric that promises to wick moisture away. They’re equipped with a cotton gusset and waistband that’s designed to be gentle on your midsection.

Promising review: “These are a good deal for the price. Very affordable for smooth and comfortable everyday undies. I was mainly surprised that they really do breathe quite well for a smoother feeling material. I like that they don’t leave you sweaty like some shapewear products can. I’ve worn them on hot days and they stayed pretty cool.
The hold on these is minor- it’s not a totally suck you in tight feel like compression.
They are a great choice for under skirts/ dresses so that nothing shows when you move and bend around. They go up high so fit over a muffin top and smooth you out a little and they don’t ride up at all in the back so no wedgies at all all day long (even when moving and bending, picking up little kids, etc). These are a great postpartum choice for a problematic midsection that needs a little control. They do look like total ‘mom’ undies- meaning they are large and not the most romantic pair or look out there- but they are super functional. Overall I’d recommend them.” — GA Reviewer

Thinx

A pair of utra-thin micromesh period panties

Absorbent underwear line Thinx makes high-quality undies for folks that don’t like wearing tampons and pads or just want some extra absorbance for spotting or incontinence. Created from quick-drying and lightweight fabric, their beloved “air”-style period panties are ideal for days with a lighter to more moderate flow or to keep you cool and dry while traveling, working out or on long hot days.

Promising review: “True to size, breathable, and super comfortable. Feels like I’m wearing a regular pair of underwear” — Caroline D.

Amazon

A set of moisture-wicking thongs in a multitude of fun colors

Made from a quick-drying nylon blend, these tropical-hued thongs are perfect for anyone who wants minimal rear coverage. They’re also stretchy and tag-free for comfortable all-day wear.

Promising review: “Honestly, I bought these for vacation to Florida just for the moisture wicking. They were perfect for the hot humid weather. They have since become my favorite underwear. I have both the thongs and regular versions, and I’m buying more of each.” — Krystal

Amazon

Sweat-proof undies from a trusted athletic brand

New Balance has outfitted athletes for over 100 years, so we’re trusting that they know their stuff when it comes to sweat-ready goods. Reviewers love these tag-free, seamless nylon-blend undies, finding them to be comfortable for a variety of workouts.

Promising review: “Love these panties. I got them for working out, they stay put, moisture wicking, full-coverage, comfortable. Great for running, cycling and pilates. I wish I’d bought more because two months later they’re not available in my size and I haven’t found anything else I like as much!” — S. Davidson

Amazon

A six-pack of Fruit of the Loom breathable mesh undies

A cooling waistband and moisture-wicking breathable mesh make these undies perfect for hot and humid days. They stay in place and are extra breathable all over.

Promising review: “I’m almost 75 years old & have tried many types of underwear over the years, but by far these are the best ever! Like everyone else says, there is no comparison to any others. They are so comfortable & breathable, plus they don’t bunch up in the leg area. I just ordered my second package & got rid of all my old pairs.” — Mstikal Enchantments

Amazon

An eye-catching short in natural merino wool

While wool might seem like a counter-intuitive choice, soft and fine merino wool has moisture-wicking properties, in addition to being a non-synthetic and naturally anti-microbial material. Icebreaker’s “hot shorts” are popular with shoppers and come in a variety of colors, both festive and neutral.

Promising review: “Icebreaker seams outlast smart wool. I LIVE for wool underwear. A am a damp individual and also sweat a lot. These are so breathable and moisture wicking! And they do not get that smell that athletic moisture wicking fabrics do. After their first each they are very comfortable. I buy a medium and I wear a size 10/12 and they have a great fit! And no riding up on me. I do recommend washing them in a laundry bag so you can find them to keep them out of the dryer. These will last you years!” — Kreidner

Amazon

A four-pack of anti-chafe boxer briefs

For working out, wearing under skirts or dresses or wearing with pads or adult diapers, these breathable women’s briefs really do it all. They’re styled after men’s underwear but designed and cut for women, offering you support and stretch where you need it while keeping you cool and dry.

Promising review: “I am having a problem with incontinence and all the pads I am using especially the long overnight ones don’t fit properly with my regular high rise underwear. These underwear are great. They fit perfectly with all types of pads even those stupid wings that never seem to adhere to anything. These underwear are comfortable and breathable. The legs don’t ride up so that makes me very happy. The wide waistband is comfortable and not binding. I am so satisfied that I purchased more. I would recommend these to everyone.” — G-Ma

Amazon

A six-pack of cotton hipster panties

Comprised of 95% cotton and 5% spandex, these budget-friendly hipster-cut panties give you all the softness and breathability you need, while still offering a little stretch.

Promising review: “Living in Florida where swampa$$ is a real thing in the summer, these cotton underwear are wonderful for breathability in the nether region. They also don’t show panty lines. They aren’t going to score you sexy points but are functional, comfortable everyday underwear.” — Cynthia M

Amazon

A five-pack of high-waisted piped underwear

With eye-catching white piping, these high-waisted, super breathable stretchy panties give a cheeky nod to men’s “whitey tighties,” while still looking super feminine and cute. They’re supportive without bunching or pinching with a moisture-wicking generous cut, keeping your whole body covered and cool.

Promising review: “I love these underwear. Being plus size it’s hard to find full coverage and breathable underwear but these are perfect” — Amazon customer

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