Going commando: The rise, risks, and reasons behind the trend

Going commando—choosing not to wear underwear—has gained popularity among many young urban men and women in Dar es Salaam across the social divide.

While this choice might seem purely personal, it carries both health implications and social perceptions worth exploring, to some it is a turn on whereas to others it is a complete turn off.

For many, the decision to go commando is driven by a self-perceived comfort and freedom because without the constraints of underwear, some find greater ease in their daily activities.

Women speak

Many women have shared that the lack of elastic bands, straps and fabric can make clothing feel lighter and less restrictive, contributing to a sense of liberation.

“It’s about comfort, given the nature of the weather in Dar es Salaam,” says Rahma, a 30-year-old boutique owner in Sinza, Dar es Salaam.

“I feel more relaxed and less constrained without underwear, especially when I am wearing my jeans without the fear of exposing too much. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in how I feel throughout the day,” she says.

To Anna Mwasha, a 33-year-old sales executive in Mikocheni, when she wears her ‘dera’ (lose over flowing gown popular among coastal women) over the weekends while at home she does not see the need to were any underwear because she says it comes with some restrictions.

Our survey revealed that the decision to go commando often intersects with social perceptions and personal confidence. Reactions to this choice can vary widely.

For some women, going commando is a statement of confidence and self-empowerment. It can signify a rejection of traditional norms and an embrace of personal freedom. This act can be empowering, making a woman feel more in control of their own bodies and choices.

“I have my own choices to make, so it is not about what somebody else thinks. After all, who is there to inspect whether I am wearing underwear or not?” says Pili Rajab, a shop attendant in Tabata.

She however cautions that there lies the risk of a fashion mal-function citing one incident where a friend was left with an exposed ‘camel toe’ that caused whispers across the room.

“She was not aware of how her pants had left so little for imagination drawing all the lines,” says Pili amid bouts of laughter.

But then it is not just about knickers, there are some who detest the idea of wearing a bra too, because of the pain and discomfort that it comes with.

Alice Msemo is an accountant, she has always received negative comments for not wearing a bra, but she thinks she can deal with negativity because the pain at the back and shoulders, as a result of the straps digging in, is sometimes unbearable.

“Most women have dark spots on their backs because of wearing bras, but one the other side you have to deal with men ogling your chest area,” says Alice.

What men say

However, reactions from men and society at large can vary. Some men find the idea of a woman going commando exciting, associating it with freedom and sensuality.

For these individuals, the absence of underwear might symbolise a bold or adventurous spirit and a turn on of some sort.

“It really depends on where you see it from,” says James Matoi. “This kind of woman is ready for anything especially, if the setting is one of the night club and to me this is an invitation or some turn which doesn’t hurt at all,” he says.

On the flip side, others find the idea a complete put-off or uncomfortable, associating it with a lack of hygiene and modesty, a perspective often that reflects traditional views on propriety and personal grooming.

"It’s definitely a mixed bag," says David Karugaba, a 29-year-old marketing professional. "For some, it’s an attractive trait, suggesting confidence and a relaxed attitude. For others, it might be seen as too unconventional or even unsanitary."

The choice to go commando as other commentators have observed can also be influenced by cultural and psychological factors:

In some cultures, the norm of wearing underwear is strictly adhered to, while in others, the choice might be more accepted. Cultural expectations can shape how this choice is perceived and accepted.

“I know of some people who can never wear clothing that exposes their underwear lining (imprint) in public, so in a society like that not wearing one could indeed cause an uproar,” adds Karugaba.

Psychologically to some, going commando is a symbol of rebellion because it offers a sense of liberation and self-expression.

“It allows individuals to challenge societal norms and assert their autonomy over their own bodies.”

Men and commando

Women are not alone, men’s personal habits and preferences play a significant role. Some men simply prefer the feeling of not wearing underwear, considering it a more natural or liberating experience.

Others, out of cultural conditioning and practices, such as the Masaai and Samburu men, going commando is a normal practice that does not raise eyebrows.

Athuman Iddi says that men may choose to go commando because of the fashion or style of their clothing. For example, certain types of pants or shorts may be more comfortable or visually appealing without underwear.

“Without underwear, there is less chance of moisture being trapped between the skin and the fabric, which might reduce the risk of fungal infections or other moisture-related issues,” he says

But this, too, has a price, in some cases, going commando might lead to accidental exposure or embarrassment, especially in formal or professional settings.

Health considerations

Whereas going commando can offer comfort, just like many fashionable trends it also presents several health considerations to many women.

Health experts say that without the absorbent layer of underwear, there can be increased exposure to sweat and bodily fluids.

This could potentially lead to a higher risk of bacterial infections or irritation, particularly if one wears tight or non-breathable clothing. “Choosing breathable fabrics and maintaining good hygiene can mitigate these risks,” a gynaecologist at Muhimbili who preferred anonymity advises.

It is important to remember that the vagina is a self-cleaning organ. It produces up to 5ml of fluid per day and has a balanced microflora consisting of many different bacteria.

Direct contact between clothing and sensitive areas can lead to chafing or discomfort, especially during physical activities. “Therefore, opting for looser clothing and ensuring proper personal hygiene can help alleviate this issue,” says the gynaecologist.

For some women, not wearing underwear might increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the increased exposure to external bacteria. “Ensuring frequent washing and wearing clean, breathable clothing can reduce this risk,” adds the gynaecologist.

In men, the testes are the primary site of sperm production. They hang away from the body to achieve a 2°C-4°C cooler environment. Testicular temperature is so important that the body has its own means – the pampiniform plexus – to cool the arterial blood as it flows into the testes.

Some research has found that those who reported frequent wearing of boxer shorts had a higher sperm concentration than those who wore other types of underwear. Boxers, also demonstrated and maintained a reduced scrotal temperature.

However, men who undergo vasectomy are advised to wear tight fitting underwear for at least 48 hours and up to seven days post-operation. The tight fit helps support the testes, reducing their movement and the strain on the very thin layers of fascia and muscles that cover the testes.

Movement results in pain, as well as a risk of opening any wounds, and increases the chances of infection.

Though going commando can be seen as a bold or attractive choice, adding to a sense of freedom or rebellion, there are those who find it less appealing due to concerns about hygiene, modesty, or personal preferences.

Thongs, briefs, long johns, g-strings, boxers, trunks: there’s a bewildering array of undies out there. At the end of the day, it is not only the style that makes or breaks one’s perceptions on going commando.

The choice for the health of your nether regions should not only be influenced by fashion trends. It is crucial to consider and weigh all options available at your disposal to make an informed choice that will not hurt your health.