Sleeping Naked Has An Unexpected Effect On Your Sexual Health

One might wonder what the big fuss is about when it comes to sleeping naked when all of us came out of our mother's wombs the same way. But clothing, whether it's pajamas to bed or professional suits for work, are such a big part of modern society that the idea of baring it all before getting under the covers to sleep, and not just for sex, can feel somewhat unconventional. 

But lots of people do it and prefer it to wearing something to bed. For starters, it's inspiration to get intimate with your partner. There's nothing quite like cozying up to your naked spouse and feeling a sense of desire for them. Even if you weren't planning to have sex, things can take an unexpected turn. Also, sleeping naked is known to bring down your body temperature a lot sooner and also keep it at a comfortable rate throughout the night, both of which are essential for falling asleep fast and staying asleep for longer. And getting quality sleep is associated with better mental health, a boosted metabolism, a good immune system, better focus and concentration, and the prevention of disease. A lack of sleep can do damage to your sex life, too. 

But snoozing in the nude can also influence your sexual health. For women, this could look like better vaginal health, and for men, it's about preserving your sperm count and keeping things less irritated down there. 

Vaginal yeast infections, also known as vaginal candidiasis, are quite common, affecting up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their life (per Mayo Clinic). They can be particularly irritating because they manifest as itching in the vaginal area, a burning sensation during sex or while peeing, vaginal discharge, soreness, and swelling of the vulva. 

When you sleep naked, you're giving your vagina a break from tight and moist underwear that can be a breeding ground for bacteria and put you at risk for yeast infections and urinary tract infections. You're basically giving your vagina some breathing space and much-needed air. Synthetic underwear, in particular, is problematic for yeast infections. Materials like nylon and spandex further inhibit air circulation and trap heat and moisture inside.

For men, sleeping in your birthday suit is about providing relief from chafing and irritation brought on by tight undergarments and also about preventing bacterial infections. More importantly, your sperm health might be influenced too. According to a 2018 study published in the journal Human Reproduction, involving 656 subjects, men who self-reported to mainly wearing boxers to bed had a 25% higher sperm concentration and 17% higher total sperm count than the men who wore tight underwear. What's even better than boxers? Sleeping naked. Closely tied to your sexual health is the health of your sex life and relationship — and sleeping naked can have an unexpected effect in those areas, too. 

Apart from the obvious theory that going to bed naked together could boost sexual arousal, having skin-to-skin contact with your significant other can increase levels of oxytocin, the love hormone. Oxytocin is the hormone that makes you feel connected to your partner by deepening your feeling of attachment to them. 

Additionally, according to Minneapolis-based sex therapist Jackie Golob (via Sleepopolis), there could be a link between positive body image and sleeping in the nude. "The more we are naked, the more we are exposed to being in our skin and vulnerable. Once we are more vulnerable or naked with ourselves, that's going to influence mental health, body shame, and limiting beliefs regarding sex, and my guess would be for the better," explained the expert. Positive body image, self-confidence, and being comfortable in your skin go a long way when it comes to a happy sex life. 

Despite these benefits, however, sleeping naked might not be for everyone. Perhaps you're worried about bodily secretions or getting too cold in the middle of the night, or you're just uncomfortable with the thought. Practising sleep hygiene habits like taking a warm bath before bed, avoiding technology use an hour before, and wearing loose, breathable clothing can ensure you reap the benefits of proper sleep and good sexual health. For those who want to try sleeping naked, make sure your room temperature is comfortably cool and keep a blanket nearby. Other effective tips include investing in good-quality bed linen and washing and changing it often.