The Brief Truth: Hidden Health Risks in Men's Underwear
Recent research shows that synthetic underwear can affect circulation, temperature regulation, testosterone levels, and, especially, fertility. Here’s what men should know.
Lydia Dupree is a degreed biochemist and author of peer-reviewed articles in her field. She dives deep into the literature to explore the impact the fashion industry has on our health and environment, and shows how to easily implement sustainable fashion into our lives.
By
Lydia Dupree
6
minute read
The Toxic Impacts of Underwear
Polyester Does *What* To Sperm?
Over 60% of the clothing produced worldwide is made from synthetic fibers — mainly petrochemical-based (aka plastic-based) — with underwear typically comprising polyester and added spandex to provide the necessary stretch.
Wearing plastic is just as unattractive as it sounds, but did you know polyester has even been tested as a male contraceptive?
Two buzzy studies causing discourse in the sustainable fashion space recently focus on polyester as a contraceptive and its impact on sperm health (sounds crazy, right? Keep reading).
In the first study, 14 men wore a polyester sling (similar to wearing polyester underwear) for 12 months.
The findings showed: - All men in the study were temporarily infertile - Sperm levels lowered to 0 - Testicular shrinkage - No pregnancies
However, once they stopped wearing this polyester piece, sperm levels went back up to their pre-test levels.
The findings suggest: - The polyester sling created an electrostatic field across the body, causing friction, potentially disrupting testicular function - Polyester blocks airflow, resulting in a disordered ability to regulate temperature (aka increasing temperature), impairing sperm production
The second study divided 21 men into 3 equal groups wearing underpants made of 100% polyester, 100% cotton, and a 50:50% polyester: cotton mixture, and measured electrostatic potentials generated on the surface of the underwear area.
No electrostatic potentials were detected on the cotton underpants. The polyester pants showed the highest potentials, while the mixed polyester-cotton pants produced less than half the levels of 100% polyester. The researchers concluded that the accumulated electrostatic charges on the pants were due to the friction of the pants with the skin, and that “eventually, an ‘electrostatic field’ is produced traversing the scrotal contents and may disturb the testicles and/or epididymis leading to disordered spermatogenesis”. Translation: this study also suggests a correlation between an electrostatic potential and decreased sperm health (and therefore, fertility).
Both studies warrant further investigation and replication; however, the correlation between negative male health and polyester is not one to be ignored. If polyester can do this to sperm count, health, and testicular size, how else is it harming your body?
Fabric type is just the first layer in the horror story of modern boxers. The problem is enhanced by the chemicals needed to turn fossil fuels into fiber.
These chemicals range from plasticizers like Bisphenol-A (BPA) and topical additives like per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), both of which are linked to a variety of negative health implications.
To start, BPA, a hormone-disrupting chemical, is used in clothing development to improve their lifespan, provide moisture-wicking and anti-static properties, and help fix dyes to the fabric. As an endocrine disruptor, BPA has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, various cancers (such as prostate and colon), decreased fertility, decreased testosterone, and erectile dysfunction.
PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they never break down in nature and will remain present in the human body. This chemical treatment is used to process fibers to be water- and stain-resistant. Studies have shown that PFAS may interfere with the body’s natural hormones, reduce immune responses (including reduced response to vaccines), increase the risk of prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers, disrupt lipid regulation, which leads to an increase in cholesterol levels, and have negative reproductive effects such as decreased fertility. A new study even shows that PFAS can be absorbed through human skin.
If only toxin-treated clothing came with a disclaimer!
Needless to say, it is time to ditch polyester underwear soaked in toxins. Instead, opt for certified organic, plant-based fibers such as cotton treated with low-impact dyes and treatments.
Organic cotton is superior to polyester in multiple ways.
Polyester is hydrophobic, pushing moisture away from the fabric closer to the skin, providing an environment for bacteria to grow. This can increase breakouts and odor. Cotton is hydrophilic, meaning it naturally absorbs moisture, pulling moisture away from the skin.
Polyester is tightly woven, trapping heat. Cotton is highly breathable, allowing for air flow and circulation. This makes it a great choice for sensitive skin (and sensitive areas, such as underwear).
Polyester is plastic-based and needs toxic chemicals (discussed above) to make it into a fabric. Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides and herbicides, and (of course) does not need plasticizers in processing.
Organic cotton is also naturally hypoallergenic, removing the risk of allergic reactions to the fabric. It is a naturally breathable and moisture-wicking fabric, making it perfect for exercise and daily movement, as it allows the body to stay cool.
The use of organic cotton is a healthier option for the planet. Compared to conventional cotton, organic farming practices lower water usage, focus on soil health, and decrease the environmental pollution that artificial fertilizers and synthetic pesticides can cause in the soil, water, and air.
Lastly, organic cotton is a high-quality fiber, meaning that it will last for years to come in your wardrobe, posing a positive benefit both monetarily and in lowering the waste pollution associated with frequent clothing disposal.
This is where Gotchies comes in. Gotchies is a healthy underwear brand that designs organic cotton underwear for men.
What makes them different from other brands? They hold the OEKO-TEX Standard-100 certification (the gold standard for non-toxicity in the industry), which means the dyes and treatments used are certified non-toxic. Their cotton is certified organic by GOTS, and their pieces include a (highly rated!) organic cotton-wrapped waistband for optimized comfort.
You can pick from two styles: boxers or briefs.
Gotchies Organic Cotton Boxer Briefs are made from 95% GOTS certified organic cotton and 5% BPA-free elastane (for stretch). Their design is optimized for everything from lounging to lifting, without bunching or riding up. Unlike most brands, their waistband is wrapped in organic cotton for maximum comfort and health. The briefs come in three colors: black, blue, or gray.
Gotchies Organic Cotton Boxersare made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton, with their signature organic cotton wrapped waistband, and come in black. Simple, comfortable, non-toxic.
Not sure which to try out first? Check out their Closet Clean Out Pack for an easy overhaul of your top drawer.
The Gotchies’ mission is simple: challenge the industry, prioritize health, and provide a better choice for everyone.
Underwear is one of the simplest switches to make in your health journey, with huge impacts. It’s a great place to start! Join the community and see more about Gotchies here. Check out their site to shop and socials @getgotchies to join the mission of healthy fashion.
April 15, 2025
Organic Cotton Saves Water
Most people don’t realize the hidden risks of synthetic underwear—harsh chemicals, hormone disruption, and environmental harm. By switching to organic cotton, you can protect your health, enjoy greater comfort, and support a cleaner, more sustainable future.
By
Vince Speroni
3
minute read
At Gotchies, we call ourselves "The Healthy Underwear Company," which means we put in the time and effort to build not only organic underwear but also GOTS and OEKO TEX Standard-100 certified organic underwear.
Well, what does this actually mean?
By now, you're probably aware of some of the alarming effects that synthetic materials and conventional cotton can cause to our personal health. If not, please read through some of our other blogs here.
Personal health is a clear motivator for wearing organic cotton underwear. But there’s a whole other advantage to it: The Environmental Advantage.
When we say Gotchies is "The Healthy Underwear Company," we do literally mean the health of your testicles, but we are also referring to the health of the world.
There are many environmental factors that make organic cotton superior to conventional cotton, such as limiting the use of pesticides, enhancing soil health, and, of course, water conservation.
For the rest of this blog, I’m going to dive into the component of water waste.
Water Use in Cotton Farming: Conventional vs. Organic
Water use in cotton farming is a major environmental concern, especially in conventional cotton production. Cotton is a thirsty crop, and conventional farming methods often require vast amounts of water, sometimes in regions already suffering from water scarcity.
In fact, according to the Water Footprint Network, it can take up to 2,700 liters of water to produce just one cotton t-shirt (source: Water Footprint Network). This figure includes the water required to grow the cotton itself, as well as the water needed for processing and manufacturing the final garment.
Water usage is especially concerning in areas that rely heavily on irrigation. Conventional cotton farms often use outdated irrigation systems that waste water or tap into unsustainable sources. This can lead to the depletion of valuable water resources, particularly in dry regions like parts of India, the U.S., and Central Asia, where large-scale cotton production is common.
The Water Footprint: A Comparative Look
Here’s a closer look at the water consumption difference between conventional and organic cotton: - Conventional Cotton: Conventional cotton farming uses vast amounts of water, often requiring large-scale irrigation systems. On average, it takes around 2,700 liters of water to produce just one t-shirt. In some water-scarce areas, this demand can result in unsustainable practices, including the draining of rivers, aquifers, and wetlands.
- Organic Cotton: Organic cotton farming can use up to 50% less water than conventional cotton farming. By focusing on soil health and avoiding harmful chemicals, organic farms enhance water retention and reduce runoff. Moreover, organic cotton farms are typically located in areas with better access to rain-fed water systems, reducing the need for irrigation.
Why Gotchies Chose the Best
Choosing organic cotton doesn’t just mean choosing a healthier option for your skin; it’s a choice for the planet. By supporting organic cotton, we reduce the overall water footprint of the cotton industry and help shift towards more sustainable farming practices.
At Gotchies, we’re proud to offer products that not only take care of your well-being but also contribute to the health of the environment. Our GOTS and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifications ensure that our organic cotton underwear is produced under the strictest environmental and social guidelines, making it the most eco-friendly choice for both you and the planet.
Polyester underwear doesn’t just trap heat—it also builds up electrostatic charges that may impact male fertility. Studies suggest these charges could interfere with physiological functions, raising concerns about their long-term effects.
By
Kiavash Seraj
4
minute read
The Experiment
A study examined the electrostatic potentials generated on the scrotal area when wearing different fabrics. 21 men were divided into three groups, each wearing underwear made of either 100% polyester, 100% cotton, or a 50/50 polyester-cotton blend. Researchers measured the electrostatic charges on the fabric and skin using a kilovoltmeter.
Key Findings: - Cotton produced no electrostatic charges. - Polyester generated the highest electrostatic potential (average 338.9V/cm²), while the polyester-cotton blend had lower but still significant levels (148.3V/cm²).
- Higher electrostatic charges were observed during the day due to increased temperature.
This charge accumulation results from friction between the fabric and skin, creating an electrostatic field that penetrates the scrotum. Scientists suggest that this could disrupt testicular function and sperm production, posing potential risks to male fertility.
This study highlights yet another reason to choose natural fabrics like organic cotton over synthetic materials. Polyester-based underwear doesn’t just trap heat—it may also expose sensitive areas to electrostatic stress, with long-term health implications.
Analysis
Basically, we know that polyester underwear is a problem thanks to studies that have isolated the fabric factor and measured its impact on sperm count, concentration, motility, and abnormality. However, while electrostatic potential has been measured on the skin, it's currently just a correlation. That said, I highly doubt that hundreds of volts of potential energy on your balls are harmless. Interestingly, there are independent studies on the effects of these potentials on the body as a whole—but not specifically on fertility.
One study even claims that "virtually all physiological functions, mood, and behavior" may be affected by charges left on the skin. The conclusion here is straightforward: polyester underwear has measurable negative effects on men's fertility. The only catch? We’re not yet certain about the exact mechanism behind this deterioration.
That being said, we know the symptoms of polyester exposure, one of which is electrostatic residue on the skin—including the scrotum when it comes to underwear. Meanwhile, independent research suggests that electrostatic potentials and charges on the skin—regardless of the specific body region—can impact various physiological functions.2
There’s still much more research to be done, but one thing is certain: cotton underpants play no part in the love triangle between polyester, infertility, and electrostatic potentials. Time and time again, cotton proves to be one of, if not the best, fabrics for supporting healthy hormones and male fertility.
Citations
1. Shafik, A., Ibrahim, I. H., & el-Sayed, E. M. (1992). Effect of different types of textile fabric on spermatogenesis. I. Electrostatic potentials generated on surface of human scrotum by wearing different types of fabric. Andrologia, 24(3), 145–147. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0272.1992.tb02628.x
2. Sher L. (2000). Effects of electrostatic potentials generated on the surface of the skin by wearing synthetic and semisynthetic fabrics on physical condition, mood and behavior: role of acupuncture points. Medical hypotheses, 54(3), 511–512. https://doi.org/10.1054/mehy.1999.0854
February 10, 2025
Cotton vs. Synthetic
Most people don’t realize the hidden risks of synthetic underwear—harsh chemicals, hormone disruption, and environmental harm. By switching to organic cotton, you can protect your health, enjoy greater comfort, and support a cleaner, more sustainable future.
By
Jack Selman
3
minute read
Be the change. Switching from underwear made with synthetic materials to underwear made with organic cotton offers numerous benefits for both personal health and the environment. Unlike synthetic fabrics, which are often treated with harsh chemicals and made from petroleum-based fibers, organic cotton is grown without toxic pesticides and processed with minimal chemical exposure. This allows for a safer, more breathable option – especially for those with sensitive skin or a history of discomfort. Additionally, organic cotton is biodegradable and has a lower environmental impact, reducing pollution and promoting sustainable farming practices. By choosing organic cotton underwear, you can enjoy greater health, greater comfort, and support an eco-friendly production process.
Underwear made with synthetic materials often ends up in the hands of most of the population, who, unknowingly, wear them every day. While this may seem normal, it’s actually quite harmful. A good starting point is to ask a question like this: if a pair of underwear is created using materials that are doused in toxic chemicals, then where do those chemicals go once the underwear is ready for use? That’s right – nowhere. Those very chemicals used for “efficient” and “cost-effective” production, stay put, embedding themselves in the underwear. In turn, wearing the underwear repeatedly results in the body absorbing these chemicals through constant friction. According to studies, this absorption leads to skin conditions and erroneous or diminished hormone production.
Organic cotton is the peacemaker in a dilemma such as this one. When underwear is carefully curated, with a natural, untreated material like organic cotton, the detriments mentioned above are avoided. The skin and body work congruently with the organic cotton to allow the user maximum comfort and ease the mind of potential long-term health issues such as infertility and low hormone production. Furthermore, the production of organic cotton requires 85% less water than cotton mixed with synthetic materials and chemicals. By making the switch, the mind, body, and planet are all preserved.
Explore the Gotchies website to see how you can start saving today! Check out more articles in this section to stay informed and learn how to change your life.
Citations
Singh, Z. (2017, January). (PDF) toxicity of synthetic fibres and human health (open access). Toxicity of Synthetic Fibres and Human Health. Zimmerman, A. (2022, October 5). Organic cotton: How does it compare to other sustainable materials?. Green Story.
April 24, 2025
Pesticides, Sperm Health, and Your Underwear: What You Need to Know
If you care about your health, your testosterone levels, and maybe even the idea of having kids one day, this is something you’ll want to read.
By
Vince Speroni
4
minute read
A groundbreaking study by environmental and reproductive epidemiologist Dr. Shanna Swan, titled “Semen Quality in Fertile US Men in Relation to Geographical Area and Pesticide Exposure,” uncovered something deeply concerning: men exposed to high levels of pesticides are seeing a significant decline in sperm quality.
The study looked at non-smoking men aged 21 to 40 from four different states—Missouri, California, Minnesota, and New York—to get a clear picture of how location and environment affect reproductive health.
The Results? Striking.
Men from agriculture-heavy, pesticide-rich areas like Missouri had markedly lower semen quality than their peers in other regions. But what does this have to do with your underwear?
Turns out, one of the most pesticide-intensive crops out there is cotton—yes, the same stuff that ends up in most of the underwear you buy. That means your everyday essentials could be exposing you to pesticide residue… right where it matters most.
Here’s the good news: organic cotton doesn’t rely on harmful pesticides. And when it’s GOTS Certified Organic Cotton (that’s the gold standard, by the way), you can trust that it’s clean, safe, and grown with your health in mind.
At Gotchies, we take this seriously. That’s why every pair of underwear we make is crafted using GOTS Certified Organic Cotton. It’s our way of making sure that what touches your skin—especially in sensitive areas—is not only comfortable but actually beneficial for your health.
Your body deserves better. So why not choose better? ✅ Better cotton ✅ Fewer chemicals ✅ Healthier you
Check out getgotchies.com (The Healthy Underwear Company) to learn more about how organic cotton can support your health and why it’s time to upgrade your underwear game.
Research into contraceptives for men have been conducted using polyester. While studies were done with the goal of creating a safe method for men seeking contraceptive methods, it has provided a lot of insight into the polyester industry and how underwear material is a more significant factor than we thought.
By
Kiavash Seraj
3
minute read
The Experiment
Researchers studied the contraceptive effects of a polyester scrotal sling (basically a jockstrap) on 14 men over 12 months. The men wore the sling continuously, while researchers monitored their sperm count, testicular size, temperature changes, and hormone levels. Their female partners used contraceptives until the men became completely sperm-free (azoospermic), which took an average of about 140 days.
During this period, testicular volume decreased, and scrotal temperature increased, but hormone levels remained unchanged. The polyester material also generated electrostatic charges, which may have contributed to the effect. No pregnancies occurred.
After stopping use, sperm counts gradually returned to normal within about 157 days, and couples who wanted to conceive were successful. The study concluded that the polyester sling effectively and reversibly reduces sperm count through a combination of increased heat and electrostatic effects.
Analysis
An experiment meant to safely find a contraceptive for men has, in turn, provided us today with shocking details about the effects of polyester underwear. What's fascinating about this study is that it was conducted in 1992... that's 33 years ago (none of Gotchies' founders were even born). It doesn’t seem obvious to us that this information regarding the dangers of polyester was, in some way, hidden. If you search "polyester effects on fertility" in Google, you will see the study referenced on the first page.
However, what we would argue is that the market and big underwear/clothing companies are diverting customers’ attention away from the most important detail about their products: the material. By focusing solely on comfort and a product’s resilience for highly active customers, they have shifted the conversation away from health concerns. This emphasis has become the core of their pitches and advertisements. However, you don’t need to sacrifice one for the other—a product can be comfortable, resilient, and healthy all at once.
These companies are simply cutting corners and being disingenuous for one reason: maximizing profits while minimizing costs. When there’s a will, there’s a way, and at Gotchies, we've done our best to create a reality where underpants can be healthy, comfortable, and ready for fitness (also environmentally friendly too, but we’ll get more into that in another blog).
Citations
Shafik A. (1992). Contraceptive efficacy of polyester-induced azoospermia in normal men. Contraception, 45(5), 439–451. https://doi.org/10.1016/0010-7824(92)90157-o2.
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