Heat Wave Drives Ghanaian Women Away From Underwear, Worries Retailers

Comfort Over Convention as Trend Spreads

A growing number of Ghanaian women are ditching underwear in response to intense heat waves sweeping across the country, citing both comfort and health reasons. Traders and workers across Accra and Kumasi report that the combination of multiple layers of clothing in high temperatures creates discomfort and potential health risks, prompting them to abandon the garment entirely.

Faustina Boateng, a trader at Ayigya, revealed she has not worn underwear for over a decade. "I can't wear panties, underwear, and jeans together—it is too much of a bother for me," she explained, noting that the financial pressures of daily life make comfort a priority. Similarly, Nana Adwoa, an accessories vendor in Kumasi, wears underwear only during her menstrual cycle, preferring shorts during working hours to avoid heat-related discomfort.

Market Impact and Retail Concerns

The shift is hitting retailers hard. Lingerie vendor Afia Yeboah reported a dramatic decline in sales, struggling to sell even three items monthly compared to selling dozens previously. "It has been two weeks since I came from my hometown and no one has purchased a single panty," she lamented, highlighting the financial strain on small business owners.

Medical Perspective

Dr Baffour Opoku Junior, a gynaecologist at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, emphasises that underwear serves important protective functions, particularly during menstruation and discharge. However, he acknowledges that tight synthetic materials can cause irritation and fungal infections. "The primary function of underwear is to offer direct protection for the skin and intimate areas from the external environment," he noted, recommending cotton options over nylon to reduce health risks.

Medical advice suggests that while forgoing underwear at home or during sleep is acceptable, cotton garments remain preferable when worn to minimise infection risk.