Women’s underwear has contained a mystery since the dawn of time, and people are now just learning about the purpose of the extra layer of fabric in their drawers.
Finally, we have answers. Having worn knickers since I was a baby, I feel like I’m not the only one who never realized just exactly why underwear contains the additional pouch that is always sewn into the crotch area.
Is it to be popped open so we can store tampons and lipstick? Or is it a little extra cushioning so we’re not uncomfortable when we sit down?
Until now, it was a mystery that only the underwear gods could answer – and many took to social media to have their questions answered.
Someone on X asked: “I’ve always wondered why underwear has these holes???”
Meanwhile, another said: “Don’t listen to the people saying it’s for ‘reinforcement’ or some rubbish.
However, nobody could have expected the true reason.
It doesn’t matter if it’s a thong, G-string, Brazilian, panties or briefs- they’ve all for that little pocket sewn in. And apparently, it’s called a gusset (ew).
Sweeping aside the name of it, which sounds like a drainpipe, its gusset is usually made of cotton and is supposed to support hygiene.
This online user was spot on with their explanation, saying: “The extra piece of fabric is called a gusset, and it’s there to reinforce the crotch area.
“It makes the piece more durable and stops moisture from seeping through. You could topstitch so there’s no hole, but it’s not really necessary and can cause irritation.”
According to Cheeky Wipes, it also serves a few purposes.
They state that a gusset is used to keep the person cool, prevent sweating, and stop discharge from the vagina from damaging your trousers.
It also allows your vulva to breathe, too.
Underwear company Leonisa also pointed out that while men’s underwear may also have this feature, it’s ‘far more common’ in women’s pants.
“Gussets can be found in just about every type of underwear for women, from boy-shorts, to bikini panties, to thongs.”
“The panty gusset serves several purposes. For one, the extra layer of fabric reinforces the underwear in the crotch area, which is often the narrowest part of the underwear,” their website states.
“This prolongs the life of the underwear and helps it to last longer. The extra layer of fabric also helps catch discharge, sweat and other things, keeping you cool and dry as you go about your day.”
The more you know, eh?
