Women’s underwear has long held a small mystery that many are only now beginning to understand—the purpose of that extra piece of fabric sewn into the crotch area.

At last, the confusion is being cleared up. Like many others, I’ve worn underwear all my life without ever stopping to wonder why that extra layer—often referred to as a “gusset”—is there.

Was it designed to secretly hold tampons or lipstick? Or maybe to provide extra padding for added comfort while sitting?

For years, it seemed like only the “underwear gods” had the answer. Curious minds turned to social media to finally get to the bottom of this puzzling detail.

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?