Millions warned they are at risk of 'crotch rot' infection due to one mistake while putting on underwear

You might think the only way to put your underwear on ‘wrong’ would be the obvious, putting them on back-to-front. Or maybe if you’re having a really rough morning, putting your legs through the same or wrong holes.

But there’s a different, pretty common, mistake that could have bigger consequences than a bit of embarrassment.

That’s as a doctor warns millions are at risk of a gross (and also a little embarrassing) infection.

Dr Samuel Choudhury, a GP specialising in skincare, says people could face ‘crotch rot’ as a consequence of putting on their underwear in a common way.

This groin infection is caused by the same fungus that’s responsible for ringworm, tinea corporis and is also known as ‘jock itch’.

It's a common mistake to make. (Getty Stock)

And the doc explained how the infection can often spread to the genital and groin area through the feet.

In a video shared on social media, Dr Choudhury warned of just how common ‘foot fungus’ is, as he claimed 70 percent of people will get it ‘at least one in their life’.

So, he said: “If and when that time comes, this is the right way to wear your underwear so you don’t get jock itch.”

He went on to say that if you put on your undies while your feet are bare and you have foot fungus, you’re going to spread the infection due to it being so contagious.

“The underwear comes in contact with the rash,” Dr Choudhury explained. “It can carry the fungal spores all the way up to your groin.”

And while it’s such a simple way of causing yourself to get ‘crotch rot’, there’s a very simple way of avoiding it.

“You want to wear your socks first,” he continued. “This acts as a barrier so you can safely wear your underwear, so that now you can just focus on treating one area.”

It's common to get it on your feet. (Getty Stock)

The doctor added that those with a ‘persistent’ itch in their groin should think about the state of their feet.

Ringworm can appear anywhere on the body and the main symptom is a rash that may be scaly, dry, swollen or itchy. The NHS explains that it may look red or darker than the surrounding skin, depending on your skin tone.

Visit a pharmacist first if you think they have it as they can recommend the best antifungal medicine and they’ll tell you if they think you need to see a GP.

But if you do think you’ve got it on your feet, make sure to follow Dr Choudhury’s advice and pop your socks on to stop it getting onto your underwear.