3:08pm UK, Tuesday May 31, 2005

They may be good for getting rid of unsightly visible panty lines - but German experts are warning G-strings are bad for women's health.

They are even calling for the wispy knickers to be banned, following an "enormous" increase in patients suffering genital inflammation.

180 thong g-string model

Sexy but unhealthy

Dr Thomas Gent, of the Association of Gynaecologists in Hamburg, told the Sun that "friction" caused by the string section is behind it all.

"G-strings can abrade and injure the sensitive skin around the genital area - especially if they are too tight or made with badly stitched material," he said.

He added the harm caused "can aid the spread of bacteria and cause fungal infections".

But British women are increasingly following the example of Bridget Jones - and plumping for bigger knickers.

A spokesman for high street retailer H&M said: "The trend is turning to comfortable hot-pants and slips."