What do patients wear under hospital gowns?

September 23, 2025 •

4 min read

A 2014 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that many patients could wear their own clothes, but rarely did so. When considering a hospital stay or procedure, the question of what do patients wear under hospital gowns? is common, and the answer is not always straightforward. This authoritative guide details the factors that determine patient attire, from standard underwear to nothing at all, ensuring you are well-informed for your next visit.

Quick Summary

Most patients are permitted to wear their own underwear under a hospital gown, though this depends entirely on the specific medical procedure and level of access needed by staff. For surgeries or certain examinations, patients may be required to remove all clothing, including undergarments, to ensure safety and hygiene. The medical team will always provide clear instructions based on the situation.

Key Points

Depends on the procedure: What you wear under a hospital gown is determined by the specific medical procedure or examination you are undergoing.
Underwear is often allowed: For many non-invasive exams or hospital stays, you can wear your own standard underwear unless instructed otherwise.
All clothes off for surgery: For most surgeries, you will need to remove all clothing and jewelry, including underwear, for sterility and safety reasons.
Metal is a concern: Procedures involving imaging, like MRIs, require removing any clothing with metal components.
It's okay to ask: If you are unsure about the attire requirements, always ask a nurse or doctor for clarification to ensure you are following the correct protocol.

Understanding Hospital Attire: More Than Just a Gown

The hospital gown is a ubiquitous symbol of medical care, but its use and what is worn underneath are dictated by a range of factors beyond simple modesty. For many routine examinations or appointments, the gown serves as a practical, easily removable garment. However, for more invasive procedures like surgery or specific diagnostic tests, the protocol changes significantly to prioritize patient safety, hygiene, and accessibility for medical staff. Knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety and ensure you follow instructions correctly.

General Outpatient and Inpatient Stays

For non-invasive appointments, like a standard check-up or a short-term inpatient stay not involving surgery, the rules for undergarments are often more lenient. The medical staff will typically explain the requirements, and in most cases, patients are allowed to wear their own standard underwear underneath the hospital gown. The primary purpose is to maintain patient dignity and comfort while still allowing easy access to the body if necessary.

Key considerations during a general stay:

Comfort is key: Choose comfortable, breathable, and loose-fitting undergarments. This is especially important for patients who will be confined to bed for a period.
Your own clothes: In many cases, if a procedure is minor and doesn't require full access, you may not need a gown at all. The medical team will advise you if your own clothes are acceptable.
Ask for a second gown: If the standard-issue gown leaves you feeling exposed, you can always ask for a second one to wear like a robe or jacket to provide extra coverage.

The Rules for Surgical Procedures

Surgery requires stricter protocols due to the need for a sterile environment and uninterrupted access to the surgical site. For most surgical procedures requiring general anesthesia, patients are asked to remove all clothing, including undergarments and jewelry. This is not only for hygiene but also for safety, as undergarments and bras with underwires can interfere with equipment or pose a fire hazard in the presence of certain medical instruments.

Reasons for nudity during surgery:

Surgical field: To ensure the surgical area is kept completely sterile.
Risk prevention: To avoid materials like metal, elastic, or certain fabrics from causing issues with electrocautery or other equipment.
Emergency access: To allow quick access to vital areas in case of an emergency.
Catheterization: Certain surgeries may require a catheter, making undergarments impractical or obstructive.

Other Specific Medical Procedures

Beyond general stays and surgery, many other medical tests and procedures have their own specific attire rules. It is always best to listen carefully to the medical staff's instructions, as they vary widely.

Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy requires the patient to wear a specific type of gown that allows access to the lower half of the body. Underwear and pants must be removed.
MRI or X-ray: Because metal can interfere with imaging, you will often be asked to remove all clothing containing metal, such as zippers or underwire bras, and wear a gown. In some cases, a patient can wear their own clothes if they are entirely metal-free.
Labor and delivery: The rules for expectant mothers can be flexible initially, but a gown is required for the delivery itself. Some hospitals offer special maternity gowns designed for comfort and accessibility.
Orthopedic procedures: For a procedure on an arm or leg, you may be able to wear your own clothes on the unaffected side of your body. For example, a patient having knee surgery might be able to keep their shirt on.

Comparison Table: Attire by Hospital Scenario


Scenario	Undergarments Allowed?	Special Instructions	Primary Reason
Routine Check-up	Yes, typically	Minimal disrobing for specific access	Easy access for examination
Overnight Stay (No Surgery)	Yes, unless specified	Comfortable, breathable underwear	Patient comfort and dignity
General Surgery	No, must be removed	All clothing, jewelry, piercings off	Sterility, safety, emergency access
MRI/X-ray Scan	Depends on metal content	All metal objects must be removed	Avoid interference with imaging
Colonoscopy	No	Specific gown type provided	Accessibility for lower body procedure
Labor & Delivery	Varies, usually removed	Specific maternity gowns often provided	Accessibility for delivery

The Role of Communication and Dignity

Hospitals are increasingly aware of the importance of patient dignity and comfort. If you are ever unsure about what to wear or feel uncomfortable, it is always appropriate to ask a nurse or doctor for clarification. Many hospitals have adopted policies to be more mindful of patient needs, sometimes offering a second gown for more coverage or allowing personal clothing when medically safe.

Healthcare staff are trained to prioritize a patient's emotional well-being alongside their physical health. Addressing concerns about modesty is a normal part of their job. They can provide specific information about your procedure and help you feel as comfortable as possible during your stay.

Conclusion: Always Follow Medical Guidance

Ultimately, what do patients wear under hospital gowns? comes down to the specifics of the situation. While most outpatient and general inpatient scenarios allow for standard underwear, surgical and invasive procedures require the removal of all clothing for safety and sterility. The most important takeaway is to always follow the precise instructions given by your medical care team. By communicating your concerns and understanding the reasons behind the rules, you can feel more in control and prepared for your time in the hospital. For more information on patient care and safety, a resource like The Joint Commission can be useful. Visit The Joint Commission website for patient safety guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not always. For general exams or non-surgical stays, you can usually keep your underwear on. However, for surgery or procedures requiring access to your lower body, you will be asked to remove all undergarments.

For routine stays or general recovery, many hospitals allow you to wear your own pajamas. Always check with a nurse or doctor, as certain procedures might require you to be in a hospital gown for easier access.

For surgery, you will be given a hospital gown and instructed to remove all your personal clothing, including underwear, bras, and jewelry, to maintain a sterile and safe environment.

Hospital gowns are designed to open in the back to provide medical staff with easy access to your body for examinations, IV lines, or other procedures, especially if you are in bed.

For routine exams, a sports bra may be fine. However, for surgery, you will likely be asked to remove it, especially if it contains any metal components. A non-wire bra is preferable if allowed.

Yes, many hospitals will provide a second gown to be worn like a robe, which can significantly increase your comfort and privacy. You can and should ask if you feel exposed.

You will be asked to remove all jewelry and piercings before any surgery or MRI scan to prevent safety risks. It's best to leave valuables at home.