Periods can be uncomfortable, painful, awkward, annoying and just generally unpleasant. So if there’s even the smallest changes we can do to make that time of the month more bearable, we’re going to take it. Enter: period underwear.
While they’ve been around for the better part of two decades, period undies have come a long way. Catering to all different flows, we’ve pulled together all our favourite quick-absorbing panties that won’t leave you feeling like you’re wearing a grown-up nappy.
What does period underwear do?
A good pair of period underwear will replace a tampon, pad or menstrual cup. Looking and feeling like regular underwear, these undies have been specifically designed to discreetly hold menstrual blood without leaking onto your clothes. Most will be made from a moisture-wicking fabric so you won’t be able to feel any wetness while you’re wearing a pair.
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What are the benefits of wearing period underwear?
There are a whole heap of benefits that come with wearing period undies. The biggest one being it’s a great alternative to traditional period products. They fit like regular underwear, are comfortable and supportive, all while absorbing menstrual blood. Opting for period undies also means reducing (or eliminating) the use of single-use pads and tampons.
The truth about period underwear
We spoke to Justine Cusack Marketing Director over at Modibodi to dispel some myths around period underwear. Here’s what she said:
Myth: Wearing period underwear makes you feel like you’re wearing a nappy
Fact: “What surprises people the most when they first try Modibodi, is how the underwear actually feels. You’d imagine them to be bulky, heavy and essentially feel like you’re wearing a pad all day – but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Modibodi period underwear features a discreet 3mm absorbent gusset and feels and fits like normal underwear. The absorbency gusset is barely detectable when looking at it or wearing the garment – even in the moderate absorbency,” Justine says.
Myth: Leaks are still a major concern
Fact: “Modibodi’s leak proof protection undergarments feature a three-layer gusset, which works to keep you fresh, dry and protected from morning to night. The first protective layer works to absorb and wick moisture quickly and fights off any odour. The second layer locks away the moisture and fluid to ensure you always feel dry, and the third layer acts as a waterproof barrier to ensure no leakages occur,” she says.
Myth: Period underwear smells
Fact: “Modibodi’s patented technology features a merino wool absorbent gusset, which contains natural properties which combat moisture and odour. The unique structure of wool means that the exterior of the fibre creates a natural barrier against bacteria growth, whilst the interior of the fibre absorbs and locks away odour, keeping you dry and comfortable,” she adds.
The best period underwear for light flows
For a light to medium flow, this classic pair from Modibodi should be your go-to. The top layer of merino wool wicks away moisture and odours, the middle microfibre layer absorbs liquids while the bottom layer seals everything in for total protection.
Period undies that look and feel like a g-string? Yeah, these exist. Designed for the last days of your period when your flow is generally lighter, these are a great option when you don’t need as much protection but are still looking for that last line of defence.
Holding up to three tampons-worth without feeling like you’re basically wearing a nappy, the Bloody Comfy range from Bonds draws away moisture while keeping everything peachy down there. There’s no odour, doesn’t leak and above all, is super comfortable.
The best period underwear for heavy flows
Looking and feeling like a regular pair of underwear, Boody’s undies are super-soft and feature a high-waist and full coverage for extra comfort and support. The secret is in the four-layer protection fabrication that can suit a moderate to heavy flow – that’s up to three regular tampons!
Designed to accommodate heavier absorbency, these 5-star undies will make you forget that you’re even wearing period undies. They look and feel like regular panties, except of course reinforced gusset and leak-proof barriers for up to eight hours of wear.
The most comfortable period underwear
Available in sizes XS through to 4XL, Thinx boasts 12 hour protection with these period undies. They’re soft to the touch, will stretch and move with you and feature four-layers of leak-proof protection and side barriers to ensure nothing budges.
Offering medium to heavy protection, these super-soft cotton undies are thick and supportive while still providing plenty of comfort. The four layers wicks away moisture while holding up to three to four tampons. Oh and the price tag isn’t bad either.
How do I choose period underwear?
A great starting point for choosing the right pair of period underwear is your type of flow. Most brands will cater to light, medium and heavier flows. You can also look at things you would look for in your everyday underwear such as fit, shape, colour and fabrication. Choose comfort and security above everything else.
How many period undies should I buy?
It is recommended to change your period undies every 8-12 hours however some suggest every 4 hours. Use your own discretion and do what feels most comfortable for you. Generally speaking, you may want 1-2 pairs of underwear for each day of your period or less if you’re wearing them alongside other period products.
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