13 Reasons Why You Should switch to Period Panties
Growing up, many of us were initiated into the period club with two options: tampons or pads. Pads, often bulky, felt like wearing a diaper while tampons seemed terrifying. Luckily, girls today have a few more options—options that even those of us who have been menstruating for decades are eager to try.
While our comfort can benefit from these new options, the real benefactor of period products rising in popularity is Mother Nature. Sustainable options such as menstrual cups and period panties eradicate the idea that period products are, by nature, wasteful, by providing us reusable menstruation management.
While many menstruators swear by the cup, it can take a few tries to figure it out. Period panty, however, is as simple as it sounds and an excellent alternative to period care.
What is period panty?
Period panties look and feel just like normal panties. The only difference with period panties is that they have special high absorbency layers that absorb blood and help prevent blood from seeping through. You won’t have to deal with the bulky discomfort that comes with using pads, though period panties absorb blood similarly. Period panty is meant to soak up menstrual blood while still keeping you as dry and comfortable as possible.
Why should I try period panties?
While period panties can be a stand-alone option—Be Me’s panty, for example, absorbs up to three extra large sanitary pads worth of blood—many menstruators also use period panties as a backup with a tampon or cup for heavier flow days. Whether you have a light flow and are looking for a sustainable replacement to tampons or pads or you’re worried about bleeding through your sheets at night on heavier flow days, period panties may be the answer you’ve been looking for. On top of that, period panties are washable and reusable—imagine having an entire cycle without throwing anything in the trash! Here are just some of the reasons why period panty is quickly rising as a favorite period product.
1. Good backup for heavy flows:
Period panty is super-absorbent, and typically has multiple layers to help protect against leaks. If your flow requires multiple large or extra large sanitary pads per day, you won’t want to wear period panty alone for an extended period of time; however, it may be the peace of mind backup you need if you ever worry about leaks or getting through that one hour meeting when you really need to change your tampon.
2. A more sustainable option:
All the pads, tampons, and liners we go through in a lifetime will end up in a landfill—for the average menstruator, that’s about 9,000 period products over the course of your lifetime. If cutting back on waste and helping the environment is important to you (as it should be!), then you might want to consider switching to period panties.
3. Convenient for irregular cycles:
For those of us with irregular cycles, period panties can be used on the days leading up to your period, just in case it arrives unexpectedly when you’re busy and want to avoid constantly running to the bathroom to check. Similarly, it’s a great option for the last days of your period, if you’ve ever had an accident after thinking (wishing?) your period was over.
4. Won’t irritate your vagina:
If you experience vaginal discomfort, pain, and/or dryness or have a condition that makes your vagina sensitive or allergic to other forms of period care, period panties might be just what you need. Because period panties are designed to be breathable and do not require anything being inserted into the vagina, it shouldn’t cause vaginal irritation or dryness for most people.
5. Saves you money:
While the price tag on a pair of period panties is higher than a pack of pads, the majority of period panties are designed to last for around 2-3 years if cared for properly…you do the math! In order to make your period panties last as long as possible, rinse them in the sink after use, hand wash them in cold water, and hang them to try so they’re ready to go for next month.
6. Keeps you comfortable and confident:
Period panty is great for achieving maximum comfort while still keeping you dry and clean. You can wear period panties while exercising, traveling, and being active–which would be more of a nuisance when using other forms of period protection like tampons or pads. The goal of period panty is to provide discreet protection, while keeping you secure throughout the day no matter what activities you’re engaged in.
7. Peace of mind even while you sleep:
Period panties are great to use while you sleep because you won’t have to worry about your pad moving and causing leaks to your panty or bed sheets. If you’re a pad or tampon user, since you should change your pad or tampon regularly due to the risk of toxic shock syndrome, period panties will allow you to comfortably sleep through the night without having to worry about getting up to change your tampon.
8. Control and conceal odors:
Period panty is designed for every type of flow. It uses a leak-resistant layer so the panty is able to absorb liquids, control odors, and dry quickly, keeping the wearer comfortable all period long.
9. Daily Protection:
For those not just facing the monthly menstruation but also looking for an everyday comfort solution, period panties offer a breathable, hygienic option that keeps you feeling fresh and secure. Whether it's light spotting or just the need for a cleaner, more comfortable underwear choice, these panties ensure you're covered every day of the month.
10. Light Incontinence Support:
We understand that menstruation isn't the only concern for many people. Light incontinence, whether due to age, or exercise, can also pose daily challenges. Period panties are designed to offer protection not just for menstrual blood but for urine leaks as well, providing a discreet, secure way to go about your day with confidence and without the stress of unexpected leaks.
11. White Discharge Dryness:
Vaginal discharge is natural and normal, but it can sometimes lead to discomfort or the need for frequent changes of regular underwear. With period panties, the high absorbency layers are not only perfect for managing menstrual flow but also ideal for keeping you dry during periods of white discharge. These panties are designed to absorb and lock in moisture, leaving you feeling dry, comfortable, and confident all day long.
12. Teenagers Starting Their Menstrual Journey:
Stepping into the world of menstruation can be overwhelming for teenagers, with so many products to choose from and new experiences to navigate. Period panties offer a simple, stress-free option for young menstruators. They're as easy to use as slipping on regular underwear but with the added benefit of leak protection and absorbency. This makes them an excellent choice for those new to menstruating, providing comfort, confidence, and a sense of security during a time of many changes.
13. Physical Activity and Long Hours of Travel:
Whether you're running a marathon, practicing yoga, or embarking on a cross-country adventure, period panties are your unwavering ally. They are designed to move with your body, providing leak-proof protection without sacrificing comfort or breathability. This makes them an ideal companion for those who lead an active lifestyle or find themselves on the move for extended periods.
Say goodbye to the worry of leaks or the hassle of frequent changes, and hello to uninterrupted, comfortable experiences no matter where your adventures take you.
