The Best Period Underwear
Period underwear isn't just for the environmentally conscious — they're actually incredibly practical, comfortable, and in the long run, much more budget-friendly. While there are some that require the use of an extra layer of protection, there are others that can be worn as they are even during the heaviest days of your cycle. We've curated the ideal list of period underwear, so read through to find the ideal pick for you.
Innersy Women’s Period Panties
While this underwear is ideal for menstrual flow, it’s also totally practical for postpartum bleeding and leaking. High-waisted for comfort, it’s ideal for going up and over a bloated belly or a healing C-section scar. Made of cotton and spandex, it also boasts a waterproof layer that provides leak-proof protection, as well as an ultra-comfy cotton layer that absorbs fluids for increased security. The result is an incredible fit, optimal coverage, and no irritating fabrics for an experience that’ll make your period days just a little better.
Pros:
- Provides coverage and protection for heavy flow days
- Breathable, comfortable cotton fabric
- Pack of three for budget-friendly price and convenience
Cons:
- The crotch strip is light in color
- Order up for best fit
Olikeme Menstrual Period Undewear
More bang for your buck
Period underwear is notoriously pricey, and while it ends up being cost-effective in the long run, the investment can seem a little daunting — especially if you’ve never tried a pair. That’s why we’re digging this pack of period underwear. Proving that they work even for heavy flow days, these briefs provide ample protection, comfort, and coverage, and with five pairs per pack, they’re budget-friendly, too. With a leak-proof layer that’s still soft and comfortable, you can expect less leakage, less irritation, and much less cost, too. That’s a combination we can get behind.
Pros:
- Hits at mid-waist for comfort and style
- Specially designed to stay in place
- Three layers of leak-proof fabric
Cons:
- These aren’t designed to be used without another source of protection
- The leg holes are on the tighter side
Thinx Sport Menstrual Underwear
Sweat it out
If you’re just lounging around, fine — a standard pair of everyday period underwear will suffice. But for more active days, you’ll need a specifically designed style that’ll work no matter what kind of activity you’re engaging in. With that in mind, Thinx’s sports underwear is a definite must. For highly active women, extra leak-proof capabilities are vital. But comfort is also key, and this pair delivers on both fronts. Dependable enough for heavy flows and comfortable enough for sprinting, these underwear seem to do it all. As a bonus, they even have neutralizing odor protection built right in.
Pros:
- Bikini-style underwear for comfort and style
- Supremely comfortable with zero bulk
- Neutralizing odor protection
Cons:
- Notoriously pricey, but we feel the investment is worth it
- Size up for best fit
Bambody Absorbent Period Panty
Overnight protection
When it comes to nighttime period protection, full coverage and extra absorbency are definitely a must. Offering maximum protection, Bambody’s take on period underwear is an excellent option for nighttime wear. With an extended leakproof layer as well as a mid-section that absorbs the equivalent of up to two tampons, this underwear provides breathability, comfort, and the ability to toss and turn without fearing you’ll leak all over your sheets. The underwear is made of bamboo, too, which is one of the healthiest fabrics you can wear.
Pros:
- Naturally absorbent
- Provides hypoallergenic breathability
- Ultra-soft and comfortable fabric
Cons:
- Require air-drying, which takes a considerable amount of time
- The leg holes are snug
Shero LeakProof Thong Period Underwear
Barely visible
Although we wouldn’t recommend wearing these on heavier flow days, these thongs are fantastic. Capable of absorbing up to one tampon’s worth of blood, they are naturally absorbent and won’t require an extra source of protection. With a quick-drying fabric that’s made from bamboo, charcoal, and recycled coffee grounds, the material of these thongs provides natural odor control. We love knowing we can get away with no panty lines even when we’re on our period thanks to these thongs.
Pros:
- Bacteria fighting fabric for an all-day freshness
- Thin, soft, and breathable
- Machine-washable
Cons:
- For best fit, order up a size
- These are not meant for heavier flow days
Frequently Asked Questions
How does period underwear work?
By using a blend of fabric and/or plastic layers, period underwear wicks away moisture and provides leak protection so that you don’t have to wear a pad, tampon, cup, or other period wear. Basically, period underwear is designed similarly to a disposable diaper, just without gel pellets. And most importantly, period underwear is reusable.
How many pairs of period underwear do I need?
Although it does depend on your flow as well as how you do your laundry, plan on having one pair of period underwear per day of your period. Although it is possible to keep less on hand and just cycle them with washing, for the sake of less hassle, always having a fresh pair ready and waiting per day is a safe bet. It’s also recommended to get a few different styles and absorbency levels. This will allow you to tailor your period underwear to your specific needs.
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