How does period underwear work?

How Does Period Underwear Work and Other Common FAQs

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Period panties are a revolutionary alternative to traditional period products like disposable pads and tampons. Designed to look and feel like regular underwear, these garments have built-in absorbent layers that effectively manage menstrual flow. They are crafted to provide comfort, convenience, and reliability during menstruation, making them an increasingly popular choice among menstruators.

How Does Period Underwear Work?

Period underwear functions through multiple layers of specialized fabric:

  • Moisture-Wicking Layer: The innermost layer, which sits against the skin, is designed to quickly draw moisture away, keeping you feeling dry and comfortable.
  • Absorbent Layer: This middle layer is the core of the period underwear. It’s made from highly absorbent materials that can hold varying amounts of menstrual fluid, depending on the design and brand. 
  • Leak-Resistant Layer: The outer layer is typically made from a waterproof or water-resistant fabric to prevent leaks and protect your clothes.

These layers work together to provide a secure and dry experience, often comparable to wearing a pad or tampon but without the bulk or need for frequent changes.

Period underwear

Benefits of Using Reusable Period Underwear

  • Eco-Friendly: Period underwear is reusable, reducing the environmental impact of disposable menstrual products.
  • Cost-Effective: While the initial investment may be higher, menstrual underwear can save money in the long run as they replace the need for disposable products.
  • Comfort: Made from soft, breathable fabrics, period underwear can be more comfortable than pads or tampons.
  • Convenience: With period underwear, there’s no need to carry around extra supplies or worry about running out of products.
  • Versatility: They can be worn alone or as a backup with other menstrual products for added protection on your heaviest days.

How to Use Period Underwear

  • Wear Like Regular Underwear:
    • Put on period underwear just like you would with regular underwear. Make sure they fit snugly to prevent leaks.
  • Monitor and Change as Needed:
    • Depending on your flow, you might need to change period underwear every 8-12 hours or more frequently on heavier days. Some people prefer to use them as extra protection along with other menstrual products on heavy days.

How to Care for Period Undies

According to WebMD, period underwear is safe and sanitary to use if you care for them properly. Maintain the effectiveness and longevity of reusable period underwear by following these simple care instructions:

  1. Rinse: After use, rinse the underwear in cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Machine Wash Separately: Always wash period underwear separately from other clothes, towels, or socks on delicate cycle.
  3. Use Mild Detergent: Choose a mild, dye-free detergent to prevent irritation.
  4. Avoid Fabric Softeners: Don’t use fabric softener or scented sheets, as they can affect the absorbency and cause irritation.
  5. Extra Rinse: Ensure there’s no soap residue by putting the underwear through an extra rinse cycle.
  6. Air-Dry: Always let period underwear air-dry instead of using a dryer to maintain their quality and effectiveness.

What is the Goal of Period Underwear?

  • Leak Protection: Period underwear is designed to absorb bodily fluids and prevent leaks, providing reliable protection for various flow levels, from light period days to heavy days.
  • Comfort: Made with soft, stretchy fabrics, period underwear aims to offer maximum comfort, eliminating the bulkiness and discomfort often associated with disposable products.
  • Eco-Friendliness: By being reusable, period underwear reduces the environmental impact associated with disposable menstrual products, which contribute to landfill waste and pollution.
  • Convenience: Period underwear simplifies menstrual care by providing an all-in-one solution, eliminating the need to carry and change multiple products throughout the day.

Overall, period underwear aims to make menstrual management more comfortable, sustainable, and convenient while promoting better health and cost savings.

Why I Think Diva Underwear is the Best Option

I personally chose the Diva brand for period underwear because of its commitment to non-toxic, environmentally friendly products and its stellar reputation. Here’s why Diva stood out to me:

  • Eco-Friendly and Sustainable:
    • Environmental Impact: Diva Underwear significantly reduces the waste associated with disposable menstrual products. By choosing reusable options, you’re contributing to a decrease in plastic waste and landfill overflow.
    • Sustainably Made: Diva Underwear is crafted from recycled fabric, promoting eco-friendly practices and reducing the need for new materials.
  • Comfort and Convenience:
    • Ultra Comfort: Made with silky, seamless, 4-way stretch fabric, Diva Underwear ensures exceptional comfort and flexibility.
    • Long-Wear Freshness: Equipped with DryTec™ for moisture and odor control, they keep you feeling fresh throughout the day.
    • Inclusive Sizing: Designed to fit a range of body types, Diva Underwear offers inclusive sizing to ensure a comfortable fit for everyone.
    • Easy Maintenance: Diva Underwear is easy to clean. Simply hand wash or use a washing machine on a gentle cycle.
  • Effective Absorbency:
    • High Absorbency: Capable of holding up to 9 regular tampons worth of flow, Diva Underwear provides reliable leak protection, making them suitable for even heavy flow days.
    • Peace of Mind: Their high absorbency ensures you can go about your day without worrying about leaks or discomfort.
  • Health Benefits:
  • Cost-Effective:
    • Long-Term Savings: The long-term savings from using period panties are substantial when you consider the reduced recurring costs, extended lifespan, and environmental benefits.

Choosing Diva period underwear means opting for a product that prioritizes health, comfort, and environmental responsibility. Their dedication to quality and sustainability gives me confidence that I’m making a positive choice for both my body and the planet. 


Frequently Asked Questions

What is period underwear?
Period underwear is specially designed underwear that can absorb menstrual flow, providing an alternative to pads, tampons, or menstrual cups.

How many hours can I wear period underwear?
The duration you can wear period underwear depends on your flow and the absorbency level of the underwear. Generally, they can be worn for up to 8-12 hours on normal days. On heavier days, you may need to change them more frequently.

Can period underwear be worn overnight?
Yes, many brands offer all day confidence and are designed to be used overnight as well.

How many pairs do I need?
The number of pairs you need depends on your flow, how often you plan to do laundry, and how many days you’re going to wear them. Many users find that having 5-7 pairs of period underwear is sufficient for their menstrual cycle.

Do they smell?
When properly cared for, period underwear should not have any odor. The moisture-wicking and anti-microbial properties help keep odors at bay.

Can teens use period underwear?
Yes, period underwear can be a great option for teens, providing a comfortable and stress-free menstrual management solution.

Is period underwear suitable for sports?
Absolutely. Period underwear is designed to be comfortable and secure, making it a great option for active wear.

Can you wear period underwear in the pool?
Period underwear is designed to absorb menstrual blood and is typically made from absorbent and leak-proof materials. However, while they are excellent for everyday use, they are not suitable for wearing in the swimming pool.

Here’s why:

  • Absorbency: Period underwear is designed to absorb moisture, so when submerged in water, they will absorb the pool water along with period blood. This can lead to discomfort and potential leakage.
  • Design: Period underwear does not have the same tight seal that bikini bottoms designed for periods (like menstrual swimwear) has. This means they are not effective at preventing leaks in a swimming environment.

The good news is, there’s other options. For swimming during your period, consider alternatives such as:

  • Menstrual Cups: A menstrual cup provides a secure internal option that doesn’t interfere with swimming.
  • Menstrual Discs: Offering similar benefits to menstrual cups, menstrual discs are another internal option that can be worn while swimming without fear of leaks.
  • Tampons: A suitable option for swimming and are designed to be worn internally.
  • Period Swimwear: Period swimsuits are specially designed to handle water and menstrual flow, providing a leak-proof experience in the pool.

So, while period underwear is fantastic for many activities, it’s best to opt for other menstrual products when heading to the pool.

Can period underwear replace pads and tampons completely?
Period underwear can be used as a complete replacement for pads and tampons for many people. However, some people prefer to use them as a backup on heavier days in conjunction with other menstrual products.

What brands are recommended for period underwear?
Some popular brands include Diva, Thinx, Saalt, and Modibodi. If you would like to try the Diva brand, I have a coupon for 15% off select items. Just use code: Melanie15 at check out.


Period underwear is a game-changer in menstrual hygiene, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and sustainability. Whether you’re looking to reduce your environmental footprint, save money, or simply try something new, period underwear is worth considering for your menstrual needs.

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