Period Underwear
The Center for Baby and Adult Hygiene Products is the only U.S.-based organization dedicated to advancing the personal absorbent hygiene products industry in North America
Overview
Period panties are washable, reusable absorbent underwear designed to replace liners, pads and tampons, or be worn with tampons and cups for extra protection. Generally, the gusset is made up of absorbent and leak-resistant layers designed to help the wearer feel dry and comfortable all throughout their period. Although early examples of period underwear emerged in the 1960s, it was not until the early 21st century that the textile technology existed to create reliably high-performing products. Their popularity was accelerated by international supply issues experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to widespread consumer adoption and mainstream availability in mass retailers in the early 2020s.
Use
Different brands and styles of period underwear hold different amounts of fluid, from one light tampon’s worth to nine tampons’ worth and up to 12 hours of wear. Period underwear might be a great option for people who want to reduce their waste from single-use disposable period products, or who may have a medical reason for not being able to use tampons. Since period underwear is not inserted into the body, there is no risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome, and the underwear can be worn for up to 12 hours. Many period underwear brands can be washed in warm water in a washing machine or by hand. Most cannot be put in the dryer as the heat tends to distort the water-resistant layer and compromise its performance.
What is period underwear made of?
The body of the underwear may be made from any fabric and is usually designed to look and feel much the same as ordinary underwear. The multi-layered gusset is usually composed of a polyester or cotton top sheet designed to wick away moisture, backed by an absorbent center layer of special fabrics designed to trap liquid inside the underwear and a leak-resistant outer layer.
How long do period underwear last?
Well-made period underwear that’s washed and dried according to the care instructions should last as long as a pair of ordinary fabric underwear.
What are the advantages of period underwear?
Many people find period underwear to be a comfortable and convenient, non-invasive method of menstruation management. Due to their all-in-one design, they are seen as a discreet alternative to single-use pads, making them particularly popular with teens and during sports and activities. They are also popular with those looking for a more eco-friendly solution. As a result of the popularity of period underwear, there is also growing interest in washable incontinence underwear for women and men.