I’ll be honest—when I first heard about period panties, I was skeptical! People talk about how comfortable and easy they are to use, but all I could picture was walking around feeling like I was wearing a diaper. How were period panties any different than pads? Weren’t period panties just glorified granny panties?
After thinking about the amount of single-use waste I was accumulating with traditional tampons and still leaking at night, I decided it was worth a try. I started out only using period panties at night as a “backup” and have loved them so much they’re now part of my regular, monthly routine.
Yup, turns out that most of the things I worried about were period panty myths. If you’ve been thinking about wearing period panties, but are not really ready to make the switch because of all those period panty myths – you’re not alone and I hope this post helps!
I’m breaking down 15 period panty myths that might be holding you back from making the switch—because once you know the truth, you might just wonder why you didn’t try them sooner.
Today, we’re busting the 15 biggest period panties myths that might be keeping you from trying them.
Period Panty Myth 1: Period panties are just like “granny panties”
Truth: There are so many designs for period panties, you’re not limited to the traditional panty style! From boxer briefs and shorts to thongs, period panties have evolved to accommodate all types of menstruating people. They’re designed with specialized, absorbent, and leak-proof layers.
Here are some examples:
The Period Company High Waisted Period Panty With Organic Cotton
Thinx Thong Period Panties For Light Absorbancy
Period Panty Myth 2: They’re gross and unsanitary.
Truth: Period panties are not unsanitary because they are machine washable, making them easy to clean and reuse. The most recommended method is to first rinse period panties in the sink immediately after use until the water runs clear and place in the washer. I understand this can be gross to some so instead I recommend using a wet bag to store period panties after use. Once full, empty the period panty contents into the washer, along with the wet bag. Air dry your period panties for best results because the dryer can ruin the absorbant fibers. I’m a cloth diaper mom so this process was incredibly familiar to me.
Period Panty Myth 3: Period panties can’t handle a heavy flow.
Truth: Period panties are highly absorbent and some can even hold up to 4 tampons’ worth of blood. If you’re skeptical about whether or not period panties can hold your flow, start by using period panties as a backup or once your flow slows, towards the end of your period.
Period Panty Myth 4: They leak easily.
Truth: I’ve never had a leak and on average, leaks are rare. This is in contrast to the many leaks I’ve had using single-use tampons and pads.
Period Panty Myth 5: Period underwear is only for teens or beginners.
Truth: Period panties are for all ages! To be honest, as a mom of two, these period panties are even more useful for me know. I’m sure I’m not the only one, but my body is very different post
Period Panty Myth 6: You have to change them constantly, like a pad.
Truth: Each pair of period panties lasts about 8-12 hours. To be safe, you can change every 6-10 hours. For me, the relief of going an 8-hour work day without the fear of changing my tampon every few hours.
Period Panty Myth 7: They’re uncomfortable and bulky.
Truth: While some designs can be bulky, not all of them are! Traditional period panties have a pantyline because they are not seamless, but there are so many styles, you can choose less bulky and more seamless options. See Myth 1 for examples!
Period Panty Myth 8: They’re bad for sensitive skin.
Truth: Period panties are great for sensitive skin as many brands are made from organic cotton and hypoallergenic materials. Some period panty brands are diligent in their efforts to reduce toxins and PFAS (also known as “forever chemicals”). I’ve created an entire post comparing various brands of period underwear including prices and PFAS detected.
Period Panty Myth 9: They’re not eco-friendly because you’re washing them more.
Truth: Believe it or not, washing uses way less water and energy than producing disposable pads/tampons!
Period Panty Myth 10: They’re super expensive and not worth it.
Truth: Yes, period panties are more expensive initially. For example, this 3-pack set costa about $11 per panty. That is equivalent to one to two boxes of tampons, depending on location and brand. These period panties can be used over and over again while those boxes of tampons have to be repurchased every month. Once you build your stash, you are free from the constant worry of having to restock your menstrual cycle supplies.
Period Panty Myth 11: Only certain body types can wear them.
Truth: Size inclusivity is important and some period panty brands have a long way to go. In my experience, I’ve had to size up for every period panty I’ve purchased for a comfortable fit. That being said, period panties come in various sizes for all body types. The Period Company period panties, for example, can size up to 5X.
Period Panty Myth 12: You can’t exercise in them.
Truth: If you’re anything like me and you’re very conscious of your panty line, this is not the time to wear the tightest leggings in your drawer. However, if you have decent running shorts or yoga pants, you can wear your period panties without fear of a panty line showing. Honestly, my period panties are even more comfortable because I don’t have to worry about my pad sliding! EW! Sorry, just being real here!
Period Panty Myth 13: They smell bad after a few uses.
Truth: As long as you properly wash and dry your period panties, there’s no odor! Anti-odor tech and moisture-wicking layers help with making sure there is no bad smell.
Period Panty Myth 14: You can’t wear period panties overnight.
Truth: Period panties are the BEST for overnight. I don’t have to wake up to change at all! I used to be half-sleep trying to change my tampon in the middle of the night, but period panties have changed that. If I’m having extra heavy flow, I also don’t have to worry about leaking because i can pair it with traditional period products.
Period Panty Myth 15: You can’t wear them with a tampon or menstrual cup.
Truth: You can! A lot of people use period panties as a backup for heavy-flow days. If you’re just starting out and apprehensive, this is my recommended method or trying them on low-flow days.
Period panties have made that “time of the month” so much more enjoyable! And I hope personal experience with period panties help to bust those period panty myths and rethink what they’ve heard!
If you’re looking for a more sustainable and comfortable solution to traditional single-use period products, give period panties a try!
Leave a Reply