Designed to absorb menstrual flow and prevent leaks, period undies have gained much popularity in recent years as a more environmentally friendly option for managing menstrual bleeding.
In fact, single-use menstrual products such as tampons & pads are one of the most frequently collected items in beach clean-ups in the UK, with an average of 5 pieces of menstrual products waste picked up every 100m on UK beaches. Switching to period underwear can therefore help to reduce these statistics as they completely eliminate the need for single-use products.
But alongside the wonderful benefits to the planet, they can also be incredibly beneficial to you. Keep reading to discover why!
- They are hassle free & convenient
The first major benefit of using period undies is that they are totally hassle free. To use, simply pop them on just like you would for a normal pair of panties, and you’re good to go!
The only difference to normal underwear is that they include an additional layer of fabric that absorbs the blood, doing the exact same job of a pad or tampon. And while the idea of bleeding directly into your pants might sound strange at first, they are much easier to get along with than fiddling around with tampons & pads.
They are also super convenient as you don’t have to worry about carrying them with you in your bag or changing them as often as you would with single-use disposable products.
- They come in a wide variety of styles and patterns to suit everyone
While it’s easy to assume that all period underwear looks unfashionable, this couldn’t be any further from the truth. In fact, they can be found in a wide variety of styles – high leg, thong, full, hipster, boy pants, brief, laced – making them look as well as feel even more like a ‘normal’ pair of undies.
With a wide variety of styles out there, you can pick and choose your preferred type of underwear to suit your individual style and flow.
What’s more, you can also find period swimwear on the market for complete peace of mind when having fun at the pool or beach. Period swimwear looks just like any other swimwear but will absorb menstrual blood and avoid leaks, eliminating the need to worry about a pad or tampon.
- They are affordable & save you money in the long run
Although period undies may initially be more expensive upfront, they are much more cost-effective in the long run, as they do not need to be constantly replaced like single-use pads and tampons.
Also, disposable period products often require more frequent changing, which can increase their overall cost. In comparison, reusable underwear can be worn and washed multiple times, reducing the need to continually purchase new products.
- They are comfortable & discreet
Another major benefit is that they are super comfortable and discreet… two of the most important features of period underwear.
This is because they are made of soft, breathable materials – you won’t even notice you’re on your period (unlike bulky pad wings and tampon strings in your underwear). This soft material can help reduce discomfort and irritation during menstruation.
- They can be liberating
Wearing period underwear while on your period is also known as ‘free bleeding’, where your period is able to flow naturally from your body (and with period undies on, rest assured there’s no mess to worry about).
Free bleeding is seen as liberating to some because it allows them to experience their menstrual cycle in a more natural and unencumbered way.
Free bleeding can provide a sense of freedom from the constraints of traditional period products, which may be uncomfortable or inconvenient to use. It can also allow people to feel more in tune with their bodies and more comfortable with the natural processes of their menstrual cycle.
- They are kinder to your body
Period underwear is much kinder to your body (as well as the environment) because they don’t contain any of the harmful chemicals that are usually found in disposable period products.
Switching the tampons for period underwear also eliminates the risk of developing toxic shock syndrome (TSS) – a dangerous life-threatening condition caused by bacteria getting into the body (via a tampon) and releasing harmful toxins.
Written by Kate, on behalf of award winning suppliers of reusable pads & wipes – Cheeky Wipes Australia.
