Listen, we’re really keen on giving you all the shopping recommendations here at New York Post Shopping. One of the most practical: period underwear.
Whether you opt for wing-style pads, tampons or panty liners, you need a few quality pairs of underwear you can rely on during your time of the month. Simply put, you just can’t trust thin, day-to-day panties when you’re on your on your period — especially not thongs.
Period underwear, unlike regular underwear, has an extra layer of protection and is typically thicker and more brief-like than your average pair. Though these won’t replace your pad and tampon, they’ll provide more support during your regular to heavier flows. But, not all are made equal; some of our favorites on this list are paper-thin, lightweight and still get the job done (preventing leaks, that is!)
Not to mention, some of those accidents and embedded stains and ruins lead to more undergarments in landfills and less in our drawers. Period underwear is sustainable and helps you prevent leakage — that’s just another reason why we love it.
If we’re being honest, we don’t need another reason to complain about our menstrual cycles —and that’s why period underwear comes in handy. These feel-good pairs have built-in protection, are in darker tones (to make you feel less nervous about any accidents) and apt for daytime or overnight alike.
Browse through the 19 best period underwear styles we rounded up and let’s make a vow to keep more of our panties in our drawer and out of the trash — for good.
With a whopping 112K+ reviews on Amazon, it’s no surprise Amazon Essentials’ Cotton Bikini Brief Underwear is the six-pack high up on our list. You can select from an array of color options, though we think a mix of black, nude, gray and white is just perfect.
More like your workout booty shorts, OlikeMe’s Mid-Waist Menstrual Underwear is the ideal five-pack to pick up. They’re practical to wear when sleeping for extra overnight protection and just as great for weekly, on-period workouts.
Once upon a time, people believed that ladies couldn’t do much of anything on their period. Fortunately, we know that isn’t true. If you’re someone who likes to still hit the gym, run and do all sorts of activities during her monthly visitor, these are the period panties to add to your collection. From Proof, The High Waisted Period. in Sporty Stretch is designed to keep leaks at bay while you squat, downward dog and run errands. Available in black, and pink.
For the end of your cycle when your flow is on the unpredictable side, go for the Wuka Basics Thong. You’ll skip the hassle of running to the bathroom every other hour, plus it’s made with BCI certified cotton. Available in a 1 pack, 3 pack and 5 pack, it’s a more economical and environmentally friendly option than pantyliners. They’re also cute!
Did you know that Victoria’s Secret makes period panties? They do, and these are some of our favorites. We like that they’re available in a pack — obviously, you need more than one pair of period underwear to get you through a cycle — and they’re moisture-wicking, too! Will their sweet lace trim and centered bow keep cramps and cravings away? No, but their ability to hold 14ml of fluid will minimize worries about leaks.
Okay, these aren’t exactly underwear. However, lots of us like to wear shorts to bed, which isn’t always doable if you need a bulky pad. These period shorts from Thinx let’s you slumber how you want, while remaining protected against accidents in the night. Available in three colors and featuring an extended absorbent gusset, it’s our pick for a totally dreamy sleep experience!
These period panties have a three layer system to absorb liquid and keep you dry. Made of breathable cotton, their also stretchy and comfortable! If you grab at Kohl’s, you’ll have six different colors to choose from, each under $20.
If thick period panties are what you’re after, Knix’s Leafproof High-Rise pair is your best bet. For one, the color selection is perfect for your time of the month. Oh, and we can’t forget to mention its high-rise nature for helping to deflate that bloat (we’ve all been there).
Specially designed with a thicker fabric yet breathable makeup, AerieREAL’s Period Underwear is a great undergarment to pick up now for just $10. Its cotton, highly absorbent fabric is just what we’re all looking for, too. Available in a variety of colors.
A pair of sexy and feminine period panties? Yes, please. We seriously love the look of the Ada Brief from Dear Kate, especially its lace trim. The underwear doesn’t contain any plastic or film, and holds up to 3 teaspoons worth of liquid. Sizes start at XS and go to 3X. Available in four colors, including a mystery one!
We love how Thinx’s High-Waisted Menstrual Underwear is structured, from its full-coverage fit to its breathable mesh components. It’s also odor-neutralizing too and easy to clean and care for. With a leakproof-resistant barrier, you won’t have to worry all day long, either.
Simple and worth the $20 grab, Hanes’ Comfort, Period Boyshort is the three-pack that’s perfect to sleep in and pair with your favorite sweatpants on lazy days. What’s great about these bottoms, specifically, is their built-in liner for extra protection.
Want leakproof but without a heavier feel? Saalt’s Leakproof Period Underwear is the best $34 investment you’ll make, then, as the seamless, practical fit is sure to make your time of the month as seamless as can be. If regular absorbency is what you’re after, this is a solid grab.
We reviewed Honeylove’s styles and still revert to its Silhouette Brief. The generous high-waisted detail is like no other, and it pairs well with the brand’s Silhouette Bra ($64) to match.
Listen up, ladies — if you’re looking for that thick, basketball shorts-type band, Bambody makes it. The brand’s Absorbent Hipster Sporty Period Panties are, as its name suggests, sporty and ready for any activity. We support this $25 three-pack fully.
Similarly, TomboyX has a great Period Leakproof Hipster style that includes built-in protection and waistband-to-crotch coverage. Its nontoxic fabric is a plus, too, if sustainability is a top-button priority.
Don’t let Aunt Flow ruin the look of your slinky dress! Slip these gorgeous thongs on instead and get ready to have fun. They’re moisture-wicking and are great for light/end of your cycle days — and nights — and super comfortable.
Yes, period underwear can still be cute. Proof’s Leakproof Lace Cheeky still provides adequate coverage while accented with feminine detailing, much like your favorite thongs and cheekier pairs. While you’re at it, you’ll want to pick up multiple pairs. Also available in pink.
Speaking of period underwear that’s amazing for bedtime, Laleste’s Spandex Boyshorts have a comfortable to-the-body fit that will have you rocking and rolling all night (and day!) long. Not to mention, the vibrant, polka-dotted styles will make your cycle a tad more enjoyable when worn.
Yes, many gynecologists approve of period underwear.
Period underwear is designed with absorbent layers, and can be a way of cutting back on the cost of traditional feminine hygiene products. It can also be more enviromentally friendly, because you’re reducing waste.
These types of underwear are generally good for moderate to light flow days. Of course, this is all dependent on the individual. Some of our favorite period underwear include:
Yes, it’s totally sanitary to wash period underwear. One of the highlights of this type of undergarment is that unlike pads or tampons, you don’t need to toss them out after one use. This makes them more cost-effective in the long run, as well as more eco-friendly.
Most period panty brands suggest washing their underwear in cold water. Make sure to read care directions. Like with other garments, it’s a good idea to rinse after wearing to prevent stains from setting in.
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