Every month, women spend a lot of money on period essentials, starting from sanitary pads to panty liners, tampons, menstrual cups, and vaginal washes. As a regular menstruating woman, you must often wonder how convenient it would be to find a one-time solution. Luckily, with the introduction of washable period underwear, you can now reduce your monthly supermarket visits and costs.
Initially, to test the effectiveness and comfort level of period underwear, 56 volunteers were recruited in Australia. These volunteers were required to test the underwear and rate the absorbency of the garment on the second or third day of their period (Moderate flow day). The women rated the underwear on the following factors: fit, comfort, absorbency, and underlying odor. Upon examining the results, it was concluded that the period underwear worked pretty well and received a rating of 8 out of 10.
Things to keep in mind while switching to period underwear
Choose the right underwear
Similar to regular underwear and pads, washable period underwear has a variety of patterns, styles, and cuts. Some underwear types include thong cuts, bikini briefs, hipsters, and high-waisted models. You have a wide range of styles and colors to choose from. However, choosing a period panty needs a lot more thought. You need to consider your menstrual flow levels, your comfort level, the type of outfit you prefer wearing on your period days, and so on.
Absorbency is the key
It is imperative to test the underwear for its absorbency level. No matter how comfortable or unique the garment may look, if it doesn’t absorb the blood, it is of no use for your period days. A good leak-proof undergarment will keep you dry and comfortable for long hours.
Get ready for trial and error
Remember the amount of effort you took to find the right sanitary pad? You need to have the same enthusiasm while choosing your washable period underwear. You most definitely won’t get it right the first time. Nevertheless, over time, you will find the perfect fit. It is always a good idea to test the underwear at home the first time to avoid any unwanted leakages and discomfort. A little patience and a few trial and error sessions will certainly help you find the ideal panty.
Benefits of period underwear
Eco friendly –
Each woman uses about 20,000 tampons or pads throughout her life. Due to a lack of efficient disposing methods, all these used napkins are piling up in landfills and oceans, increasing the overall pollution levels. Furthermore, pads and tampons are mostly made out of plastic and take years for each napkin to decompose. A period panty is not only made out of cotton or silk but is also a one-time investment. One underwear can be washed and used for years, making it environmentally friendly.
Easy to use –
Although it may take a little while to get used to the idea of directly bleeding into your undergarment, using period underwear is very easy. You can wear it like any other panty and be carefree.
Extremely comfortable –
Wearing tampons and pads can feel bulky and uncomfortable, especially while wearing tight pants or skirts on hot summer days. Washable period underwear undoubtedly solves the above issues.
Cost-effective –
Since period underwear is reusable, it brings down the amount of money spent on pads and tampons monthly or weekly.
