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These pairs provide absorption and comfort, even on heavy days. Ladies Menstrual Panties In Postpartum
Period underwear is normal underwear with a built-in pad or gusset that allows you to manage that time of the month without worrying about pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. The gusset is made of absorbent fabric, which catches period blood and wicks it away from your skin to keep you dry. It's an effective, environmentally friendly option for anyone who doesn't want to wear pads or tampons or needs a backup option when using other period products (like period cups), says Staci Tanouye, an OBGYN who works in private practice in Jacksonville, Florida. She adds that while they can be initially more expensive, they can be cleaned and re-used, saving money over time.
To find the best period underwear, our testing team at the Verywell Lab sampled 46 of the highest-rated pairs on the market and rated them based on their absorbency, comfort, and value. We also consulted gynecologists for their recommendations for finding the best period underwear for your specific menstrual needs.
Like tampons, pads, and cups, period underwear is rated based on how much blood it can absorb, so you’ll see the typical “light,” “medium,” and “super” labels when you shop around.
Dr. Tanouye says that people with heavier flows may have to experiment with different types of period underwear to determine which absorbency is right for them. She adds that it may be most comfortable to use other period products (like a tampon or cup) as a backup and underwear as a backup, especially if you'll be away from home for a while.
Dr. Tanouye explains that period underwear typically has three fabric layers with different purposes. She suggests prioritizing the following in each layer:
Lastly, she advises that you check the label before purchasing if you're allergic to any of these materials.
Thinx recently settled a lawsuit (Dickens, et al. v. Thinx Inc.) surrounding the presence of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and silver nanoparticles, which were found in multiple styles of the brand’s underwear following independent testing. The suit alleges that the presence of these chemicals goes against the brand’s advertising as free of harmful chemicals and toxic metals. After speaking to healthcare providers and conducting research to find out more about how the presence of PFAS in period underwear can affect consumers, we've decided to continue to include Thinx period underwear on our list. You can read more about PFAS and period underwear in our "Frequently Asked Questions" section below.
Limited coverage in the back
We loved Thinx For All Women’s Super Absorbency Brief period underwear's overall value and comfort. This period underwear also features amazing absorbency (five tampons or 2.5 pads worth). You won't be disappointed if you need period underwear with super absorbency. It’s also a great choice for light and medium-flow days.
Thinx underwear features a comfortable mid-rise waist. When we tried them, they had a nice, cottony feel. The gusset felt like a soft washcloth and was thicker than other options we tried. Made of 95% cotton and 5% elastane, the underwear is easy to wash (machine wash cold) and dries quickly.
The only downside is that there isn’t as much coverage in the back as some other pairs we tried. Other than that, this underwear definitely tops our list for comfort, absorbency, and affordability.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Super | Material: Cotton, elastane | Fit: Mid-rise | Sizes: XS - 4X | Care Instructions: Machine wash, lay flat to dry/line dry
High waist might not be comfortable for everyone
Goat Union, Overnight Period Underwear, topped our list for heavy-flow days or overnight use. Goat Union claims its underwear can absorb 6 teaspoons of fluid, and this claim held up to our testing. We noticed that they absorbed slower than we expected but still were effective—the gusset was wet, and the exterior was dry with no overspill.
The moisture-wicking bamboo fabric and four-layer design keep you feeling comfortable even during the heaviest flow. The high waist and high gusset provide ample coverage. The fabric was thick and soft. Considering this underwear's dependable absorbency and affordable price point, it is a winner.
The underwear had a ton of seams everywhere, which does not feel great, especially if you're not into seams.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Light-heavy | Material: Bamboo, cotton, polyester, nylon, spandex | Fit: Brief | Sizes: XS - 5X | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry extra-low or hang dry
Absorbs advertised amount of fluid
We were a bit skeptical of the idea of an absorbent thong, but this product surprised us. If you want to wear thongs on your period and have a light flow, then we recommend it. It absorbed 1 teaspoon of fluid during testing without any leakage, which is exactly what it’s advertised to do.
The thong is seamless and made from a soft, comfortable blend of nylon for the body and cotton/spandex for the gusset. The gusset also features a layer of polyester to provide extra waterproof protection. It absorbed water quickly, didn't spill or leak, and the outer gusset stayed perfectly dry. We were thoroughly impressed.
This thong isn't the best pick for heavier flows or days.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Light | Material: Nylon, cotton, polyester, spandex | Fit: Thong| Sizes: XS - XXXXL | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry
Claims to be free of PFAS or azo dyes
Not much coverage in the back
Not as many sizes as other brands
Cora Period Underwear absorbs the equivalent of three tampons’ worth of period blood, making them a great option for moderate flow. The bikini-style underwear is 100% cotton throughout, with a bit of elastane to add some stretch. The thick elastic waistband has a firm gusset that feels almost like a pad sans any easily visible seams like some other options.
Cora prides itself on brand sustainability and responsibility. For every product purchased, the company donates products and educational resources to BIPOC communities. According to the company, their period underwear is also made without any PFAS or azo dyes.
Other options had better coverage—the gusset didn't reach back as far as others.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Moderate | Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Fit: Bikini | Sizes: XS - XXL | Care Instructions: Machine wash delicate, lay flat to dry or line dry
Doesn’t absorb advertised amount
TOMBOYX First Line Leakproof Bikini Period Underwear is available in various sizes, from 3XS to 6X. The fabric does an amazing job absorbing fluid and repelling odors. It’s also Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certified, meaning it does not contain any known toxic chemicals (including those in the PFAS family). We wore these when we slept or worked out. They stayed up and never rolled, and we loved the look of the waistband, too.
They hold less period blood than advertised. We found that they absorbed 6 teaspoons without leakage, making this a good choice for moderate to heavy flow days.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Light/moderate | Material: Cotton, polyester, spandex | Fit: Bikini | Sizes: 3XS - 6X | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold in mesh bag, line dry
Slightly longer washing process than other pairs
The Eco Woman EcoPanties Seamless underwear is a solution for those who prefer not to feel all the seams all the time. Made from bamboo, cotton, spandex, and polyester, this underwear also features a waterproof PUL layer to keep moisture at bay. Eco Woman EcoPanties are also made of Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certified fabric.
Despite the fact that it’s a seamless option, the gusset held 4 teaspoons of liquid with no spillage when we wore them. The exterior fabric felt completely dry to the touch, while the interior gusset seams felt dry to slightly damp, unlike any of the other options we tested.
The washing process isn't as easy as other options we tested.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Light/moderate | Material: Bamboo, cotton, polyester, spandex | Fit: Bikini | Sizes: 3XS - 6X | Care Instructions: Cold rinse, machine or hand wash cold, line dry
Runs on the small side
Cotton is a hard fabric to beat when it comes to balancing comfort and absorption. If you’re a cotton lover, Rael Reusable Period Underwear should be at the top of your list. The underwear is 95% cotton, with a small amount of spandex for stretchiness. The gusset is 95% rayon for an extra absorption boost. The underwear also features a leak-proof polyester barrier to keep you dry.
It absorbed 3 teaspoons easily during testing. The outside felt dry yet cool to the touch, which we liked. The underwear also comes with a handy reusable pouch for machine washing. Just be sure to do a pre-rinse before the main wash.
This underwear isn’t as stretchy or soft as some of the other products we tried, and according to the manufacturer, it also runs on the small side. Both qualities are fairly typical of cotton.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Light/moderate | Material: Cotton, rayon polyester, spandex | Fit: Bikini | Sizes: XS - XL | Care Instructions: Cold rinse, machine wash cold, line dry or lay flat to dry
High-rise waist isn’t for everyone
Thanks to these Dear Kate Ada Briefs, you can still feel sexy during your period. The underwear features an attractive, durable lace waistband, flattering rise, and three breathable layers of absorbent fabric that will keep you dry.
We were surprised to find that this pair held more liquid than advertised. They held a full 5 teaspoons without leaking, and the outside of the fabric remained dry. This product is also free of PUL, making it a great option if you’re trying to decrease your exposure.
They have a high-rise cut, which may not be for everyone.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Light/moderate | Material: Nylon, micropolyester, polyester, elastane | Fit: High-rise | Sizes: XS - 3X | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold (do not use fabric softener), line dry
Minimal amount of fluid transfer
Knix Leakproof Boyshorts absorbed the advertised amount of 3 teaspoons very quickly, with no leakage and minimal transfer, making it a good option for light or moderate flow. We love this choice for teens who may have just started their period or have a lighter flow. They felt great against the skin and also didn't have any annoying tags.
This underwear is also extremely comfortable, so if you have a heavy flow and are looking for a backup pair that fits like a second skin, check these out.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Light/moderate | Material: Nylon, Lycra, cotton, spandex, carbon, polyester | Fit: Boyshort | Sizes: XS - XXXXL | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with mild detergent (no bleach), lay flat to dry
We did experience very minimal transfer when testing this pair.
Thinx Cycle Shorts are our choice for the best exercise period underwear. Not only do they absorb the advertised amount of period blood (about 3 teaspoons, or light flow), but they are also incredibly comfortable, making them a great choice for long workouts. They also feature several deep pockets where you can store small items if you’re on a long bike ride or run.
We think this is a great option for people who want to wear cozy athleisure towards the end of their period or as bonus protection with other menstrual options.
This isn't the best option for a heavy flow.
Key Specs: Absorbency: | Material: Nylon, Lycra, cotton, spandex, carbon, polyester| Fit: Boyshort | Sizes: XS - XL | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with mild detergent (no bleach), lay flat to dry
Small amount of gusset transfer
Due to their dependable absorbency and amazing comfort, you’ll get a great night’s sleep in Thinx Period Pajama Sleep Shorts. The shorts feature built-in underwear with an absorbent gusset, but they look like a normal pair of pajama shorts from the outside. They were super absorbent during testing. These shorts held five tampons, or 8 teaspoons, of liquid in our testing.
Comfort is also a key feature. They were heavy and thick. The gusset felt akin to terrycloth, and the shorts were nice and soft. We liked that the padding went up fairly high up the back and front. The pockets and buttons also add a stylish flair. We also think these would be great items for postpartum use.
There was a little bit of fluid transfer on the gusset, but the exterior remained completely dry.
Key Specs: Absorbency: Super | Material: Modal, cotton, polyester, elastane | Fit: Short with built-in bikini underwear | Sizes: XS - 4X | Care Instructions: Hand wash or machine wash cold, delicate, hang dry
After consulting gynecologists, we tested 46 pairs of period underwear in the Verywell Health Lab based on the following criteria:
Our period underwear testing was conducted in the Verywell Lab, with over 46 products under review. We consulted with several gynecologists, healthcare providers, and experts, including:
While period panties probably won't be as effective as a pad on your heaviest day, they'll likely work pretty well for the moderate or lighter days to follow, sasys Nicole Williams, MD, a gynecologic surgeon based in Chicago. However, periods can differ depending on the person. So, for some, period panties would likely replace the need for menstrual pads, cups, and tampons.
The duration someone wears the undergarments will again likely depend on how heavy their flow is and what day they're on within their period. Dr. Williams advises patients to change their period panties according to their comfort and that on a heavier day, you may need a spare pair or two.
PFAS are common synthetic chemicals used to make products non-stick and waterproof. Because they take thousands of years to break down, they've become known as "forever chemicals," according to the Environmental Working Group. PFAS may impact fertility and increase the risk of certain cancers, including kidney and ovarian cancers. That being said, because of a class-action settlement by Thinx, which alleged that PFAS was found in its products, many people are worried about the impact of these chemicals in period underwear. Luckily, the OBGYNs and researchers we spoke to agreed that we are exposed to PFAS so often daily that using period underwear for a few days every month may not pose any additional risks to our health.
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate any period products, so there is no way to know if period underwear or other menstrual products contain PFAS or other chemicals.
Nicole Crawford is a long-time writer and editor, as well as a prenatal and postpartum birth doula, yoga instructor, and avid runner based in Maryland. She received her master’s degree in 2008 and specializes in women’s health, prenatal and postpartum fitness, and nutrition for busy families.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
By Nicole Crawford Nicole has been a health and wellness writer and editor for over a decade, and has also worked with clients as a personal trainer, yoga instructor, and birth/postpartum doula.
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