He Cares Monday: Period Products Series - Period Panties

Written By Tracey Willingham

Period Panties

Period products have come a long way and the choices for individuals who have periods are incredible. Let’s break down 5 of the most commonly used products so you can support someone you love with periods!

In the journey to make menstrual health more comfortable and manageable, period panties have emerged as a game-changer. These absorbent, reusable underwear offer an eco-friendly and comfortable alternative to traditional menstrual products. But what exactly are period panties, and how can you be supportive in this choice? Let's dive in.

Understanding Period Panties: Period panties are designed with special absorbent layers to replace or complement traditional menstrual products like pads and tampons. They come in various styles and absorbency levels, catering to different needs—from light spotting to heavy flow days. What makes them stand out is their convenience and sustainability, making them a great option for those looking to reduce waste and increase comfort. Let’s look at three key ways that period panties make a positive impact!

Financial Savings

  1. Long-Term Cost Savings: While period panties may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional menstrual products like pads and tampons, they can be more economical in the long run. On average, an individual might spend around $150 to $200 per year on disposable menstrual products. Period panties, depending on the brand, range from $20 to $40 per pair and can last for up to 2 years or more with proper care. This can reduce annual menstrual product expenses significantly over time.

  2. Lifetime Savings: A study suggests that individuals spend approximately $6,000 to $8,000 on disposable menstrual products over their reproductive years. Period panties can reduce this cost by half or more, depending on the number of pairs owned and the frequency of use.

Environmental Impact

  1. Reduction in Waste: The average individual uses about 11,000 to 16,000 disposable menstrual products in her lifetime. These products contribute to the approximately 200,000 metric tons of menstrual product waste annually in the U.S. alone. Period panties are reusable, and by replacing disposable products, they significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

  2. Carbon Footprint: The production, packaging, and disposal of disposable menstrual products contribute to a substantial carbon footprint. Period panties, by being reusable, help reduce the carbon emissions associated with menstrual product use.

  3. Plastic Pollution: Many disposable menstrual products contain plastic, which can take hundreds of years to decompose. A single pad contains up to 90% plastic, and tampons often come with plastic applicators. Period panties eliminate the need for these single-use plastics, contributing to a reduction in plastic pollution.

Personal Health

1. Reduced Risk of Allergies and Irritation

  • Hypoallergenic Materials: Many period panties are made from organic cotton and other hypoallergenic materials, which can reduce the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions. This is particularly important for individuals with sensitive skin who might experience discomfort from synthetic materials found in some disposable menstrual products.

  • Breathability: Period panties often use breathable fabrics that allow air circulation, which can prevent moisture buildup and reduce the risk of yeast infections and bacterial growth.

2. Comfort and Confidence

  • Secure Fit: Period panties are designed to fit snugly and securely, reducing the likelihood of leaks. This can provide individuals with greater confidence, allowing them to engage in daily activities, exercise, and sleep comfortably without the constant worry of leakage.

  • Soft and Comfortable: The soft, stretchy fabric of period panties can be more comfortable than pads or tampons, especially during heavy flow days or overnight, providing a gentler option for menstrual protection.

3. Reduction in Exposure to Chemicals

  • No Harmful Chemicals: Many disposable pads and tampons contain chemicals, dyes, and fragrances that can potentially disrupt the vaginal environment and lead to irritation or infections. Period panties offer a chemical-free alternative, reducing exposure to potentially harmful substances.

  • Avoidance of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): TSS is a rare but serious condition associated with tampon use. By using period panties instead of tampons, individuals eliminate the risk of TSS, especially during long hours of wear, such as overnight.

4. Promotes a Healthy Vaginal Environment

  • Balanced pH: The use of period panties, particularly those made from natural fibers, can help maintain a healthy vaginal pH balance. Disposable products, especially those with synthetic materials, can sometimes disrupt this balance, leading to infections or discomfort.

  • Less Dryness: Tampons can sometimes cause vaginal dryness, particularly during lighter flow days. Period panties provide an alternative that doesn’t interfere with the body’s natural moisture, helping to prevent discomfort and irritation.

5. Encourages Mindful Menstrual Care

  • Body Awareness: Using period panties can encourage individuals to be more in tune with their menstrual cycles. Since period panties can be worn for varying levels of flow, they might prompt individuals to be more mindful of their bodies and the changes they experience throughout their cycle.

  • Comfortable for Light Flow Days: Period panties are particularly useful on light flow days, where tampons might be too absorbent and pads might feel bulky. This provides a healthier, more comfortable option that aligns with the body’s needs.

6. Sustainable and Low-Toxicity Lifestyle

  • Supports Sustainable Choices: Period panties align with a broader health-conscious lifestyle by reducing the environmental impact of menstrual products. For individuals who prioritize sustainability, this choice can enhance their overall well-being by reducing their carbon footprint and supporting eco-friendly practices.

  • Long-Term Health Benefits: By minimizing exposure to synthetic materials, chemicals, and promoting a more natural and balanced vaginal environment, period panties can contribute to long-term reproductive health.

Additional Benefits

  1. Water and Resource Conservation: The production of disposable menstrual products requires significant amounts of water and raw materials, including cotton, which is water-intensive to grow. Period panties, although requiring water for washing, overall contribute to a lower resource footprint compared to the continuous production and disposal cycle of pads and tampons.

  2. Consumer Behavior: A growing number of individuals are shifting towards sustainable menstrual products like period panties. This shift is driven by increasing awareness of environmental issues and the desire to reduce personal waste.

How to Support the Use of Period Panties

  1. Encourage Exploration: Period panties come in different styles and absorbency levels. Encourage your loved one to try different options to find what works best for their needs. Being open-minded and supportive during this trial-and-error process can make a significant difference.

  2. Understand Their Benefits: Learn about the advantages of period panties, such as their sustainability and cost-effectiveness over time. When you understand why they are a good choice, you can better support your loved one’s decision to use them.

  3. Offer to Help: Whether it's doing the laundry or purchasing new pairs, offering to assist with the care and maintenance of period panties shows your commitment to your loved one''s comfort and well-being.

Here are 10 of many different companies where you can research and find the period panties that work best for you! I am not commissioned by any of these companies. I personally have invested in the period panties from Thinx, but have heard all good things from others about the other 9 options listed below!

1. Thinx

2. Modibodi

3. Knix

4. Saalt

5. Ruby Love

6. Aisle

7. Bambody

8. Aerie

  • Price Range: $8 - $20 per pair (Prices can vary depending on promotions)

  • Website: ae.com

  • Instagram: @aerie

9. Victoria’s Secret

10. Target

Supporting the use of period panties is more than just understanding the product; it’s about being there for your loved one in a way that enhances their comfort and confidence during their menstrual cycle. By being informed and empathetic, you can make a meaningful impact on their menstrual health journey.

Tracey Willingham
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