How Does Period Underwear Work?
Periods have long required products like pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. But in recent years, many women have started exploring another option—period underwear. These innovative undergarments are designed to feel just like your favorite pair of everyday panties, offering powerful protection against leaks.
If you’ve ever wondered, “How does period underwear work?” or “Do period panties really work as well as other menstrual products?”, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll explain what period underwear is, how it works, how to care for it, and why Soma’s leakproof panties make switching to period underwear simple, comfortable, and reliable.
What Is Period Underwear?
How Do Period Panties Work?
How Much Liquid Can Period Underwear Hold?
Benefits of Wearing Period Underwear
How to Choose the Right Period Underwear
How to Clean Period Underwear
Period Underwear: FAQs
Handle Your Flow with Confidence
What Is Period Underwear?
Period underwear looks and feels like regular underwear but is designed with multiple layers that absorb your menstrual flow and prevent leaks. Unlike disposable products, period undies are washable and reusable, making them an eco-friendly option for your menstrual cycle.
Menstrual panties are also less noticeable under clothing compared to bulky pads. This makes them a discreet solution for women who want protection without sacrificing comfort.
How Do Period Panties Work?
At first glance, it may be hard to believe that period underwear can absorb your menstrual flow and still feel dry. However, each underwear layer plays a specific role in keeping you comfortable.
Moisture-wicking top layer
The first layer is made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric. Its purpose is to quickly draw liquid away from the skin, keeping you feeling dry. Many fabrics used here are also antimicrobial, reducing odor and bacteria.
This layer prevents the discomfort many women feel when wearing traditional pads. It makes period underwear feel more like regular underwear than a menstrual product.
Absorbent layer
This is the heart of period underwear. This absorbent layer traps fluid, locks in odor, and prevents it from spreading. It works silently and discreetly, meaning you can go about your day without constantly worrying about leaks or discomfort.
Soma’s Proof® panties feature a patented Leak-Loc core, which can hold up to eight teaspoons of liquid. This equals about four tampons.
Leakproof layer
The outermost layer is a waterproof barrier that prevents any blood from leaking onto clothing. At Soma, our design goes a step further by offering a liner that covers you front to back, ensuring protection whether you’re sitting, sleeping, or moving around.
How Much Liquid Can Period Underwear Hold?
The absorbency of period underwear varies by brand and style. Some light-flow styles hold only a tampon’s worth, while others can handle heavy days with capacities of up to 12 tampons.
Soma’s leakproof panties are designed to balance absorbency with comfort. Each pair can hold eight teaspoons of liquid without feeling bulky, which is ideal for moderate to heavy flow days. This makes them a versatile solution, whether you want to replace other period products entirely or use them as backup protection alongside tampons or a menstrual cup.
Keep in mind that absorbency depends on your personal cycle. Many women find they prefer lighter styles early or late in their cycle, then heavier pairs on peak flow days.
Benefits of Wearing Period Underwear
Period panties aren’t just about protection—they offer a range of benefits that make them a popular option for many women.
Reusable
Unlike single-use pads and tampons, period underwear can be washed and reused for years. That makes them an eco-friendly choice that reduces waste.
Versatile
Period underwear isn’t only for your menstrual flow. Many women wear them for urinary incontinence, postpartum bleeding, or everyday discharge. One product can cover multiple needs.
Cost-effective
Though the initial investment may be higher, period underwear lasts through many menstrual cycles, saving you money over time compared to constantly buying disposables.
Safe and sanitary
As long as you wash them properly, period underwear is completely sanitary. Regular washing removes bacteria and keeps them fresh for reuse.
Convenient
With period underwear, there’s no need to carry pads or tampons around. You simply wear them like regular underwear, whether at work, the gym, or traveling. So make sure to add a pair of period underwear to your vacation packing list.
Period underwear also works well for overnight wear. You can sleep better knowing your sheets are safe from leaks.
Comfortable
Proof® panties are designed to feel just like everyday underwear—soft, breathable, and flattering—while still protecting against leaks. No bulk, no crinkle, no discomfort.
How to Choose the Right Period Underwear
Now that you know what period panties are, it’s time to find the best pair for your flow. Not all period underwear is the same. Here’s what to consider when choosing the right pair:
Flow needs
Lighter styles are perfect for spotting or light flow days. Heavy-absorbency pairs are better for day one or overnight use.
Fit and style
Look for silhouettes you already love, such as briefs, bikinis, or high-waist styles.
Lifestyle
If you’re active, choose pairs designed for movement. For bedtime, consider full-coverage silhouettes.
Backup vs. Solo use
Decide if you want to wear period underwear alone or alongside tampons, pads, or menstrual cups for extra protection.
How to Clean Period Underwear
Caring for period underwear is simple, but following the right routine increases the shelf life of your panties.
Rinse first. After wearing, rinse in cold water to remove excess fluid.
Machine wash. Use a washing machine on a gentle or delicate cycle with mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softener.
Air dry. Skip the dryer, which can damage the absorbent layers. Instead, lay flat or hang to dry.
Most pairs last several years with proper care, making them a dependable, sustainable option. Following these steps ensures your underwear stays effective and hygienic.
Period Underwear: FAQs
How do you know when period panties are full?
You’ll know your period underwear is full if you start to feel dampness, notice leaks, or if blood is visible on the wicking layer. Pay attention to how the underwear feels, weighs, and smells. If the gusset in your period underwear is stiff and heavy, or if it smells like stale blood, it’s time to change.
Choosing underwear suited to your flow helps prevent this. If you tend to have heavy flow days, it’s a good idea to bring an extra pair and switch midway to stay fresh.
How often should you change period underwear?
It depends on your flow, comfort, and the specific underwear. In general, most women can wear period underwear for up to 12 hours safely. Avoid going over the recommended time, as prolonged wear could cause odor or leakage. On heavier flow days, you may want to switch more often.
Do you still have to wear a pad with period underwear?
In most cases, the answer is no. Period underwear is designed to replace pads, tampons, and other menstrual products. However, for heavy flows, overnight wear, or when you’re still adjusting to period undies, you may choose to use a pad, tampon, or cup alongside them.
Handle Your Flow with Confidence
Period underwear makes managing your menstrual cycle easier, cleaner, and more comfortable. By combining multiple protective layers, period panties absorb fluid, keep you feeling dry, and prevent leaks—all while looking and feeling like regular underwear.
Soma’s leakproof panties take it one step further with advanced absorbency technology, odor control, and full-coverage liners. Whether you’re new to period underwear or ready to switch completely, Soma has a pair that’s right for you.