Materials: nylon, lycra, cotton, spandex | Sizes: S to XXXL | Colors: black
Best for Teens: Proof Teen Period & Leakproof Moderate Absorbency Boyshorts
Why it’s worth it: This pair of full-coverage underwear is designed specifically for teenagers and can be worn while playing sports, sleeping, or just going about their day—thanks to nylon and spandex construction that’s easy to move in and a leak-resistant lining. Proof’s Teen Period Moderate Absorbency Boyshorts look like any other pair of underwear, so even if you’re changing in the locker room or at a sleepover, it’s not obvious that they’re wearing period underwear. In terms of storage, expect it to hold up to three pads’ or tampons’ worth of liquid.
Materials: nylon, spandex, polyester, acrylate | Sizes: S to XL | Colors: 2 (black, tie-dye)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does period underwear work?
Simply put, period underwear absorbs menstrual blood and prevents leaking. Different materials can be used to achieve this, but some common ones are polyester, nylon, and spandex. Most pairs of period underwear have a gusset, which is basically an insert with multiple layers of fabric to absorb and hold onto menstrual blood until it’s time to wash your pair. “The innovation in the underwear is more absorbent than a pad or tampon and can be worn for longer periods of time, and/or a heavier central cycle,” explains Monica Grover, MD, a double-board certified ob-gyn and chief medical officer of VSPOT.
How much menstruation can period underwear hold?
It depends on the pair. All the products in this story disclose how much liquid they can hold on the product description pages. The least absorbent pair featured in this roundup can hold half a tampon’s worth of liquid; the most absorbent pair can hold nine super tampons’ worth of liquid. The rest fall somewhere in the middle. If you’re choosing a pair, think about how many tampons or pads you typically use during your period on a heavy, medium, or light day, and look for a pair that accommodates this amount.
How do I wash period underwear?
All the pairs featured here include washing instructions. They can vary slightly from pair to pair, but most should be pre-rinsed in cold water, machine-washed or hand-washed in cold water with gentle detergent, and laid flat or hung to dry. Some can go in the dryer on a low setting. Whatever the case, carefully read through the instructions, generally available on the brand’s website.
Is it okay to wear period underwear all day?
We’ve all been traumatized by tales of toxic shock syndrome caused by leaving a tampon in for too long. Luckily, you don’t have to worry about that with period underwear. “Yes, it is okay to wear period underwear all day,” confirms Dr. Grover. “In fact, it was designed for that. For heavier flows, you may have to swap or use in combination with a cup, disc, or tampon.”
Do gynecologists recommend period underwear?
“Gynecologists, myself included, recommend whatever product is comfortable, affordable, and fits your lifestyle,” says Dr. LoPiano. “Everyone has different needs and comfort levels; the great part about period underwear is that it is an option. More options to fit a variety of lifestyles and needs is a good thing!”