Are Period Panties Good Or Gross? This Reddit Forum Is Here To Answer

Periods come with choices. For decades, most women have relied on pads and tampons. In recent years, menstrual cups have entered the scene, offering an eco-friendly alternative. And then there's period underwear, often described as the most revolutionary (and sometimes divisive) product in the menstrual care and feminine hygiene market.

Period panties can be worn alone on light days or as backup with a cup or tampon.
Photo Credit: Pexels

They look like regular underwear, but with built-in absorbent layers designed to capture menstrual blood. To some, they're a liberating, waste-free solution. To others, they're inconvenient, damp, and dare we say it, slightly gross.

Also Read: How To Relieve Back Pain, Period Cramps and More: Just Check Out These Top 5 Heating Pads

To get past the marketing gloss and into real-life experiences, we explored a Reddit thread in the AskWomenOver30 community where one user posed a simple question: "What's up with period panties, are they kinda gross or a godsend?” The responses were candid, thoughtful, and incredibly useful for anyone considering their first pair.

What Exactly Are Period Panties?

Period panties are designed with several layers of fabric that wick away moisture, absorb blood, and prevent leaks. Unlike pads, they're built into the underwear itself, meaning you don't have to “attach” anything. They come in different absorbency levels, some can hold the equivalent of two to three tampons' worth of blood, while others are made just for spotting.

In short, they can be used in three ways:

1. As a standalone option (replacing pads or tampons on light-to-medium flow days).
2. As a backup to menstrual cups, tampons, or discs.
3. For spotting or overnight wear, when the flow is unpredictable.

But how does this actually play out in everyday life? Redditors had plenty to say.

The Case For Period Panties: Why They Work For So Many

Many women find period panties comfortable and more eco-friendly than pads.
Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Peace of Mind Against Leaks

Leaks are one of the biggest anxieties during menstruation, and period underwear offers a practical safety net. DotCottonCandy shared how she pairs them with a menstrual cup, “I find period panties great for very light days at the beginning and end of my period, and used in conjunction with a cup or a disc on heavier days.”

This double protection helps prevent accidents, especially during long workdays or overnight.

2. A Sustainable, Long-Term Option

Disposable pads and tampons add up, not just in cost but also in environmental waste. One user, croptopweather, has been using hers for years. She noted, “Haven't had to buy or store pads much in years. It's prevented hundreds of pads from going to the landfill from my use over the years.” Though good period panties can cost anywhere between ₹500 - ₹3,000 per pair, they often last several years, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

3. Comfort Without Bulk

Unlike pads, which can feel plasticky and shift around, period underwear looks and feels like regular knickers. HotAirBalloonPolice noted how freeing it felt. She said, “The freedom of not worrying about leaks is amazing.”

Many women find them more breathable than pads, particularly overnight. For those with sensitive skin, the absence of adhesive and synthetic materials is another plus.

4. Long Lifespan With Proper Care

If cared for correctly, period underwear lasts. croptopweather mentioned hers have lasted almost a decade, with only a couple of pairs needing replacement. When compared with the monthly cost of disposables, this makes them a worthy investment for many.

The Downsides: Where Period Panties Fall Short

Washing and drying them properly is essential for hygiene and durability.
Photo Credit: Pexels

Despite the glowing reviews, not everyone is sold. A number of Redditors pointed out practical inconveniences and discomforts that potential buyers should consider.

1. The Inconvenience Of Changing

Unlike pads or tampons, changing period underwear outside the home isn't simple. As DotCottonCandy explained, “I don't want to have to strip and change underwear and carry a wet pair around when I'm out of the house.” For women who are often on the move or have long workdays, this can be a dealbreaker.

2. Laundry Hassles

Caring for period panties requires extra effort. They need to be rinsed in cold water before going into the wash, and they often take longer to dry. croptopweather admitted, “With my lack of in-unit laundry and my small living space, I have a bag of used pairs waiting to be washed.”

For those without easy access to laundry facilities or quick-drying areas, this can feel like an added chore.

3. Not Reliable For Heavy Flows

While some brands market high-absorbency versions, many users find them less reliable on heavy days. lauradiamandis said, “I'll bleed through on a heavy day at work so I don't totally trust them to last a whole shift.” This highlights an important point: period panties often work best as part of a “combo system” with other menstrual products, rather than a complete replacement.

4. Sensation And Smell

Perhaps the most divisive aspect is how they feel. Some women dislike the sensation of sitting in moisture or worry about odour. lauradiamandis shared her frustration, “I feel like you very much smell like blood and they don't feel totally dry. They also feel pretty thick and to me not much better than a pad.”

This reaction is personal, some women don't mind at all, while others find it unpleasant enough to avoid using them except occasionally.

Who Are Period Panties Best For?

Based on the forum's insights, period panties are ideal for:

• Women with light to moderate flows.
• Those who want a backup layer to prevent leaks with cups, tampons, or discs.
• People seeking a sustainable, low-waste lifestyle.
• Women who want comfortable overnight protection.
• Those with irregular cycles or spotting.

But they may not be the best choice for:

• Women with very heavy flows.
• People who dislike laundry chores or lack drying space.
• Those who find the wet sensation or odour off-putting.
• Anyone who needs to change frequently while away from home.

So, Is It Good Or Gross?

From the Reddit thread, one thing is clear: period panties are not universally adored, but they are genuinely life-changing for the right person.

They're good if you want comfort, leak protection, and a sustainable option that cuts down on waste. They're also excellent for overnight use, lighter flow days, or as a backup. They may feel gross if you dislike the sensation of moisture, struggle with laundry logistics, or have very heavy flows that demand frequent changes.

The best advice? Start small. Buy one or two pairs from a trusted brand, test them out on lighter days or at home, and see how they fit into your routine. Menstrual care is deeply personal, what feels freeing to one woman may feel uncomfortable to another.

Products Related To This Article

1. JOCKEY SW05 Super Combed Cotton Elastane Stretch With StayFresh Treatment Periods Panty

2. Blossom Pack Of 2 Women Periods Multicolor Panty

3. Healthfab Gopadfree Heavy Reusable Leak Proof Period Panty

4. Mildcares Women Periods Black Panty

5. Healthfab Gopadfree Heavy Reusable Leak Proof Period Panty

6. LAVOS Pack Of 2 Women Periods Black

7. Superbottoms Pack Of 2 Women Periods Panty

8. BE ME Pack Of 3 Super Absorb Reusable Women Periods Panty

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are period panties hygienic?

Yes, period panties are designed with moisture-wicking and anti-microbial layers. When washed properly, they are as hygienic as pads or cups.

2. Can you wear period panties all day?

It depends on your flow and the brand. On light days, they can last all day, but most women prefer changing or pairing them with a cup or tampon on heavy days.

3. How do you wash period panties?

Rinse them in cold water first, then machine wash with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners as they reduce absorbency. Air dry for best results.

4. Do period panties smell?

If changed regularly and washed properly, they shouldn't smell. However, some users report a slight odour on heavy flow days.

5. How long do period panties last?

With proper care, they can last anywhere from 2 to 10 years, depending on quality and frequency of use.

*Click Here To Go To Reddit Thread By AskWomenOver30