Getting your period for the first time can be really daunting. The old tale of it signifying ‘womanhood’ is exactly that: dated. Though it’s most common for people to start menstruation around the age of 12, some people can begin bleeding as young as eight. Does that sound like the age of a fully-fledged adult to you? Didn’t think so.
What’s even more frightening is the idea of inserting a tampon or wearing a pad on top of juggling things like cramps, mood swings and cravings. If you – or a teen you know – can relate then why welcome the idea of period pants for teens? They can help minimise the awkwardness of it all, and make dealing with things a whole lot easier – no need for faffing about in the bathroom for hours trying to adhere a pad to their underwear or install a tampon in the correct position.
Everything you need to know about period pants for teens
Unlike menstrual cups or anything similar, period pants are exactly what they say on the tin: pants teens can wear during their TOTM (time of the month). They soak everything up and keep it all contained, so they needn’t worry about leaking, and they’re totally reusable. Essentially, period pants have a built-in sanitary liner that they won’t have to change and throw away every three-four hours – they can literally slip them on and forget about them until the end of the day. Super convenient for teenagers who are always running on a last-minute time schedule.
In terms of just how much blood they hold and how long they can wear them for, well that’s really down to the pair you choose. Have a quick read of the descriptions as this will determine which style is best. If you/they tend to have a heavy flow, something like Modibodi’s heavy-overnight sleep shorts or the hipster bikini style might be preferable. These styles have been tested to hold up to 50ml of blood a day.
Period pants for teens are really discreet, they don’t give the nappy-like look that people assume they do, but if they’re really fussy about VPL (aren’t we all?), then opt for a seamless pair like Flux Undies’ bikini style.
And when it comes to washing them? Simply give them a rinse with cold water before putting them on a dark wash between 30℃ and 40℃ and air drying them. Try not to use fabric softener, though, as this will make them less absorbent over time.
Don’t forget to grab yourself a pair while you browse for the teenager in your life, we’ve rounded up the best period pants for adults, too.
For more from GLAMOUR UK’s Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.