Are menstrual panties an alternative to a tampon?

Approximately a quarter of the world’s population menstruates and a woman needs an average of 12,000 tampons throughout her life. These tampons become impossible recycling waste. They may also contain compounds that are harmful to women’s health. These are reasons enough to take a look at alternatives like period panties.

How do menstrual panties work?

Menstrual panties are garments similar to conventional panties but that come with an integrated absorbent pad consisting of several layers:

The first layer ensures that you always feel dry as directs the liquid in.The following is a antibacterial and absorbent layer. The biocides that permeate it prevent bacteria from multiplying and causing unpleasant odours. Depending on the manufacturer and model, the layer absorbs the amount that corresponds to between one and three tampons. The outermost layer consists of a liquid impervious membrane so that it does not pass through and the clothes remain dry.

All models are made with black fabric in the crotch to avoid unsightly stains.

You can wash the menstrual panty at 40 degrees together with the rest of the clothes. However, you must rinse them beforehand with cold water and avoid the use of fabric softeners and bleach, as well as the use of a dryer and an iron.

Sustainability and alternatives

Seen from outside, the menstrual vogue they look like normal underwear. These types of undergarments are only one to two millimeters thicker in the crotch area. Manufacturers offer models of different cuts, most of which are mainly made of cotton, so they are comfortable to wear. The price of this type of garment is between 20 and 40 euros, depending on the manufacturer.

Menstrual panties can be worn for a period of two years without losing their antibacterial effect. Some manufacturers even extend the period to four to five years. As a result, underwear is much more sustainable compared to tampons and sanitary napkins, and similar to the menstrual cup. both products They will help you reduce waste.

Another alternative would be to use washable cloth pads.that you can find in the market or you can even make them yourself following the instructions offered in different tutorials that you can find on the net.

How many hours can you wear period panties?

According to what the manufacturers say, in case of having light periods or on days of less important bleeding you can wear the panties exclusively. If, on the other hand, your period is abundant, you can also use other collection methods, such as the menstrual cup or ecological tampons.

If you want to do without conventional menstrual products and your bleeding is heavy, the manufacturers recommend Change your menstrual panties at least every six hours. When you are away from home, it is better for this need to take with you a replacement menstrual panties and a reusable and waterproof bag to store your used panties safely.

Do they contain problematic substances?

The antibacterial layer of menstrual panties is usually treated with biocides to prevent unpleasant odors and prevent infection. However, the substances biocides (anitibiotics) can cause allergic reactions and affect the bacterial flora. In addition, they can favor the development of bacteria resistant to antibiotic drugs.

Biocides such as zinc pyrithione or silver chloride have long been criticized. They are suspected of endangering fertility or causing allergies. In addition, the substances can dissolve during washing and harm aquatic organisms.

The composition of the other layers varies depending on the model, but all incorporate synthetic fibers, in addition to cotton, especially in the waterproof layer. This is particularly problematic when washing, since They release microplastics into the water.

To collect the microplastics released by your clothes (all synthetic, not just menstrual panties) you can use the special laundry bags that trap them.