Let’s face it—your period isn’t something you can ignore. It’s a regular part of life that calls for reliable, comfortable protection. But with the variety of menstrual products out there, making the best choice for you can feel overwhelming. Two major players in this space are period underwear and pads.
So, how do you decide which type of period product is better for your needs? Let's break it down, layer by layer.
What are Period Underwear or Pads?
Period underwear is exactly what it sounds like—underwear designed to absorb menstrual blood. This underwear has absorbent layers built right in, so there’s no need to wear a separate pad, tampon, or menstrual cup. We revolutionized the idea of comfort by offering stylish options, such as high-waisted period underwear and bikini period underwear, that feel like your regular underwear but handle your period flow effectively.
Pads (also called sanitary pads or menstrual pads) are external products made from layers of absorbent material. You stick them to your underwear, and they collect menstrual fluid from the outside. They come in different varieties, from overnight pads to maxi pads, to suit various flow levels.
While both options exist to manage menstrual blood, they offer unique benefits and drawbacks based on absorbency, comfort, and sustainability. So, let’s dive into the comparison of these two period champions!
Absorbency Comparison: Period Underwear vs. Pads
Absorbency is a big deal when it comes to choosing the right menstrual product. After all, nobody wants a leak to disrupt their day.
Period underwear is available in a variety of absorbency levels, ranging from light to super heavy. Some period underwear can hold as much as five tampons’ worth of menstrual fluid, making them a go-to for people with a heavier menstrual flow. One of the key perks of period underwear is that you can wear it all day, especially during lighter flow days, without needing to change it frequently.
However, pads—particularly disposable pads—tend to be more specialized in absorbency. Whether you’re using a thin liner for a light day or an overnight pad for heavy flow, pads are designed for quick changes throughout the day. Many women feel reassured knowing they can swap out a pad as often as needed, but that can mean packing extras with you, which can be less convenient when you’re on the go.
Comfort and Convenience
Let’s be real: comfort during your period is crucial. You already feel bloated, tired, and cranky—why add uncomfortable menstrual products to the mix?
Period Underwear for Comfort
One of the biggest selling points of period underwear is how comfortable it is. They’re designed to feel like your everyday undies. If you choose the right fit and absorbency level, you might even forget you’re on your period! Menstrual underwear is often made from soft materials like organic cotton that are gentle on your skin, making them a great option for people who struggle with irritation from traditional products. Plus, there’s no bulky feeling. Period underwear can handle your menstrual flow without feeling like a diaper.
Pads for Convenience
While pads don’t exactly win the comfort competition, they can be incredibly convenient. If you’ve got a heavy flow and need to change your pad multiple times a day, it’s easy to just carry a few extra in your bag. No need to worry about washing and drying, as you would with reusable menstrual products like period underwear. For people who are always on the go, this easy swap can be a lifesaver.
However, pads can feel bulky, especially if you’re using thicker varieties like maxi pads. And let’s not forget that annoying sticky feeling when a pad shifts around in your regular underwear. Not exactly ideal when you’re running errands or trying to focus at work. In terms of comfort, pads can feel restrictive, especially if you’re used to the freedom of reusable underwear or tampons.
Environmental Impact: Sustainable Options
Sustainability is on many people's minds these days, especially when it comes to products we use frequently, like menstrual care products. The environmental impact of pads versus period underwear is a crucial factor for eco-conscious consumers.
Period underwear is a reusable period product, which means you can wear and wash it again and again, significantly reducing waste. Most period underwear is designed to last for years when taken care of well, offering a sustainable solution to managing your menstrual cycle. If you're concerned about reducing your carbon footprint, reusable period underwear is the clear winner.
On the flip side, disposable pads and other traditional sanitary napkins contribute to landfill waste, which can have a long-lasting environmental footprint. That’s why we use eco-friendly materials like organic cotton in our disposables. Whether you choose a disposable or reusable product from Rael, you can be assured that we’re considering your needs and the environment.
Which Is Right for You? Factors to Consider
So, how do you choose between period underwear vs. pads? The answer depends on several personal factors: your flow, lifestyle, comfort preferences, and sustainability priorities.
- Flow: If you have a heavier flow, pads—especially overnight pads—might offer the best security. However, period underwear can provide just as much protection without needing to change as often. For light days, either option could work, but period underwear might feel more natural and comfortable.
- Lifestyle: Do you lead an active lifestyle? If you’re always on the go or need a menstrual product that you can wear for long hours, period underwear could be the answer. But if you prefer something quick and easy to change throughout the day, disposable pads or even reusable pads may be better suited for you.
- Comfort: If comfort is your top priority, period underwear is designed to feel like your everyday underwear. They’re often softer, less irritating, and move with your body more naturally. Pads might be more convenient in certain situations, but they tend to be bulkier.
- Eco-Friendliness: For those prioritizing the environment, reusable underwear is a more sustainable choice compared to the waste generated by disposable pads. However, if you’re not ready to commit fully to period underwear, using reusable pads or combining both options is a great step toward reducing waste.
Hybrid Solutions: The Best of Both Worlds?
For many, the idea of combining period underwear with other traditional products like pads, tampons, or a menstrual cup offers the ultimate flexibility. On heavier days, some women choose to wear reusable period underwear in addition to a tampon or menstrual cup as a backup for extra protection. This layering approach provides peace of mind, especially when you’re dealing with unpredictable flows or long days when bathroom breaks aren’t convenient.
Another hybrid option is wearing pads with period underwear. Our reusable pads are made from materials like organic cotton, which offers an eco-friendly alternative and are easy to wash along with your period underwear. This pairing is eco-conscious and gives you the absorbency you need on heavier days.
If you’re unsure whether you’re ready to commit to period underwear full-time, using them at night can be a great place to start. Many find that period panties are incredibly comfortable for sleeping because they feel like regular underwear but offer the protection of an overnight pad without the bulk.
Incorporating a mix of different products allows you to experiment and find what works best for your body and lifestyle.
Make the Choice That Fits You Best
At the end of the day, the best choice between period underwear vs. pads is deeply personal. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer because everyone has different periods and comfort preferences.
If you value comfort and eco-friendliness, period underwear may be the solution you’ve been searching for. They’re sustainable, soft, and designed for all-day wear without the hassle of frequent changes. If you’re more focused on convenience or have a particularly heavy flow, pads—especially overnight pads—could offer the peace of mind you need.
For many people, a combination of both works best. Some rely on period underwear for lighter days and pads for when their menstrual flow is heavier. Others use menstrual cups, tampons, or menstrual discs alongside their period underwear for an extra layer of protection. Shop our Black Friday Skin Care & Period Care deals that include a wide range of products for your menstrual cycle.
Ultimately, it's about finding what works for you. Whether it’s embracing a new era of comfort with menstrual underwear or sticking to tried-and-true pads, trust that you know your body best. Stay comfortable, stay secure, and make a choice that aligns with your lifestyle and values.