Period pants: wear, change, wash
Period pants are reusable underwear made to absorb period blood.
- Wear — Put them on like normal underwear.
- Absorb — Built-in layers soak up blood.
- Change — when full, wet or uncomfortable.
- Wash — Rinse or wash as needed.
- Dry — fully before wearing again.
Ask a trusted adult if you need help washing or storing them.
Quick answer
Period pants are underwear with absorbent layers that soak up period blood. They are designed to be washed and used again.
How do period pants work?
Period pants look like underwear, but they have special absorbent layers. They soak up blood in a similar way to a pad, but they are built into the pants.
Are they only for light periods?
Some period pants are for light flow, and some are made for heavier flow. Check the label or product information. On heavy days, some people use period pants with another period product for extra protection.
How often should I change them?
Change them when they feel wet, full or uncomfortable. Everyone’s flow is different, and some people need more than one pair for a full day.
How do I wash them?
Many period pants need to be rinsed or washed, then dried fully before wearing again. Do not hide used period pants in a bag for a long time — ask a trusted adult how to wash and store them.
What if I am worried someone will know?
Period pants usually look like normal underwear. You do not have to tell people what product you are using unless you want help.
What if they leak?
Leaks can happen if your flow is heavier than the pants can hold, if they have been worn too long, or if they do not fit well. Try changing sooner, using a higher absorbency pair, or asking a trusted adult for help.
Ask Luma
You could ask: “How do period pants work?” or “What should I do if my period pants leak?”
Final reassurance
Period pants can be a comfortable option for some people. They are not the only option, and it is okay to try something different if they do not work for you.
Developer source note
Content is grounded in NHS period product guidance, NHS toxic shock syndrome guidance, UNICEF menstrual health and hygiene principles, and the user-supplied BBC News link for current public discussion of period products. Final live pages should keep source links in the CMS or editorial notes.