My ode to period pants: how this sustainable alternative changed my life

All your questions about how period pants work, answered by a recent devotee

Rebecca Fearn

21 September 2022

Without sounding too TMI (something I am slightly known for), I have always struggled with my period care. I’ve never been one to wear tampons, so have inevitably turned to sanitary pads my entire life – bear in mind this was way before the vast range of sustainable, reusable options we have today had entered the market.

That is, until about 12 months ago, when I was first sent a pair of period pants from CBD brand Ohne – and no exaggeration, my life completely changed.

I’ve always dreaded my period for the obvious reasons: that icky PMS a few days beforehand, the agonising aches and pains only eased by a hot water bottle and very large chocolate bar, and the mood swings, which tend to hit me badly – much to the joy of pretty much everyone I know. But in addition to this, my period has always been a nightmare because I’m just always so damn uncomfortable.

Pads are not the epitome of comfort – I sort of always feel like I’m wearing a big nappy for five days straight (sorry not sorry). I was searching for an alternative that was practical, more sustainable, and made me feel as comfy as possible during a time of inevitable discomfort.

Since, period pants have genuinely solved many of my period woes, and – aside from the odd occasion – I rarely stray from them now. So what exactly are they?

What are period pants and how do they work?

“Behaving very much like regular underwear, period pants are designed to offer the wearer full protection during their flow, without the need for extra precautions, whilst also being super comfortable all day long,” explains Leah Remfry-Pepoe, CEO and co-founder of Ohne.

Essentially, period pants work by soaking up menstrual blood using moisture-wicking material. In my experience, they tend to last anywhere between a couple of hours, to a whole night in bed.

On my heaviest days when I am out and about, I usually still do use pads as they are easier to change on the go. But while at home, or when I have a slightly lighter flow, I reach for them all day (and night) long, changing when I begin to feel the fabric is not absorbing moisture as much as it had been.

The vast range of options on offer now allow you to pick up pairs for all times of day and points of your period. While there are styles for heavy flows overnight, there are also alternatives for moderate and light days, too.

As you’re likely thinking RN, this does mean the initial spend for your period pant ‘wardrobe’ can be a little pricey, especially in comparison to a box of tampons or pads. But over time, you will actually save money, as you’ll have reusable period care at your disposal. Plus, you can buy some really great multipacks on the high street now that won’t break the bank. Or like I have, you can just build up your collection slowly, month by month.

Are period pants sustainable more sustainable than sanitary products?

As well as comfort, I also feel like I’m doing my bit for the planet by converting to the period pant life. It’s a reusable and sustainable alternative to single-use options, meaning less packaging and waste.

“As they are reusable, pants allow us to cut back on single use materials that are found in the more ‘traditional’ period care on the market – some mainstream pads take up to 500 years to decompose,” says Remfry-Pepoe.

This is one of the biggest selling points for others who bleed too, she adds.

“The period space has been revolutionised in recent years, following a backlash of gendered period products, marketed around shame and secrecy, with limited options for being eco-conscious. This attitude has come at a time where people are shifting towards gaining a deeper understanding of their bodies and the planet they inhabit.”

Which period pants should I buy?

There’s a huge range of incredible pants about these days, and I’ve pretty much tried them all. I’ve popped in my favourites below, but in general I prefer sticking to comfortable high waisted styles and designs in darker colours (just my personal preference).

6 of the best period pants

Best overall: High waist period pants, £29, Ohne

The period pants that sold me on the entire concept initially, these are still my favourite. Super soft and effective for hours, they’re hard to beat.

Best on the high street: 3 Pack mixed absorbency period high leg knickers, £20, M&S

A multi-pack is a brilliant way to get more for your money and to try out different absorbency levels.

Best for swimming: Period swimsuit, £49.99, Wuka

Think you have to reach for the tampons again if going off for a swim? Think again. This works for lighter days but can still be trusted.

Best for affordability: Hipster basics for medium flow, £12, Wuka

I really can’t fault these period pants, particularly in this style. As well as online, I’ve seen them in my local supermarket so they’re super easy to snap up.