In recent years, menstrual underwear has become a popular alternative to disposable period products. Reusable, comfortable, and more eco-friendly, it allows for more sustainable period management.
But one question often arises: how does menstrual underwear actually work? Understanding its function helps in choosing the right protection for one's flow and experiencing periods with more peace of mind.
What is menstrual underwear?
Menstrual underwear looks like regular underwear, but it is designed with several layers of absorbent technical fabrics capable of retaining menstrual flow.
Unlike tampons or disposable pads, menstrual underwear can be washed and reused for several years. It can be worn alone or in addition to other protection depending on the intensity of the flow.
The different layers of menstrual underwear
The functioning of menstrual underwear is based on innovative textile technology generally composed of three to four layers of fabric.
The wicking layer
The first layer is in direct contact with the skin.
Its role is to:
- quickly capture the flow
- maintain a dry feeling
- limit moisture
This layer is often made with soft and breathable textiles.
The absorbent layer
The second layer's function is to absorb menstrual flow. It is composed of textile fibers capable of retaining several milliliters of liquid.
Depending on the models and brands, a pair of menstrual underwear can absorb the equivalent of 1 to 5 tampons.
The waterproof layer
The third layer acts as a barrier to prevent leaks.
It prevents liquid from passing through the fabric while remaining breathable.
This layer guarantees safety and protection for several hours.
The outer layer
The last layer corresponds to the outer fabric of the underwear.
It is designed to resemble classic underwear and ensure comfort and discretion. 👉 Discover Sherydane's innovative menstrual underwear technology
How long can menstrual underwear be worn?
The duration of use of menstrual underwear depends on the intensity of the flow: light, moderate, heavy, very heavy, or hemorrhagic. As every body and every cycle is different, the indicated absorption time for each model remains an estimate. It is therefore important to listen to your body and adapt the use of the underwear to your menstrual flow to ensure optimal comfort.
Generally, menstrual underwear can be worn between 4 and 16 hours.
Some women use it:
- alone for light to moderate flow
- alone or with 1 to 2 changes of underwear for very heavy flow
- in addition to other protection (washable or disposable pads, menstrual cup, disc...) for very heavy flow
It is recommended to adapt the protection to the intensity of the flow for optimal comfort.
How to wash menstrual underwear?
The care of menstrual underwear is simple.
The recommended steps are:
- rinse with cold water after use
- machine wash at 30° or 40°
- avoid fabric softener, very fatty Marseille soap
-
air dry
With proper care, menstrual underwear can last several years. 👉 Learn more about Sherydane care tips?
Why choose menstrual underwear?
Many women today choose menstrual underwear for several reasons.
Comfort
It wears like classic underwear and offers a feeling of freedom.
Reliable and sustainable solution
Reusable for several years, it reduces menstrual waste and saves money. It is toxin-free and made from more sustainable materials for brands manufacturing in Europe. Strict labels, quality, and know-how are guaranteed for products made in France.
Ease of use
It requires no insertion and can be easily used daily. Unlike some internal protections, it does not pose a risk of toxic shock syndrome and can help limit irritation or intimate discomfort.
Sherydane menstrual underwear
At Sherydane, menstrual underwear has been designed to support women with reliable, healthy, comfortable, and sustainable protection.
The models are made with GOTS certified organic cotton, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified textiles, guaranteeing the complete absence of harmful substances for the skin.
The underwear is:
- designed in Switzerland
- ethically manufactured in France
- designed to combine comfort, efficiency, and elegance
👉 Discover Sherydane's organic menstrual underwear: https://sherydane.com
A global approach to menstrual well-being
Taking care of oneself during periods is not limited to the choice of protection.
Certain habits can also improve comfort during the cycle:
- adopt an appropriate diet: what to eat during periods to feel better?
- engage in gentle activity
- drink well-being infusions
The Sherydane Moon Tea has been designed to support women during their cycle and promote a moment of relaxation and fullness.
Understanding your cycle to better choose your protection
Every woman experiences her cycle differently. Some have light flow, others heavier.
Understanding the different phases of the menstrual cycle allows you to choose the most suitable protections. 👉 To learn more, consult our complete guide to periods and the menstrual cycle.
Mini FAQ: menstrual underwear
Can menstrual underwear replace tampons?
Yes, many women use menstrual underwear alone, especially for light, moderate, and heavy flows.
Can menstrual underwear be worn all day?
The duration depends on the flow. Generally, it can be worn between 6 and 12 hours.
How many pairs of menstrual underwear do you need?
Most women use 3 to 7 pairs of menstrual underwear to cover a full cycle. The number of period underwear depends on the length of the cycle, as for some women it can be 3 days and for others 7 to 10 days. The advantage of having several pairs of underwear is to have spares when others are washed and air-drying. 👉 Discover Sherydane's organic menstrual underwear economy packs
Is menstrual underwear hygienic?
Yes, if properly washed and maintained. The absorbent fabrics are designed to remain breathable and limit moisture.
Is menstrual underwear difficult to maintain?
No, it's simple. It should be rinsed with cold water to remove blood, hand-washed or machine-washed at 30° or 40°, and air-dried. Good maintenance allows menstrual underwear to be used for several years. It is economical in the long run.