How Does Period Underwear Work?

How it works

Quick answer

Period underwear works by soaking up blood in absorbent layers built into the crotch. A moisture barrier helps stop it from reaching your clothes. You wear it like normal underwear, then wash it and wear it again.

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Kischt Period Underwear, Noir (black), $24.95. 30-day returns. Free shipping over $50.

Close-up of the absorbent layers that make Kischt period underwear work
  • Absorbent layers soak up blood.
  • A moisture barrier helps stop leaks.
  • You wear it like normal underwear.
  • You wash it and wear it again.
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What Is Period Underwear?

Period underwear is underwear with period protection built in. It looks like a normal pair. People also call it period panties, period pants or period undies.

You can wear it on its own. On your heaviest days, you can wear it with a tampon or cup for extra help.

Front view of Kischt Noir high-waisted period underwear that looks like a normal pair

How Does Period Underwear Work, Step by Step

  1. You put it on

    Wear it like any pair of underwear. There is nothing to insert and no pad to stick on.

  2. The layers soak up blood

    Blood soaks into the absorbent layers in the crotch. Kischt has three of them, made for heavier flow days.

  3. A barrier helps stop leaks

    A moisture barrier inside helps stop blood reaching your clothes. In Kischt, the protective part also runs up toward the back.

  4. You change, rinse and wash it

    Change it when it feels damp or full. Rinse it in cold water, wash it and let it dry fully. Check the care label.

What Is Period Underwear Made Of?

It depends on the brand. Most pairs use soft, stretchy fabric, with absorbent layers and a barrier in the crotch. Some brands use cotton.

Kischt is made of soft, breathable nylon and elastane. It is light and stretchy, with a fine, mesh-like feel.

Does Period Underwear Really Work?

Yes. It soaks up blood and helps stop leaks when the pair suits your flow and fits well.

How long one pair lasts in a day depends on your flow. Check it during the day while you learn how it works for you. On your heaviest days, you may need to change sooner or add a tampon, cup or pad.

Back view of Kischt Noir period underwear, where the protective part runs up toward the back
Kischt Period Underwear, Noir (black)

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Kischt Period Underwear, Noir (black) · $24.95

Sizes XS to 4XL. You have 30 days to request a refund.

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Or save with the 5-pack: $17.99 a pair

Questions? Email hello@kischt.com.

Common questions

What are period panties?

Period panties are underwear with period protection built in. They are also called period underwear or period pants.

What is period underwear made of?

It depends on the brand. Kischt is soft, breathable nylon and elastane, with three absorbent layers and a moisture barrier.

Do period underwear really work?

Yes, when the pair suits your flow. On your heaviest days, you may need to change sooner or add a tampon, cup or pad.

Can you wear period underwear without a pad?

Yes. The protection is built in. On your heaviest days, you can add a tampon, cup or pad if you like.

How do reusable period underwear work?

They soak up blood like any period underwear. After you wear them, you rinse, wash and dry them. Then you wear them again.

More guides

See all guides: Period Underwear Guide: Every Question Answered

Updated by the Kischt team.

This page is general information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you are worried about your health.

Returns: you have 30 days after you get your order to request a refund. Details are in the return policy.