These are the best period pants for teens that are a convenient alternative to tampons and pads

Period pants for teens can help minimise the awkwardness of getting your period for the first time, because, let’s face it, it can be really daunting. The old tale of it signifying ‘womanhood’ is exactly that: dated. Though it’s most common for people to start menstruation around the age of 12, some people can begin bleeding as young as eight. Does that sound like a fully-fledged adult to you? Didn’t think so.

What’s even more frightening is the idea of inserting a tampon or wearing a pad on top of juggling things like cramps, mood swings and cravings. If you – or a teen you know – can relate then why not welcome the idea of period pants for teens? They make dealing with things a whole lot easier, without the need to faff about in the bathroom for hours trying to adhere a sanitary pad/towel to their underwear or install a tampon in the correct position.

Everything you need to know about period pants for teens

Unlike menstrual cups or anything similar, period pants are exactly what they say on the tin: pants teens can wear during their TOTM (time of the month). They soak everything up and keep it all contained, so they needn’t worry about leaking, and they’re totally reusable. Essentially, period pants have a built-in sanitary liner that they won’t have to change and throw away every three-four hours – they can literally slip them on and forget about them until the end of the day. Super convenient for teenagers who are always running on a last-minute time schedule.

In terms of just how much blood they hold and how long they can wear them for, well that’s really down to the pair you choose. Have a quick read of the descriptions as this will determine which style is best. If you/they tend to have a heavy flow, something like Modibodi’s maxi hipster bikini briefs might be preferable as they’ve been tested to hold up to 10 tampons’ worth of blood. Elsewhere, Wuka’s Ultimate Midi Tween Briefs hold four tampons’ worth of blood, equalling a whole days’ worth of protection for moderate flows.

Period pants for teens are really discreet, they don’t give the nappy-like look that people assume they do, but if they’re really fussy about VPL (aren’t we all?), then opt for a seamless pair like Flux Undies’ bikini style or WUKA’s Teen Stretch Seamless knickers (which are on sale, FYI).

And when it comes to washing them? Simply give them a rinse with cold water before putting them on a dark wash between 30℃ and 40℃ and air drying them. Try not to use fabric softener, though, as this will make them less absorbent over time.

Be sure to check out our guide to period swimwear too. Yep, it exists! And for more from GLAMOUR UK’s Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.

Ready to find the best period pants for teens? Find our top picks below.