Finding the right menstruation product is never an easy choice for any woman. Such a wide variety of options makes it difficult to figure out which product is best for comfort, health, and convenience. The most commonly used products are period underwear and sanitary pads. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. A few women prefer the convenience of sanitary pads, whereas others like the comfort and eco-friendly nature of period underwear. In this article, we will describe the functionality, advantages, disadvantages, and environmental impacts of both these products so as to aid you in making the right decision catered to your needs.

Everything You Need to Know About Period Underwear

Period underwear refers to an undergarment used during menstruation that makes use of a unique absorbent fabric rather than depending on pads and tampons. Period underwear is crafted with several layers of super absorbent and moisture-wicking fabrics in order to avoid leaks and unpleasant smells. Unlike conventional underwear, period underwear comes in various absorbency levels to accommodate different menstrual flows.

Women who opt for period underwear appreciate its convenience and sustainability. It eliminates the need for disposable products, making it an eco-friendly choice. Many brands claim that a single pair of period underwear can last up to two years with proper care.

Although period underwear is becoming more popular, it is not an ideal option for everyone. For example, some people may find wearing period underwear during a heavy flow day uncomfortable or simply enjoy having a backup pad. Moreover, period underwear does take a longer time to wash and dry compared to disposables, which is something to keep in mind while making a choice.

Everything You Need to Know About Sanitary Pads

Sanitary pads are one of the oldest tools used in menstrual hygiene. These absorbent pads stick to the underwear and soak up the menstrual blood, making it possible for you to go about your day's work without worrying about periods.

Pads can be used with ease and have greater accessibility. Unlike many other methods, they can be purchased easily and do not need any sanitation, which makes them all the more preferable to women since they provide security during heavy flow days.

Sanitary pads also have their drawbacks. Most of them are made of synthetic materials, which are not appropriate for everyone's skin and can cause irritation. Also, the biggest challenge that comes with sanitary pads is the amount of waste the world has to deal with. According to a 2024 report, menstrual sanitary waste accounts for two hundred thousand tons per year only in the UK and Ireland.

Now, just suppose the waste load the whole world has to face just because of synthetic sanitary pads!! Alarming, right? But don't worry; we have a solution, which we will reveal by the end.

Pros and Cons: Period Underwear vs. Sanitary Pads

When talking of period underwear and sanitary pads, comfort, practical usage, and sustainability all come into play. Period underwear is appreciated the most for being reusable, comfortable, and protective of the environment.

Period underwear is pleasant to wear and minimizes the chances of getting a rash or soreness. However, it is not as easy for everyone because it needs washing after every use.

Sanitary pads offer the benefit of being disposable and are perfect for users who want a more hassle-free option. They are especially great for very long days, travelling, or times when having to wash reusable products is not an option. Unfortunately, these make a lot of waste and can contain chemicals that damage sensitive skin.

The one that's right for you depends on lifestyle and personal choice. In terms of sustainability, investing in period underwear is a wonderful option. If convenience is paramount, sanitary pads are still the trusted option. Some women can use both—period underwear for light days and sanitary pads for heavy days, which is an easy solution while being eco-friendly.

Environmental Impact: Which is More Sustainable?

The sustainability of menstrual supplies is of concern these days. The base materials of most mainstream sanitary pads are made of plastic-like materials, so each of them takes somewhere between 500 and 800 years to break down. About 11,000 sanitary pads are used by an average woman in her life. This leads to a lot of landfill waste.

On the other hand, period underwear is much more eco-friendly. Its purpose is to be reusable. Its longevity alone makes it capable of replacing hundreds of disposable items. Washing and maintaining period underwear requires water and energy, which also needs to be considered when thinking about its environmental impact.

Cost Comparison: Which One Saves More in the Long Run?

Costs incurred through a period can be crushing. A pack of sanitary pads ranges from $5 to $10, and on average, women use 15 pads every cycle. This, in turn, amounts to hundreds being spent every year.

Period underwear has higher upfront costs of $25 to $50; however, they last around 2-3 years. Over time, underwear has become more cost-friendly, but it requires an initial investment, and the majority of females require multiple pairs.

Ultimately, affordability comes down to each individual's spending and spending power. Period underwear, while an expensive initial investment, provides a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution.

Comfort and Health Considerations

When choosing a menstrual product, comfort plays an important role. Period underwear is made of soft fabric, minimizing the chances of any rashes or irritation. It provides greater mobility, makes you feel like you are wearing regular underwear, and is therefore preferred by most women.

Sanitary pads, especially the ones made up of synthetic materials, can be too uncomfortable or lead to chafing sometimes. Some conventional pads also have chemicals that can be irritating to the skin.

Our Recommendation: Organic, Eco-Friendly Sanitary Pads

If you prefer sanitary pads over period underwear but are looking for an eco-friendly alternative, then Peuriste™ organic sanitary pads are perfect for you. These pads are made from organic corn fibre and bamboo, which makes them sensitive skin friendly. Peuriste™ pads are also dermatologically tested and come with the Seal of Dermatest® Guarantee.

Be it sanitary pads or period underwear, the ultimate goal is comfort and sustainable products. Making enlightened choices contributes to personal and environmental he