Towels et sanitary tampons are generators of waste. However, pollution is suffocating the planet. We must act! Every woman throws, on average, during his life, 17,000 sanitary napkins and applicators, i.e. between 100 and 150 kg of waste. But, globally, this represents 7 billion tampons and 12 billion sanitary napkins. And the periodic protection take approximately 500 years to degrade! So, can we do otherwise? Yes. What is certain is that we can reduce these figures.
Menstrual panties: how do they work?
As it is something new, washable menstrual panties or period panties requires a small learning period.
Period panties not really suitable for heavy flows
According to our two experts, however, they are more suited to certain profiles of women.
What Sokona Martin confirms: “Menstrual panties are ideal for light to normal flow. Beyond that, you can wear the ‘night’ model, the bottom of which is lined and which protects for 6 to 8 hours maximum. »
What is toxic shock syndrome?
The toxic shock syndrome has been increasing in France since the 2000s: from 5 cases in 2004, there are now around twenty cases each year. However, this is very little compared to the number of women who menstruate each month.
« We need to stop scaring women and say that toxic shock syndrome is linked to tampon use,” says Dr. Odile Bagot, gynecologist. “It is a pathology of young women, linked to periods. It may occur both with a tampon and with a cup ».
Periodic protections: manufacturers obliged to mention certain information on the composition
Since April 2024, a decree guarantees better information concerning the composition and risks linked to the use of feminine intimate protection products. First of all, manufacturers must necessarily mention the list of components. Then, the decree requires the presence of the mention terms and precautions for use, as well as “possible adverse effects (irritation, intolerance, allergies, microtrauma) or more serious ones such as toxic shock syndrome. In the case of textile articles, such as period panties, the list of components must meet the harmonized European legislation imposing rules for displaying the composition of textile products.
Menstrual panties: what absorption capacity?
Depending on the brand, period panties are made of cotton (which can come from organic farming), bamboo, nylon. They exist, again depending on the brand, from size 34 to 48 or from XS to XXL. Their absorption capacity approximately equivalent to two pads of heavy flow.
When to change your period panties?
How to take care of menstrual panties?
Sokona Martin advises “to leave to soak in cold water menstrual panties and rinse until the water is clear. Then, we can wash by hand with stain remover soap. On the other hand, we avoid Marseille soap or any soap rich in glycerin. This compound clogs absorbent fibers panties, which will make them less and less effective and risk causing leaks. Air drying is preferable to preserve the quality and effectiveness of the absorbent fabric.
For her part, Dr. Odile Bagot, gynecologist, advises, after rinsing it well, to wash it in the machine at least at 40°C.
What are the best period panties? How to choose?
Do you want to switch to menstrual panties? Today, you are spoiled for choice: high-waisted panties, shorties, classic panties, cotton, lace, polyester…
En coton bio: So Cup
The brand offers different models of 100% period panties made in Francefrom size XXS (26/28 ideal for pre-teens) to XXL (size 50/52). They have a waterproof bottom, an absorbent bottom made of natural bamboo fiber and another bottom made of polyester which is antimicrobial, anti-odor and anti-humidity. (On sale on www.socup.frKazidomi, the Tribe of flavors, Vegan’Osh, Orijjine, Mademoiselle bulk, Tout par en bulk… Price: between 33 and 35 euros per panty).
Up to size XXL: Louloucup
Louloucup panties range from size XS to XXL. So there is something for all women. They are available in several cuts and are Oeko Tex certified. The panties absorb approximately the equivalent of three tampons. Whatever the model, their price is 28.90 euros each or 53.80 euros for a set of 2; 75.90 euros for a set of 3; 99.60 euros for a set of 4; 114.50 euros for a set of 5. On sale on www.louloucup.com
En grandes surfaces : Blooming
These menstrual panties can be bought at the same time as you do your shopping at the supermarket. The “Laura” model is on sale at Auchan and Monoprix. Many other models, suitable for adults and teenagers, are on sale on www.blooming.rocks. It comes in sizes 36 to 44, in lace, cotton or polyamide and is sold between 25 and 30 euros.
Which menstrual panties for young girls?
For those who do not want to wear tampons, and also do not want to “dry” the pool, Modibodi offers swimwear who, thanks to a lining the 3 mm, contain all types of leaks. The one-piece swimsuit is available from 8/10 years to 14/16 years in black and navy blue. (65.50 euros.)
Menstrual panties soon to be reimbursed in France for some women
From September 2026reusable hygienic protections like the menstrual cup or menstrual panties will be reimbursed up to 60% by Social Security for young women aged under 26, or beneficiaries of complementary solidarity health insurance without age limit. Some 6.7 million women are affected by this measure. To benefit from free reusable periodic protection, you will have to go to a pharmacy..
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