Menstrual panties or sanitary napkins, what's the difference?

Do you know how many times we menstruate during our lifetime? We menstruate about 500 times , between our first period (usually between the ages of 11 and 14) and the transition to perimenopause.

Perimenopause is the transition period between the end of regular periods and menopause (complete absence of periods) which usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.

Remember the first time you had your period? You've probably evolved and changed your protection method since then. Our periods change; their duration, their flow, and symptoms can vary from one period to another for multiple reasons (changing contraceptives, hormonal changes, taking medication, postpartum, etc.). More and more choices are available to us, but how do you choose the right sanitary protection?

Here we focus on external protections. You can find more information on internal protections in the dedicated article.

Before you begin, (this may seem logical, but it's always good to remember!) Whatever protection you use, wash your hands thoroughly before and after using sanitary protection to avoid infections.

Sanitary napkins

What is a sanitary napkin?

There are a multitude of models, from single-use disposable protection to reusable protection. Disposable pads have external wings that allow them to stay in place over your underwear. There are pads for every flow, and depending on the time of your cycle, different absorbency levels are possible.

How to choose your disposable sanitary towels?

We pay attention to their composition, since last week in France all manufacturers will be required to display it by January 1, 2023. So, we pay particular attention to it which can include petrochemical derivatives and other synthetic absorbents, endocrine disruptors, pesticides, not to mention perfumes or chlorine bleaching of cotton which disrupt the balance of the vaginal flora. This is why we choose organic and cotton, a soft material that respects your flora, without toxic products for your body.

=> At Gapianne, we have selected menstrual pads made from organic cotton and without unnecessary additives which are also biodegradable from the Jho brand.

How long can you wear a sanitary napkin?

It is recommended to change it at most every 4 hours to avoid the proliferation of bad bacteria which can lead to bad odors and possible infections (fungal infections etc.).

Reusable sanitary napkins

There are also reusable pads, most often made of cotton. They are used in a similar way to menstrual panties. They are rinsed with water after each use and then machine washed at 30 degrees without fabric softener.

Menstrual panties

What are menstrual panties?

Menstrual panties are reusable absorbent panties made with a technology that layers hyper-absorbent fabrics to prevent leaks. They come in all sizes, for medium and heavy flows, and in many different materials, with or without elastic... the choice is endless! Recent years have seen the emergence of some superb initiatives that we welcome with joy.

But how do you choose your menstrual panties?

Comfort, comfort, comfort. That's why at Gapianne, we've tested so many to select the best of the best for you, including panties that:

• is as comfortable to wear as your everyday lingerie

• does not serve the size

• is designed with materials that are healthy for the body and the environment

• does not have a “layer” effect

At Gapianne, we've selected menstrual panties with invisible seams and a super-soft material with a super-absorbent panty bottom that dries in a flash to avoid a feeling of dampness. They're REACH-certified, so they're safe for the body and the environment, and they don't contain any silver nanoparticles. Find Smoon panties for medium and heavy flows here.

If you're used to wearing thongs, we've selected the first Ma Lucette menstrual thongs made in France for you. Lined with GOTS cotton, Ma Lucette thongs are OEKO-TEX certified, guaranteeing they're free from toxic chemicals for the body and the environment.

How long can you wear menstrual panties?

You can wear your period panties for up to 12 hours, however for your comfort, we recommend changing them every 6 hours if possible. Often, period panties are equivalent to the absorbency of several tampons, but this depends on the flow of the panties and the technology used.

How to wash period panties?

After use, rinse it with clean water until the water is no longer stained, then put it in the washing machine without fabric softener at 30 degrees. Let it dry naturally, without a tumble dryer to avoid damaging the absorbent fabrics. You can also wash it by hand with a non-greasy soap, remember to wring it out well so that it dries faster. The lifespan of menstrual panties is between 2 and 3 years on average, this is comparable to the wear of your usual lingerie and obviously depends on the care you give it.

Can you use period panties for urinary leaks?

For light urinary leaks or to absorb white discharge, your menstrual panties are effective thanks to their absorption technology.

Can I use my menstrual panties with a tampon?

You can definitely wear your menstrual panties in combination with a tampon or cup to prevent leaks. However, it would be pointless to wear them with a sanitary pad, as this would obstruct the absorbent area.

How many menstrual panties do we use during our periods?

It will depend on the person and when you want to use them. Some people prefer to wear them only at night, others wear them day and night, it's up to you to find what suits you best. As we are all different, we advise you to test their use for the first time outside of your heaviest flows to feel comfortable. You can use 2 to 4 panties per cycle, taking the time to rinse them well after each use and to wash them as well.

Another question you may ask yourself: what sanitary protection should I use after giving birth?

External protection is preferred to protect the already highly sensitive internal area. Once the area has healed, you can reuse the sanitary protection of your choice.

As for the first week after giving birth and to deal with the heavy leaks called lochia, it is best to opt for special maternity sanitary towels which are ultra-absorbent (they are usually available to lend you at the maternity ward) and which you can find in pharmacies for when you return home.

And for more information on internal hygiene protection such as tampons or cups (menstrual cups), we invite you to visit our dedicated article.