11 Best Period Pants For Teens For An Alternative To Tampons And Pads

By Georgia Trodd

When you hit puberty, there's little more daunting instances than getting your period for the first time. Period pants for teens can help minimise the stress of it all, though, and make the whole experience a lot easier to deal with. Because, let's face it, it can be really awkward and sometimes totally unexpected.

What's even more overwhelming is the idea of then having to insert a tampon or wear a pad when you never have before, on top of juggling things like cramps, mood swings and cravings. Period pants for teens remove all that stress, so instead of faffing about in the bathroom for hours trying to adhere a sanitary pad/towel or install a tampax in the correct position, you can simply pull them on as you would your normal underwear.

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, if you're conscious of sustainability, they’re totally reusable. Essentially, they 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 eco-friendly and convenient for teenagers who are always running on a last-minute time schedule.

“In recent years, people have become much more conscious of their environmental footprint with more emphasis placed on reducing our single-use plastic consumption and carbon emission contribution,” says Ruby Raut, CEO and co-founder of WUKA. “It's encouraging to see that this demand is being driven by the younger generations as well as adults - we've seen this first hand with our First Period Pack - which is a popular first choice for adults buying for their tweens and teens resulting in a +327% growth in sales,” she adds.

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. “You know your flow best,” says Ruby, so 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 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 according to Ruby, fear of leaking is what puts people off trying them. “A lot of people are concerned they will feel like they're wearing granny pants – but they won't. There are so many different styles of period pants for teens: briefs, seamless, high waisted, boxers and even thongs for the ultimate summer period underwear without the VPL,” she says. So if they're really fussy about any potential lines showing through their clothing (aren't we all?) then opt for a seamless pair like Flux Undies’ bikini style or WUKA's stretch seamless knickers.

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.

As we're not teenagers ourselves, us GLAMOUR editors – each of different ages and flows – trialled the adult versions of the period pants for teens in this round-up. We tested them in numerous scenarios over a number of months and at various points in our cycles. We worked out in them, lounged in them, went on holiday in them, worked from home in them, and then we evaluated each pair based on five things: comfort, absorbency, how well they washed, whether they kept a fresh feeling, and how they felt under normal clothes, all while rating them out of five stars. The results? See below.

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.

Teen Hipster Boyshort Period Pants

Underwear style: Hipster boyshort.Absorbency: Moderate-heavy.Sizes: Ages 8-18.Colours: Black, pink, floral, orange, green and purple.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: If you mix and match and buy five pairs you can save 5%.

Cons: We can't think of any!

Why we love them: “Modibodi is a leading brand in the adult period pant realm, so its no surprise they've capitalised on a younger audience. The Hipster Boyshort period pants are the perfect period protection to wear under uniforms, skirts, dresses, or sports kits and offers full booty coverage. An everyday staple for those with packed schedules and no time (or desire) to deal with disposables, leaks, or messy sheets. They hold up to three tampons worth of blood, too, which is pretty good going for anyone up to the age of 18 (or over TBH).” Georgia Trodd, Commerce Writer.

GLAMOUR star rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️

Save when you shop for the best period pants for teens with these Modibodi discount codes at checkout.

Seamless Bikini Brief Period Pants

Underwear style: Seamless bikini.Absorbency: Light (up to 2 tampons).Sizes: XS-2XL.Colours: Black, rose and beige.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: One reviewer said: “Others have dug in, these ones don't.”

Cons: You'll struggle to find many.

Why we love them: “These seamless period pants are ultra-thin, super smooth and truly invisible. Designed with soft, lightweight nylon and a high leg, they are super stretchy, comfortable and can be worn seamlessly under anything. They hold up to two tampons worth of blood, plus they start from a size XS (UK 6) so are ideal for teens. If you're looking for something with a higher absorbency, they're also available in ‘heavy’.” Georgia Trodd, Commerce Writer.

GLAMOUR star rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐

Teen Hipster Bikini Period Pants

Underwear style: Hipster bikini.Absorbency: Maximum/up to 50ml per day (or 10 tampons worth).Sizes: Ages 8-18.Colours: Pink and floral.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: "I put these to the test on my heaviest period days and they lasted me through the night, every time. The extended absorbent pad up towards your tailbone provides extra security and protection when lying down, too.

Cons: "In my experience, drying these on the radiator will hinder their performance, so it's an air-dry only affair. Likewise, I'd estimate the shelf life on the Modibodi period pants is around one to one and a half years of regular monthly use.

Why we love them: "As someone who's woken up to that dreaded crimson stain on my white bed sheets more times than I care to admit, finding a solution to aunt Flo's monthly crimes was top of my shopping list. Enter Modibodi. We're three years into my switch from tampons and pads to period knickers and, I can say with complete honesty that Modibodi period pants have transformed the quality of my sleep. I no longer wake up in a panic that I've leaked at 2am, I don't need to set an alarm to change my tampon through the night and I can even wear white jeans in the day, stress free. So long my period support pal, performing an honourable "you're good" check as required. If you were on the fence about making the switch, let this be the review that tips you in favour of period pants. Sincerely, a shameless heavy flow girly. P.S. This style is also available in the brand's moderate-heavy absorbency, if you're looking for something lighter." Lucy Smith, Commerce Writer

GLAMOUR star rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐

Save when you shop for the best period pants for teens with these Modibodi discount codes at checkout.

Tween Ultimate Midi Brief Period Pants

Underwear style: Midi brief.Absorbency: Heavy/up to 4 tampon's worth.Sizes: XXS-S.Colours: Black.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: One reviewer said: “These are a lifesaver for my 13 year old autistic daughter who has just started her periods and could not deal with the thought of a pad.”

Cons: They only come in one colour and style.

Why we love them: “Wuka's Midi Briefs for tweens absorb up to a whole day's worth of blood. The ultra-comfortable and luxurious fabrics mean they feel just like regular underwear so they'll forget they're even wearing them, plus the pants don't slip or rustle like they would with a pad or liner - making them ideal for active lifestyles. They save youngsters from what could be considered stressful experiences (i.e. coming on when they're not prepared), and prevent them from having to worry about changing their clothes. A great top drawer addition for anyone who may need them soon.” Georgia Trodd, Commerce Writer.

GLAMOUR star rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐

School Set Hipster Period Pants

Underwear style: Hipster.Absorbency: Medium holds up to 3 tampon's worth, heavy holds up to 4.Sizes: XXS-XL.Colours: Black.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: You can choose which flow type you require for a personalised experience.

Cons: They only come in one colour.

Why we love them: “With this School Set from Wuka, your teen will be able to throw the pouch in their bag and go about their day without the worry of having to dig around for various period products. Despite there being much less stigma around menstruation these days, its still pretty awkward to rummage around for a pad - or ask peers to borrow one - and then walk to the bathroom with it visibly in your hand. Wearing a pair of period pants instantly eliminates that issue, which is why these sets are such a sell-out hit.” Georgia Trodd, Commerce Writer.

GLAMOUR star rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐

Classic Bikini Period Pants

Underwear style: Hi-waist bikini.Absorbency: Up to 3 tampons' worth of blood.Sizes: XXS-XXL.Colours: Black.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: They can hold four tampons' worth of blood, they're not as boring as other styles and they have ample stretch.

Cons: Honestly? Nothing to note.

Why we love them: "Flux's classic bikini period pants are leak proof for up to 12 hours and they hold up to four tampons worth of blood. They also start from a size XXS (UK 4), so are ideal for teens experiencing their first period.

"I hate feeling sluggish and self-conscious when I'm on my period, and these lace adorned period panties prevent that from ever happening. They look just like the normal cotton underwear I'd wear when I'm not bleeding, yet they protect me for up to half a day.

"I've tested them during every possible scenario life can throw at you, and honestly? They win every time. I love how lightweight they feel and how stretchy they are, oh, and if you need further convincing, 86% of reviewers said they avoided leakages in these period pants and that they felt comfortable at night." Sophie Cockett, Commerce Editor.

GLAMOUR star rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

School Set Organic Cotton Bikini Period Pants

Underwear style: Bikini.Absorbency: Medium holds up to 3 tampon's worth, heavy holds up to 4.Sizes: XXS-XL.Colours: Black.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: You can choose which flow type you require for a personalised experience.

Cons: They only come in one colour.

Why we love them: "Wuka's School Set starter kit of bikini knickers was created to ensure a stress-free period for students. What's worse than sitting in class only to be filled with that familiar 'I’ve just come on' dread? We all remember the quick check of the chair when we stood up to leave, too, in case we'd leaked and left a stain where we were sat, but girls no longer need fear that. These period pants ensure protection throughout that day, and even on the odd chance they do need to change them that's what the spare pair and changing bag is for. Genius." Georgia Trodd, Commerce Writer.

GLAMOUR star rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐

Teen Stretch Seamless Period Pants

Underwear style: Seamless.Absorbency: Heavy/high absorbency up to 12 hour wear.Sizes: 2XS-L.Colours: Black, blue and red.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: The Stretch™ Microfiber Technology sculpts to fit all body shapes – and changes to fit your body during the course of your flow. It's hypoallergenic, there's no VPL and each pair comes with a free laundry bag.

Cons: They sell out regularly so you may have to pre-order them.

Why we love them: “For a VPL-free finish, look to WUKA's Teen Stretch Seamless full brief knickers. Aiding my passage through period days like a dream – and supporting me in my never-fading desire to exercise sartorial creativity – these seamless period pants came and changed my life just as I was beginning to consider using regular tampons or menstrual products for a certain few outfits. The elastane design holds up to four tampons' worth of blood - which is pretty good going considering the thinner fabric - and are designed to grow with your child up to three sizes thanks to the unique inner gusset that expands bi-directionally for a comfortable, leak-free custom fit. Having worn them under leggings, high-waisted jeans and midi dresses, I can confirm they're never visible through clothes either. A game changer.” Sophie Cockett, Commerce Editor.

GLAMOUR star rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐

By Meg Walters

By Hayley Spencer

By Gabi Thorne

PINK Short Period Pants (Pack of 3)

Underwear style: Shorts.Absorbency: Regular-heavy (up to 3 tampons).Sizes: XS-XL.Colours: Grey, purple swirl and orange swirl.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: You get three pairs for less than £50.

Cons: The colourful pairs might show through lighter colour clothing.

Why we love them: “Perfect for nighttime thanks to the short silhouette (i.e. more coverage and comfort than normal underwear), this pack of period pants can contain up to 21ml of blood and are 100% machine washable. The cute patterns are a bonus for teens who don't want to feel like they're wearing anything grown up, too. Bravo Victoria's Secret!” Georgia Trodd, Commerce Writer.

GLAMOUR star rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐

Save when you shop for the best period pants for teens with these Victoria's Secret discount codes at checkout.

PINK Hipster Period Pant Knickers

Underwear style: Hipster.Absorbency: Light flow to moderate flow (up to 2 tampons).Sizes: XS-XL.Colours: Arctic ice blur, atomic pink, script print, plaid, marble, black, red, green.Machine washable? Yes.

Pros: They're part of the 2 for £22 deal.

Cons: They don't go smaller than an XS or larger than an XL.

Why we love them: “The variety of patterns and colours is what I love most about these period pants, I never get bored,” says Denise Primbet, Commerce Writer. “They're moisture wicking, so you never feel uncomfortable no matter the weather, and, although you should wash them cold (or hand wash them preferably), you don't need to wash them separately to your other clothes. Unless you prefer to!”

GLAMOUR star rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐

PINK High Waist Rib Seamless Boxer Brief Period Pants

Underwear style: Hipster.Absorbency: N/A.Sizes: XS-XL.Colours: Pink, mocha, green.Machine washable? N/A.

Pros: They're part of the 5 for £30 deal.

Cons: There's no absorbency or care information/FAQs for them listed, so you'd need to read the label when they arrive.

Why we love them: “I love seamless underwear and actually reach for it far more frequently than my other styles. When you're on your period, you especially don't want anything ‘showing’, so these are a great option to have stocked in your top drawer. The mocha colour is particularly good as it's less visible under more sheer clothing.” – Denise Primbet, Commerce Writer.

GLAMOUR star rating: 3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Save when you shop for the best period pants for teens with these Victoria's Secret discount codes at checkout.

By Georgia Trodd

By Talia Abbas

By Annabelle Spranklen

By Georgia Trodd