FLO x Sex Education | Women's Hip Hugging, Period/Leakproof, Flow-Absorbing, Washable Underwear Briefs | Made from Better Cotton | Black - XS (UK 6) FLUN-B-XS

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For those of us who have been lifelong fans of tampons, it can be hard to make the switch, but it’s all about investing in the right pair of period pants for you and your flow as there are plenty more options than there used to be. Those who already use sanitary towels, you’re already in the right ballpark, again it’s knowing your flow and the light, medium and heavy options that several brands like FLO, Wuka and Modibodi, have on offer that make choosing period pants a whole lot easier. Period underwear is much like normal underwear in its appearance — it can range from hipster briefs to high-waisted bikini cuts and thongs. The most important thing is not to get stressed or anxious," says Dr Ameen. "If you feel comfortable, talk to someone you trust like a parent, teacher or maybe a friend who has already started their periods. It’s a completely natural process."

But not all period pants are created equally on the sustainability stakes. Many still use synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon, which aren't biodegradable, and might release micro-plastics when they break down. While the exact causes are unknown at the moment, it has been connected to genes and sensitivity to changes in hormones. Your GP will be able to provide you with support and guide you through various treatment options that may help. GH Tip: Don't wash reusable pads with fabric softener or bleach them as this reduces their absorbency. Reusable menstrual cups Everyone’s cycle can be different, so while the average is to have a period every 28 days, it’s not uncommon for this to fluctuate while your body settles into a regular pattern. However, we’re not here to shame you for your choices – applicators are very helpful in securing the tampon inside your vagina, which is especially useful if you've never tried tampons before. So whether you choose to go with or without, we’re here for you!💕

SHOP: The Best Period Pants And Underwear

All state-funded schools (including primary schools with Year 5 pupils and above) and DfE-funded 16-19 education organisations in England are eligible to access the scheme. How does the scheme work? Objectively speaking, the applicator tampons (albeit 95% plant-based & recyclable) still bring waste into the world. If it’s not rinsed and properly recycled, it’ll end up in landfill and contribute to unnecessary pollution. Regular exercise, eating a healthy, balanced diet (potentially with small meals every two to three hours), seven to eight hours of sleep per night, reducing everyday stress with yoga or meditation, taking pain relief, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol if suitable for you*, and keeping a diary of your symptoms for at least two to three menstrual cycles can be helpful. Here we provide information on the scheme and how your schools and colleges can get involved. What is the Period Products Scheme?

Taking simple painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if suitable for you*, is usually enough," explains Dr Ameen, with Sarah also advising using a hot water bottle and wearing comfortable clothing for mild pain.There are also absorbent pants designed specifically for incontinence issues, which might be better suited to your needs and offer similar benefits. Increasingly brands are diversifying their ranges to better serve each issue. We've listed the brands which state they do contain silver below, and our test findings where relevant, so you can make an informed choice. For more on this, read our full investigation into silver in period pants .

But period pants are not solely for your period as they can also be worn by those postpartum, or those suffering with incontinence. Period pants come in an increasingly broad range of shapes and sizes, including an ever-expanding range of colours.

How do you wash period pants?

Period pants are washable and reusable absorbent pants that can be used instead of, or alongside, disposable products such as sanitary towels or tampons. They're not just for periods either, these pants can also double up as bladder-leakage protection for post-birth. What's more, they come in a wide variety of colours, shapes and sizes, so whether you’re a fan of a thong or a high-waist brief – there's an option for you. How do you wash your period pants? Period pants are a sustainable and fuss-free alternative to sanitary towels and tampons when your time of the month hits.

Steer clear of fabric softener as this can affect the absorbency of the product over time. We’d also recommend popping them in a delicates bag to keep them in tip-top condition. Let them air dry before using them again. How we test Period pants

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This will depend on your flow, but period underwear can be worn all day if it's the right level of absorbency for your needs. Most period underwear brands suggest changing when you feel wetness — this is a sign it has absorbed all it's able to. Reusable sanitary products are more expensive than normal pants because the additional layers of breathable, leak-proof fabric add to the cost of production.