The Best Women’s Underwear for Your Period

The word “underwear” can invoke a range of images: the silky, lacey set that you see in magazines; the bra that fits perfectly under your work clothes when you’re feeling extra sexy; or that simple pair of cotton panties that you reach for on a regular basis. But did you know that a good or bad pair of underwear can impact your day-to-day life, especially during your period?

A great pair of underwear is more than just a piece of clothing; it protects you from bacteria, fungus, dirt and other environmental contaminants. It also prevents friction from pinching, rubbing and chafing that can cause irritation and even yeast infections. Plus, a well-fitting pair can offer comfort from painful rashes, cramping and other annoyances.

To find the best women’s underwear, we turned to our fiber experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab and sought medical input from gynecologist Dr. Alysa Dweck, who specializes in women’s intimate health. We also looked to plus-size influencers for their favorite picks and why they love them, including Shanel Esaloo, buyer at luxury plus-size label 11 Honore.

For a fuller coverage, try high briefs that sit higher on the waist to cover the whole tummy. Or, go for a french-cut (also known as high-waisted) pair that has the same waist as a classic brief but has higher-cut leg holes to show more of your leg. If you’re looking for shapewear underwear that sculpts more than just the butt, consider a pair of control briefs, which come in several different styles from mesh to microfiber and feature fabric that hugs in all the right places. women’s bamboo underwear