9 best period pants for teens in 2026, reviewed by Glamour editors
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There's a level of dread that precedes every period — but your first? Terrifying. Thankfully, period pants for teens are designed to take all of the stress out of their first cycle, minimising worries about leaks, running out of tampons or toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
I'll be honest — I only jumped on absorbent underwear three years ago. However, I wish they had been around when I was still at school. I cringe at the memory of smuggling huge plastic pads up my sleeve in a bid to get to the toilet without signalling to the entire school that I was on my period by taking my school bag with me.
There's another perk, though, in that period pants are teens are the far more sustainable option. Yep, 45 billion (!) disposable period products are used, with 500 million of those sanitary products going to landfill.
Experts are fans, too, with Rowena Prescot, women's health expert and registered homoeopath, commenting: “One of the biggest wins with period pants is that they remove the constant mental load of remembering to change a tampon or a pad. With tampons needing to be changed every four to six hours (8 hours max), that doesn’t exactly support a carefree school day, or the well-known teenage love of sleeping in until 1 pm. For confidence, comfort, safety and wellbeing, period pants are a brilliant choice for teens.”
So, read on for answers to all common period pants FAQs, as well as a rundown of the very best period protection on the market. And if you're wondering how we say that with confidence… because a team of Glamour editors (with the help of their younger cousins and siblings) have personally tried and tested a range themselves. Whether she's after a pair with a mid-rise waistband, a bikini or a boyshort, here are the best period pants to get her started.
What are period pants for teens?
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 up everything — blood, urine, discharge or sweat — and keep it all contained, so they needn’t worry about leaking. And, if you/her are conscious of their ecological footprint, they’re also totally reusable.
“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 — a popular first choice for adults buying for their tweens and teens, resulting in a +327% growth in sales."
How do period pants for teens work? Essentially, they have a built-in sanitary pad that she won’t have to discard every three hours. She literally can slip the pants on and forget about her period until the end of the day. They're also really discreet — they don’t give the nappy-like look that people assume they do.
But, according to Raut, a fear of leaking is what puts people off: “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."
How we test the best period pants for teens:
As we're not teenagers, we 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 many 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 six things: comfort, absorbency, how well they washed, whether they kept a fresh feeling, how they felt under normal clothes, and value for money. The results? See below.
Our testers:
- Georgia Trodd, Glamour Senior Commerce Writer
- Sophie Cockett, Glamour Senior European Commerce Editor
- Lucy Smith, Former Glamour Commerce Writer
- Sophie Donovan, Glamour Senior Commerce Writer
Why you can trust me: Sophie Donovan
As a shopping writer, it's been my job to test a host of wellness products for the last two years — that's 14 months at Glamour and a year elsewhere. From sexual wellness products to running trainers and menstrual products such as period pants and reusable sanitary pads, I've tried thousands of products across hundreds of brands so I can publicly declaring the best.
Over the last year, I've attended countless press days, spoken to various women's health experts and period pant designers, plus regularly read up on the latest research. As a result, you could say I am more of an expert on the subject of wellness, menstrual health and absorbent underwear than your average online shopper.
Ahead, the best period pants for teens in 2026:
Teen Stretch Seamless Period Pants
“For a VPL-free finish, look to WUKA's Teen Stretch Seamless full brief knickers, which aid my passage through period days like a dream. They're designed to grow with your teen — the two sizes stretch to fit most while also accommodating any physical changes (such as bloating and increased water retention) during her cycle. Having worn them under sporty leggings, high-waisted jeans and midi dresses, I can confirm they're never visible through clothes either. A game changer.”
Tested by: Sophie Cockett, Glamour Senior Commerce Editor.
Underwear style: Full brief.
Absorbency: Heavy flow, holding up to 4 tampons' worth.
Sizes: 2XS — S / S — L.
Colours: Black, navy, blue, red or light nude.
Machine washable? Yes.Save when you shop the best period pants for teens with these WUKA discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- The Stretch Microfiber Technology means these stretch to fit all body shapes.
- The CoolMax Absorbent Technology fabric in the gusset results in fast absorption.
Cons- On the thicker side — but that also limits the need to line it with a panty liner or single-use pad.
"When I first started using period pants three years ago, my options were limited to black pairs with plenty of bulk. But Modibodi have prioritised offering us options that look and feel like normal undies. I love the vibrant colour palette of this set of three — can I request this option for adults? But the fact that each pair holds up to three tampons' worth of fluid, and comes fitted with a high elastic waist to keep your teen comfortable, makes these an ideal option for total beginners."
Tested by: Sophie Donovan, Glamour Senior Commerce Writer.
Underwear style: Boyleg.
Absorbency: Moderate flow, holding up to 6 tampons' worth.
Sizes: 8 — 10 years / 10 — 12 years / 12 — 14 years / 14 — 16 years / 16 — 18 years.
Colours: Sweet Sorbet Multi or Jellybean Pink/Bubble Blue/Melon Green mix.
Machine washable? Yes.Save when you shop the best period pants for teens with these Modiodi discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Made with natural, renewable and super-soft merino wool.
- Quick drying and breathable.
- Naturally controls odour.
Cons- Plan for a VPL, as these aren't seamless.
- True to size — although those sizes are a little confusing.
"I gifted this to my teen cousin a couple of years ago, before she started menstruating — as there's nothing worse than being caught without the necessary supplies.
"She still wears these absorbent briefs to this day, usually on day three or four of her cycle when her flow is a little lighter. She loves their seamless design and the super stretchy material, comfortable even when she's bloated. But she also really appreciated the heat patch — loudly praised for calming her cramps — and the intimate wipes, which allowed her to freshen up at school.
“Personally, I was most fond of Sophie Elkan’s Girls’ Guide to Growing Up Great book, which walked my niece through exactly what's going on with her body."
Tested by: Sophie Donovan, Glamour Senior Commerce Writer.
Underwear style: Bikini.
Absorbency: Heavy, holding up to 20ml or 4 tampons' worth of liquid.
Sizes: 2XS — S or S — L.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Pros & ConsPros- The set includes 1 or 3 pairs of Teen Stretch Seamless Period Underwear, a Two Pocket Changing Bag, a soothing Heat Patch, Sophie Elkan’s Girls’ Guide to Growing Up Great book, a pack of Intimate Wipes and a period positive sticker set.
- Pants are reusable for up to 2 years.
Cons- Only available in one colourway (Black) at the moment.
"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 these period pants have transformed the quality of my sleep. I no longer need to set an alarm to change my tampon or wake up at 2 am in a panic that I've leaked. 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.”
Tested by: Lucy Smith, Former Glamour Commerce Writer.
Underwear style: Seamless midi.
Absorbency: Heavy, holding up to 20ml or 4 tampons' worth.
Sizes: 2XS – S or S – L.
Colours: Pink, Orange, Lime, Light Nude, Blue, Navy and Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Pros & ConsPros- Designed to grow with them, these period pants stretch up to three sizes.
- Available in a 3-, 5- or 7- pack that will also save you cash.
- 7 colour options.
Cons- Personally, I'd prefer a high waist, as these fall just below the belly button.
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"I hate when I feel sluggish and self-conscious when I'm on my period, but these printed period panties help fight the temporary uglies. They look just like my usual organic cotton underwear, except they hold up to four tampons' worth of blood. I've tested them during every possible scenario life can throw at you, and honestly? They win every time. I love how lightweight and stretchy they are."
Tested by: Sophie Cockett, Glamour Senior Commerce Editor.
Underwear style: Bikini.
Absorbency: Heavy flow, holding up to 4 tampons' worth.
Sizes: 9 – 10 years / 11 – 12 years / 13 – 14 years / 14 years +.
Colours: Hearted pink, hearted blue, flowery apricot, black.
Machine washable? Yes.Pros & ConsPros- Thinner and lighter than most normal underwear, measuring in at 1.5mm thick.
- Fitted with an impermeable membrane which does not let moisture through — even after 50 wash cycles.
Cons- Sit a little low on the waist, so we'd appreciate a high-waisted option.
SmileyWorld X Modibodi Teen Hipster Boyshort
“Modibodi is a leading brand in the adult period pant realm, so it's no surprise it's now offering options for the younger gen — including some finished in a seriously cute Love Hearts-inspired print.
"The Hipster Boyshort are the perfect absorbent undies to wear under her school uniform, skirts, dresses, or her PE kit, and at night in replacement of PJ shorts. They don't roll up or fall down, thanks to that soft, stretchy waistband, and hold up to six tampons' worth of fluid — in fact, our testers confirmed they didn't feel damp once during the day."
Tested by: Georgia Trodd, Glamour Senior Commerce Writer.
Underwear style: Hipster boyshort.
Absorbency: Moderate, holding up to 6 tampons' worth.
Sizes: 8 — 10 years / 10 — 12 years / 12 — 14 years / 14 — 16 years / 16 — 18 years.
Colours: Happy Hearts, Playful Petal Green or Flower Checkerboard.
Machine washable? Yes.Pros & ConsPros- Comfy, embossed wide waistband, low-rise waist and a boyshort leg — the perfect pair to team under uniforms, skirts, or her sports kit.
- Natural, breathable and black-coloured Merino wool liner stops unwanted stains.
- Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified — AKA free from harmful substances
Cons- A spenny option.
3pk Heavy Absorbency First Period Briefs
"There's no denying that period pants are an investment, with the initial outlay far higher than that of a set of single-use sanitary pads. Thankfully, this set from Marks & Spencer works out at just £4.70 (!) a pair. Granted, they're currently only available in black and for a heavy flow, but for teens looking for a suitable nightmare layer, these fit the bill.
“The super soft cotton-fabric — infused with Lycra for added stretch — means these are both breathable and comfortable for wear over 12 hours. But they're also some of the least bulky absorbent pants in our lineup. Win-win-win. ”
Tested by: Sophie Donovan, Glamour Senior Commerce Writer.
Underwear style: Low-rise.
Absorbency: Heavy, holding up to 6 tampons' worth.
Sizes: UK 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 or 14.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Save when you shop the best period pants for teens with these Marks & Spencer discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Beginner and budget-friendly.
- Soft cotton-rich fabric with added Lycra.
- True to size.
Cons- I don't love that low-rise design, both in terms of comfort and for protecting against leaks.
- More colours, please!
“This is a great gift for the teen in your life who's just started their period. This pack would be a true lifesaver as it'll have her covered day and night for at least 48 hours, consisting of four pairs of bikini pants and a waterproof carry bag.
“As with most WUKA pants, these come fitted with the brand's patented CoolMax Technology — ultra-fast wicking and quick-drying fabric keeps you feeling fresh — Stretch Technology, meaning one pair fits three sizes. Do we wish there were more than one colour or style option? Yes, but that's our only complaint.”
Tested by: Georgia Trodd, Glamour Senior Commerce Writer.
Underwear style: Seamless midi.
Absorbency: Super heavy, holding up to 60ml or 8 tampons' worth.
Sizes: 2XS – S or S – L.
Colours: Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Pros & ConsPros- Double-layer inner gusset provides extra protection
- Designed for up to 24-hour wear, making them ideal for long days at school, sleepovers, and school trips
Cons- The set includes just one style of period pants
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9. Best Period Swimwear for teens
"Tweens get all the same anxieties about their first period and potential spills as the rest of us — although a tad more intense, considering they haven't got experience on their side. Thankfully, these bikini briefs give her the option to enjoy endless dips in the pool or sea without even thinking of her cycle.
“My younger cousin loved the fact that these sat on her hips, rather than super high on the waist, so she could still tan, plus the fact that they're fully lined to prevent leaks.”
Tested by: Sophie Donovan, Glamour Senior Commerce Writer.
Underwear style: Bikini.
Absorbency: Light, holding up to 20ml or 4 tampons' worth.
Sizes: 8 — 10 years / 10 — 12 years / 12 — 14 years / 14 — 16 years / 16 — 18 years.
Colours: Wavy Pink, Hibiscus Pink Print, Black.
Machine washable? Yes.Pros & ConsPros- Perfect for wearing at the start or end of her cycle.
- Moderate leg and bum coverage.
- Chlorine-resistant.
Cons- Currently only available in a light absorbency.
- Only sports bra-style matching tops.
Period pants for teens FAQs, answered:
Are period pants safe for teens?
“Period pants are an excellent option for teens as they really do allow for that carefree state that teenagers naturally live in,” says Women's health expert and registered homoeopath., Rowena Prescot. "When you choose good quality brands, they are hygienic, breathable and designed to sit safely next to delicate skin all day long.
“Most reputable companies now use tested, skin safe materials that allow airflow while locking moisture away, which is exactly what we want for growing bodies and busy school days.”
She continues: “Period pants have come a long way in a relatively short amount of time. There are now different absorbency levels for light, medium, heavy and overnight flow, which means most teens can comfortably wear them for the whole school day.
"My professional tip is to always go for a slightly higher absorbency than you think you’ll need. That way there’s no worry about leaks, and no need to change during lessons.”
Dr Nikki Ramskill, a GP and women’s health expert verified on healthcare review platform Doctify, adds: “Period pants are made with absorbent layers that hold menstrual blood just like pads or liners. Like any menstrual product, they should be changed and washed daily — trapped moisture left too long can cause irritation.
“Check for PFAS-free labels if you want to avoid ‘forever chemicals’ — some period underwear brands do add antimicrobial coatings that aren’t always clearly detailed on packaging.”
How much blood do period pants for teens hold?
Absorbency differs between brands and pant style, but as a general rule of thumb:
- Light: Up to 20 mls, or 4 tampons worth of blood, sweat and urine. Perfect for the start or end of your cycle.
- Moderate: Up to 30mls or 6 tampons worth, making them suitable for heavier days.
- Heavy: Up to 40mls, or 8 tampons worth.
- Super: Up to 50mls, or 10 tampons worth. Best suited to your heaviest days or overnight.
“You know your flow best,” says Ruby, but we also recommend trialling a few different options to work out what works for you.
Can you wear period pants all day at school?
“As long as period pants are changed and washed daily, they absolutely can be used for a school day,” says Nikki. "Most period pants are designed to handle a full school day (around 6-12 hours). In real-world user experiences, people wearing similar products for overnight protection (8-10 hrs) find them reliable, which suggests a typical school day isn't a problem.
She continues, “some teens feel more confident pairing period pants with a small disposable backup in the morning and removing it midday, and carrying a spare pair is a great idea.”
How to wash period pants for teens:
The good news: It doesn't take much more effort to refresh your period pants. In fact, we suggest you give them a quick rinse under the tap to remove any clots before following the same process as usual, chucking them in a cold-water wash (between 30℃ and 40℃) and leaving them to air dry. Try not to use fabric softener or bleach, though, as this will make them less absorbent over time.
Meet the experts:
| Ruby Raut | CEO and co-founder of WUKA. |
| Dr Nikki Ramskill | GP and women’s health expert verified on healthcare review platform Doctify. |
| Rowena Prescot | Women's health expert and registered homoeopath. |
