Out for lunch with the gals recently, a question came up that lends itself to a myriad of answers: What do you use for your time of the month? As we delved into the subject matter, I discovered that some swore by tampons as a convenient and discreet option while on their period, while others had managed to figure out the manoeuvring of menstruation cups. “I don’t do tampons or cups, way too uncomfortable,” I remarked, when my turn arrived. “And pads make me feel like I’m wearing a nappy, so that’s a no-go, too.”
“So, what do you do?” my friends asked. “Period pants,” I said.
SHOP MY FAVOURITE PERIOD PANTS NOW
Yep, ever since reusable period underwear burst onto the scene as a comfortable and sustainable alternative to traditional menstruation products, I’ve been a total convert. For the uninitiated, these garments look just like regular knickers, but feature a leak-proof lining that can absorb your menstrual flow — in some cases, up to four tampons worth. I find that they add a much needed sense of normalcy to my life when I’m dealing with other symptoms like cramps and a sudden urge to cry while watching TikToks of baby ducks.
While some people collect stamps, postcards or shoes, I collect period pants — I probably own over a dozen pairs. However, until recently, I hadn’t yet found my holy grail. You see, while I’m lucky enough to only have a fairly light flow, I’m relatively active and work out vigorously around four times a week. I was yet to find a pair that I felt confident doing jumping jacks and burpees in, while still being comfortable and slim-fitting. That is, until I had the opportunity to try out Ugly Pants.
The UK-based brand is on a mission to change the way we perceive and manage menstruation with its eco-friendly period wear. Born out of the founder’s 20 year journey dealing with women's health conditions, the brand wants to create a world where we aren’t ashamed of our bodies’ natural functions — but rather, celebrate them as a symbol of femininity. The products are also crafted out of 99 per cent upcycled materials, making them an even more sustainable addition to your underwear drawer.
Committed to inclusivity, Ugly Pants makes period knickers for sizes 4 to 18, and caters for all levels of flow from light through to heavy.
Ugly Pants Black Hipster Brief Period Pant
Ugly Pants Olive Bikini Brief Period Pant
Ugly Pants Teal Thong Period Pant
And, don’t let the brand’s name fool you: the first thing I noticed when I unpackaged these is just how stylish and flattering they were. I tried out the Hipster Period Pants, the Bikini Brief Period Pants and the Thong Period Pants, and loved that they have a cut for all occasions — whether you’re hitting the gym or heading on a night out. They even have a handy ‘find your ugly’ quiz to get tailored recommendations based on your flow, cycle length and lifestyle needs.
Of the lineup, the Hipster Period Pants, which have a mid-rise waist and fuller coverage cut, quickly became my go-to. Like all of the brand’s products, the briefs are crafted out of bamboo for ultimate breathability and discretion. I noticed that this creates a smooth silhouette under leggings (my work-from-home go-to), without a VPL in sight. With an absorbency of up to 10ml, the briefs can hold the equivalent of two tampons worth of menstruation — making them perfect for those with a light to moderate flow.
The pants, which can easily be rewashed in the washing machine on cool, got me through multiple work days, sleeps and gym sessions with zero mishaps. But, it was when I embarked on a 8 mile run that I was able to truly put them to the test.
As I huffed and puffed my way through the crowds, they proved so comfortable I almost forgot I was even wearing them. The moisture-wicking and anti-odour technology certainly came in handy too, as I felt dry during and after my run despite being sweaty everywhere else. Most importantly, the multiple layers of leak-proof material gave me ultimate peace of mind, so I could focus on surviving the race.
All in all, I was super impressed by these not-so-ugly pants, and will relish any opportunity to rave about them at my next girl’s brunch. And, if you’re keen to take them for a spin yourself, there’s no better time. Ugly Pants is currently offering a special promotion of £10 off your first order, allowing you to try them out for as little as £9.
Shop now at uglypants.com
