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What alternatives to tampons and pads are there for our teens? Teen period underwear, of course!

Written by: Camille Raynaud

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Published on

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Time to read 9 min

Do teen period panties really replace tampons and pads without compromise? Are they reliable, practical alternatives for our teens going through their first cycles and their first periods?


Between fear of leaks, repeated irritation and the stress of changing during the day, conventional products (tampons and pads) can make life difficult for teenage girls.


For a smooth, stress-free first period, discover a super reliable, eco-friendly and budget-friendly alternative: technical underwear that’s absorbent, discreet and comfortable—period panties or teen period underwear.


No more constant trips to the bathroom, complicated handling, painful and stressful insertions—it’s important to offer teenagers a calm and natural menstrual experience. In class, while traveling or doing sports, it’s essential that teens can rely on trustworthy period protection.

I. Traditional protection, a real headache for teens?

Your first period marks a key milestone: the end of childhood, the start of puberty and the development of the adult female body! It’s an intense time, so there’s no room for doubt about which period products to use!


Tampons and pads (they’re inexpensive and very accessible), although common, raise legitimate concerns among teens, especially regarding comfort, composition and environmental impact. These period products, despite being easy to find, can cause stress, discomfort or unease, especially during first experiences.

Tampons: a very real concern

The idea of inserting a tampon into the vagina often causes worry. That’s completely normal when it’s something new to you! Internal period protection (meaning protection that you insert into the vagina), such as tampons, menstrual discs or a menstrual cup, can definitely seem intimidating. This is a very real, natural and totally normal concern when you’re a teenager.


Our Louloucup tip? Never force yourself to use a product that “doesn’t feel right”, makes you uncomfortable, or scares you. You always have alternatives! Have confidence and courage. And you have time! You’ll have plenty of years ahead to try all the period products you want.

S. aureus bacteria


Toxic shock syndrome (TSS), although rare, can develop after using internal period products. To prevent it, remember that it’s important to change your tampon regularly or to empty your cup or disc every 4 to 6 hours.

Another Louloucup tip to help you take the plunge:


Non-applicator or small-size tampons are perfect for beginners. The hymen, often a source of worry, doesn’t prevent insertion thanks to its natural opening.

Teen period panties: try Simone! 😝


The Simone heavy-flow period panty has some very impressive qualities: 

  • it’s made from over 95% GOTS-certified organic cotton
  • it is certified Oeko-Tex Standard 100, guaranteeing zero PFAS and zero toxic harmful substances, 
  • it’s available in size 3XS (ages 10–12) and 2XS (ages 12–14), perfect for the slimmest teens, 
  • it has a very wide absorbent area that comes up high at the front and back of the panty (no risk of saturation!),
  • it can absorb the equivalent of 4 to 5 tampons, 
  • it’s perfect for a long day of classes or a peaceful night, 
  • and finally, it comes at a super affordable price (€24.90) before custom bundle and promo code discounts. 

Pads: stuck between discomfort and fear of leaks

They may look simple, but sanitary pads actually have several notable drawbacks:

They can be thick and not very discreet (diaper effect under clothing).

If they’re poorly positioned and stuck in your underwear, pads may not be effective and can leak.

Not absorbent enough, they can leave you with an unpleasant feeling of dampness.

The composition can be really poor: chemicals (synthetic fragrances, rigid plastics, glues).

Many teenagers and menstruating women experience irritation, itching or even allergic reactions.

What’s more, during PE class, shifting pads or tampons cause constant anxiety. Your teen ends up having a bad time and an extra mental load.

And last but not least: around 2.4 g of plastic per pad also worsens the ecological impact, a sensitive issue for young people.

The 3 Louloucup teen period panties you can’t miss! 🤩

🍡 Teen period panties: the revolution for stress-free periods

When tampons feel tricky for a teenager and pads are unattractive and impractical, there’s a perfect alternative: teen period underwear!

So what exactly is a period panty?

A washable period panty looks like regular underwear but includes an ultra-absorbent technical zone made up of three layers. The first, in contact with the skin, wicks moisture away to direct the flow toward the second absorbent layer. The third, waterproof layer prevents leaks. The main fabric, often certified organic cotton, ensures comfort and health safety.

In other words, washable period panties are menstrual products that can be reused cycle after cycle without being thrown away. They’re eco-friendly, economical and practical.

Teen period panties: all the life-changing benefits

Teen period panties combine practicality, safety and respect for the body. Here are their key benefits:

Ease of use: simple to slip on, ideal for a first period, with no complicated handling.

Total discretion: Invisible under clothing, it eliminates the stress of visible pads or liners.

Leak-proof security: Protects for up to 10 hours, even during sports or at night, thanks to suitable styles. Teens can wear it all day or all night.

Maximum comfort: made from fabrics certified to Oeko‑Tex Standard 100 or plant‑based natural fibres from organic farming (cotton, bamboo), teen period panties prevent irritation and chafing — essential for sensitive skin.

Ecological commitment: reusable, it replaces about 150 disposable protections, reducing environmental impact.

For teenagers, specific styles such as the Liv heavy-flow teen period panty, the Mathilde heavy-flow panty and the Lucie medium-flow teen panty in XXS from Louloucup are perfect. Paired with the Manon menstrual bikini bottom, they make an ideal set for teens.

"Choosing menstrual underwear means opting for the freedom to move, laugh, and live your days without worrying about your period, with complete confidence and peace of mind."

Lucie
Lucie
Lucie

🍡 How to choose your first teen menstrual underwear?

Ok, you’re convinced: you need some teen period panties so you can finally experience your period with confidence and peace of mind! But how do you choose properly and avoid picking the wrong brand, style or absorbency?


At Louloucup, we offer many different period panties, including a special teen range. It features some of the brand’s signature designs available in XXS or EU size 32 for very petite teens. You can also find all our different period panties starting from size XS in our main collection.

Criterion no. 1: finding the right size

Size is essential to avoid leaks and ensure optimal comfort. For period panties to work properly (so they can collect the flow correctly), they must fit your body well. They shouldn’t be too loose.


To measure your hip circumference, place the tape measure around the widest part of your hips, parallel to the floor. Louloucup offers sizes suitable for teenagers, such as XXS (73–84 cm) and XS (84–91 cm).


If you’re unsure, go for the larger size (unless advised otherwise): a slightly bigger panty will fit better without digging into your skin.

Matching your protection to your menstrual flow

Louloucup period panties come in three absorbency levels: light, medium and heavy. For first periods or nights, choose a heavy-flow style so it can handle both intense and irregular flow without any problem.


Its thick, extended absorbent area offers maximum security. Heavy-flow panties like Mathilde or Liv can hold the equivalent of 5 tampons! You’re covered for many hours!

Choose safe, reassuring materials

Choose **GOTS-certified organic cotton**, and fabrics certified Oeko-Tex Standard 100, guaranteeing the absence of harmful substances such as endocrine disruptors or **PFAS**. This certification ensures impeccable hygiene, which is essential for sensitive skin.

Mathilde
Mathilde
Mathilde

🍡 Our Louloucup selection, perfect for teenagers

Louloucup period underwear are emerging as an innovative solution for teenagers.

  • Comfortable, they avoid the downsides of tampons (tricky insertion) and pads (irritation or slipping out of place).
  • Reusable for 5 to 7 years, they replace up to 150 disposable products per year, combining environmental friendliness with savings.
  • Their absorbent technology prevents that damp feeling for up to 10 hours – a real plus for a busy young girl’s day.
culottes menstruelles

Comparison of the top models for teens

Model
Flow level
Style
Ideal for...
Mathilde (available in XXS)
Heavy and very heavy flow
Mid‑rise fit, solid black
School days and daily activities (absorption equivalent to 5 tampons). Or night: the protection rises high at the front and back.
Liv (available in XXS)
Heavy and very heavy flow
Seamless
Perfect for heavy-flow days, nights and sports thanks to its extended absorbent area. Seamless, it is completely invisible under even the tightest clothing.
Lucie (available in XXS)
Light flow and medium flow
Classic cut, black with gold detail
Start/end of your period or as a backup to another protection (OCS organic cotton). Discreet under tight clothing (flat seams), it combines style and functionality.

The ideal starter pack for teens and first periods

For an organic, eco-friendly and practical period routine:

1 Liv panty: Maximum security for intense flow during sports and restless nights (full-coverage cut). Ideal for first periods, which are often unpredictable. We love how invisible it is (seamless).

1 Mathilde panty: Versatile for heavy flow (breathable fabric, ideal for school). With organic cotton on the inside, it’s suitable for sensitive skin.

1 Lucie panty: Light and feminine for medium flow. Perfect for irregular spotting at the start or as a backup panty to always keep in your bag.

1 Turquoise cup (size S): Swimming or sport (up to 6 hours, medical‑grade silicone, made in France). Compatible with Louloucup period swimsuits for double protection.

1 Manon bikini bottom: enjoy the pool even on your period!

This teen period panty pack covers every need. With the automatic discount, these 4 items come to €90.80 instead of €101.60. With Louloucup, the custom bundle with sliding-scale prices lets you save a lot. Try it and see for yourself, it’s automatic! And don’t forget to add the current promo code. That way you always get an extra, very attractive discount.


The little extra that makes all the difference? Shipping is free with Louloucup! You only pay for your products.

Other styles available from size XS

🍡 In short.

Teen period underwear offers a reassuring, reliable and robust alternative to traditional disposable tampons and pads, with up to 10 hours of absorption—ideal for school days, high school or sports. They eliminate the risk of irritation, ensure discretion and comfort thanks to organic cotton, and replace up to 150 disposable products: an economical and eco-friendly choice for calm, stress-free first periods!

🍡 Teen period panties FAQ

Which period panty is recommended for a first period?

For a first period, choose period panties made from OEKO-TEX certified organic cotton, with an absorption level suitable for heavy flow to anticipate any leaks. First periods are often surprising. The Mathilde style from Louloucup, with its mid-rise waist, very extended protection, XXS size and full coverage cut, is perfect for reassuring teens.

How can you get a refund for period panties?

In France, the CPAM does not directly reimburse period panties. However, some private health insurers (such as MGEN or MNH) include women’s health packages that partially or fully cover these products. Check with your supplementary health insurance to see whether it covers one or more menstrual products.

What are the best period panties for teenage girls?

The best options for teenage girls are: the Mathilde style (XXS), the Liv style (XXS) or the Lucie style (XXS), which are all perfect for teens. Made from organic cotton and free from toxic substances, these styles combine discretion, comfort and durability.

What are the potential drawbacks of period underwear?

The main drawbacks lie in the initial adjustment period: daily washing is required, and a trial phase can be helpful to find the ideal size and absorbency level. The upfront cost is higher than a pack of pads, but it pays for itself very quickly.

What’s the best panty for heavy flow?

The Mathilde heavy-flow menstrual panties for teens in size XXS are the best heavy-flow period panties for adolescents. They were even mentioned by 20 Minutes as one of the best menstrual panties in 2025.

Louloucup

Camille

I’ve been writing for Louloucup for several years now, and I love chatting about everything from period panties to grandma’s remedies for easing period pain! Every week I share my favorites and inspirations with one goal in mind: finally experiencing calm, stress-free periods! 🩷

To learn more...

Affordable, comfortable, organic teen period underwear?