meilleures culottes menstruelles

The best period underwear for your flow

Written by: Camille Raynaud

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Published on

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Time to read 7 min

Are you convinced that period panties are THE perfect menstrual protection? You’re absolutely right! This ultra-absorbent underwear has it all. But how do you choose the right one? What are the best period panties? Which period underwear should you pick? Which model will best meet your expectations, your needs, and especially your menstrual flow?


Which period underwear is best for your flow?


With so many options for discretion, comfort, and protection, the choice is vast—but not always easy!


Check out our selection made just for you, tailored to every type of period. The period panties we talk about below are perfect for both day and night.
They’re a great replacement for disposable pads and tampons. Designed for all types of periods and flow intensities, discover our different categories: light flow, medium flow, heavy flow, and very heavy flow for healthy, hygienic protection that finally meets your needs!

🩷 4 categories of period underwear based on your flow

At Louloucup, we offer several models of period panties or menstrual underwear. They’re categorized based on menstrual flow intensity. In other words, not all our period underwear has the same absorbency. 


Menstrual underwear can’t all absorb, for example, a very heavy menstrual flow. It depends on the absorbent area sewn inside the underwear: the absorbent layer. It depends on whether it’s wide or narrow, double or even triple layered.

So you’ll find panties and menstrual thongs for light flows. They’re also great for vaginal discharge and light spotting outside of your period. These styles have an absorbency equivalent to 1 or 2 tampons.

Next, there are the menstrual panties for moderate flow, meaning normal or medium flow. These have an absorbency equivalent to 2 to 3 tampons.

Period underwear for heavy flow has an extended absorbent layer that can handle a strong menstrual flow. These period panties can absorb the equivalent of 4 to 5 tampons, depending on the style.

Finally, the last category of period underwear: heavy flow period panties. These have double protection and an extended absorbent area that goes high up the front and back of the underwear. They can absorb as much as more than 5 tampons.

🩷 Period underwear for light flow

The light flow period underwear fits seamlessly into our daily routine. Designed for light period days or occasional spotting, it’s the perfect alternative to traditional pads, and especially to disposable, plastic-filled panty liners!

Chloé for light flows

Discover the Chloé period panty by Louloucup, specially designed for comfort and peace of mind.
Made for light flow, this hygienic protection is equivalent to 1 to 2 tampons and gives you unmatched freedom of movement. Its soft, breathable fabric hugs your body without constriction. Perfect for light spotting or as a backup to other protection, it fits seamlessly into your period routine. Treat yourself to this cool, feminine, simple, and elegant little essential!


The Chloé fitted thong from Louloucup doesn’t compromise on absorbency, discretion, or comfort.

Its highlights:
- Made from organic cotton and elastane, it’s exceptionally soft.
- Available from XS to XXL, so every woman can find her perfect fit.

chloé tanga

"This is my favorite style for the beginning and end of my period! I love it! No leaks and great absorption all day. Plus, it’s really pretty and so comfortable to wear." — Émilie T.

💫 For light flow, you can also try the Mia period underwear in black lace—super light and discreet.

🩷 Period underwear for medium flow

Period panties for moderate flow are perfectly suited for heavier period days. They offer reliable all-day protection thanks to their enhanced absorbency. Be surprised by their lasting comfort and optimal effectiveness. The Lucie period panty by Louloucup is a great example of this adaptability.

Designed to hold the equivalent of 2 to 3 tampons, these period products provide 8 to 10 hours of uninterrupted comfort. Their patented technology effectively locks in your flow without causing any unpleasant dampness. Check out our moderate flow collection for peace of mind every day.

Lucie for medium flow


The Lucie by Louloucup stands out for its enveloping comfort and consistent effectiveness. Designed for moderate, normal, and medium flows, this panty is made from organic cotton (95% organic cotton, 5% elastane) and moves with you. Its discreet design and solid color make it a valuable ally. Created with love, it combines softness and performance.


Absorbs the equivalent of 2 to 3 tamponscreated in Portugal, with flat seams , available from size XXS (in teen version, equivalent to a US 2) up to XXL size (equivalent to size 44), Lucie is a big hit!

lucie

"I just tried it and it's amazing! The fit is perfect, it's comfortable to wear, and it works great! I'm thrilled with this purchase." Amélie B.

💫 For medium flows, we also recommend Margot, Ella, Gaby, or Naomi!

🩷 Period underwear for heavy flow

To handle heavy periods, you need reliable, full-coverage protection you can trust. With a heavy flow period panty, you can relax and feel confident knowing you’ll stay dry for hours. No leaks, no dampness—you’ll be comfortable all day or night.

Fanny for heavy flow

Black, lacy, discreet, and pretty, Fanny absorbs heavy periods. Available in sizes XS to 3XL, Fanny features a high-rise absorbent area at the back for a worry-free night’s sleep.


The period underwear for heavy flow designed for teens and women with heavier periods or on days when flow is more intense.


Designed to hold the equivalent of 3-4 tampons, these products are perfect for heavier bleeding.

flux abondant fanny

💫 For heavy flows, don't forget about the Simone heavy flow period underwear!

🩷 Period underwear for very heavy flow

To handle very heavy flows, including heavy bleeding caused by a copper IUD, postpartum bleeding, or light urinary leaks, extra-absorbent period underwear is perfect!


As of now, you’ll find 5 Louloucup styles with an absorbency equivalent to 4 or 5 regular tampons. These panties have an extended absorbent area, and it’s double-layered (which sometimes explains the slightly higher price).


You can go about your day with complete peace of mind, even with a heavy flow.

Clara for very heavy flows


Equipped with advanced absorption technology, the Clara period underwear holds up to 12 hours of heavy flow. Its double-layer absorbent membrane at the front and back equals 5 regular tampons, giving you extended freedom. Ideal for heavy bleeding, it adapts to your body shape.


Available from XS to 5XL, the Clara model by Louloucup fits all body types. Its price of €33.90 makes it a smart investment for more comfortable periods. The high waist and full-coverage cut provide perfect support, even when lying down or being active.


Did you know? Clara and Mathilde were voted best period panties of 2025 by the newspaper 20 Minutes!

clara

"I have a very heavy flow. Today I wasn’t working, so I tried these heavy flow panties. I wore them as if I were working and they lasted 10 hours without leaking. I’m sold. I’ll be ordering more." Chrystelle L.

💫 For very heavy flows, you’ll also love Mathilde, Jade, Leo, and Liv!

🩷 In summary: which period underwear should you choose?

Our top tips for choosing the best period underwear:

If you have regular, light periods, a period thong and a few medium-flow period panties may be enough. If you want extra peace of mind or tend to worry about leaks, don’t hesitate to add a heavy-flow model to your cart. That way, you’ll stay dry all night.

If you experience light discharge, spotting, or various types of vaginal discharge, light-flow period underwear is perfect for you. It’s an excellent replacement for a panty liner.

If you use a copper IUD, heavy and super-heavy flow period underwear will be best suited to handle your very heavy flow!

If you're active and play sports even during your period, we recommend a seamless heavy-flow period panty (Liv is perfect).

If you experience light urinary leaks, panties designed for very heavy flows make excellent protection. You’ll stay dry for hours!

If you’re a new mom, going through postpartum and experiencing various types of discharge, our postpartum range is made for you!

Other period underwear you shouldn’t miss:

Best period underwear FAQ

Why is my period flow getting heavier?

Several factors can cause an increase in menstrual flow, including hormonal changes like those during puberty or perimenopause. The presence of fibroids or polyps in the uterus can also lead to heavier bleeding.


It’s important to see a healthcare professional if you notice excessively heavy or frequent heavy periods. Additional tests may be needed to check for possible issues.

How can you make your period less heavy?

Heavy periods can be influenced by various factors. Hormonal contraceptive methods, such as the pill, the ring, or the hormonal IUD, can reduce the heaviness of your period by affecting estrogen production. Low estrogen levels can also cause lighter periods.


It’s important to consult a doctor, gynecologist, or midwife if you have excessively heavy or hemorrhagic periods, as treatment is often necessary and additional tests may be needed to identify any underlying issues.

Why does my period underwear smell bad?

Menstrual underwear can develop unpleasant odors mainly due to insufficient or improper washing. Poor care leads to bacterial buildup. It’s essential to rinse your underwear in cold water after use and machine wash at 86°F (30°C) without fabric softener or bleach.

Using unsuitable products like fabric softeners or harsh detergents can also clog the absorbent fibers. If the smell persists, a baking soda soak or soaking in white vinegar can help. Also, make sure to check your underwear for signs of wear.

To learn more ...

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