On this page:

• How we choose what we test
• How we test tampons
• Test criteria explained

Here’s how we lab test tampons so you can find the best type for your needs and feel comfortable and protected during “that time of the month”.

How we choose what we test

With such a huge range of tampons on the market, what makes us choose one product to test over another?

Well, as with most of our product testing, our aim is to test the most popular brands on the market and to reflect what you’re likely to see in stores.

We check instore to see what’s available and we survey manufacturers to find out about their range of products. We use this information to put together a final list that goes to our buyers, who then head out to the retailers and purchase each product, just as a regular consumer would.

We do this so we can be sure the products are the same as any consumer would find them and not ‘tweaked’ in any way for better performance.

How we test tampons

We send the tampons to a laboratory for testing, where they’re tested against clauses of the Australian Standard for tampons AS 2869:2008.Ìý

We also calculate the value for money of each product by calculating how much each tampon costs based on the pack size.Ìý

Absorbency score 

We test five tampons per model for their absorptive capacity (i.e. how much they can absorb) and compare the result to the absorptive capacity claim for each product.

Cord strength score

We assess the pull strength of the withdrawal cord and its attachment point by testing two tampons in a dry state and two tampons in a wet state. We document the force required to detach the cord from the tampon body or break the cord for each tampon.Ìý

Cord length score 

We measure the length of the withdrawal cord for each tampon tested.Ìý

Test criteria explained

The ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating is made up of:

• absorbency (70%)
• cord strength (20%)
• cord length (10%).

The post How we test tampons appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Having a period can be a financial liability, costing more than $9000 in sanitary products over a lifetime.ÌýNot only do periods make a dent in your wallet, they can also take a toll on the environment. If you use single-use period products, you’ll end up throwing 5000 to 15,000 pads or tampons into landfill over the course of your menstruating life.

So here’s a guide to which period products (reusable or single-use) can save you money and be better for the environment.

What is the cheapest period product to use?

We’ve calculated that switching from single-use products such as tampons to period underwear (worn day and night) will save you a little over $100 every five years. The cheapest option of them all, however, is to switch to a period cup.

Read on for a breakdown of all the options.

Tampons with a nighttime option

If you’re using tampons, you realistically require another product to cover the hours you’re asleep. This is to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) – the rare yet potentially life-threatening illness thought to be caused by infection with certain types of bacteria, and which may be associated with tampon use.Ìý

To reduce your risk, the  recommends changing your tampon every four to eight hours and using an alternative period product overnight. We therefore calculated the costs for using tampons combined with three nighttime options – pads, period cups and period undies.

The combination of tampons and nighttime period undies was the most expensive option in our cost comparison, setting you back $489.60 over five years.ÌýSlightly better, tampons and pads at night will cost you $436.80 over five years, while tampons and a cup at night will cost $367.60.

As well as cost, there’s also the environmental impact of disposable period products such as tampons and pads to consider, including the resources used in production and transportation, and the fact they’ll end up in landfill.

We don’t test tampons for their environmental friendliness, but we can tell you which ones are good value for money – check out our latest tampon reviews. Our cheapest one at 11 cents a tampon has some impressive scores.

Disposable sanitary pads

Modern versions of the old faithful, sanitary pads, may be better quality and easier to use these days, but they certainly aren’t the cheapest option when it comes to using them for your period.Ìý

Over five years, we calculated that using disposable pads for your period will cost you $436.80. Not only are they pricey, but they’ll outlive you in landfill, taking a whopping 300 to 500 years to decompose due to the plastic backing, adhesive strips and packaging.Ìý

More eco-friendly options

But for many menstruators, including those who have just started their period, sanitary pads are a comfortable and easy solution. If you want to use pads but are looking for a more eco-friendly option, there are reusable cloth sanitary pads now available, usually made from cotton, which are clipped to your underwear and easily removed for washing.Ìý

We haven’t included this type of product in our price comparison, as we haven’t reviewed them yet. But there are a few independent Australian brands selling them online.Ìý

Our disposable sanitary pad reviews, as well as our guide on how to choose the best pads and tampons, can help take the stress out of choosing a disposable option and may give you with greater confidence of a leak-free period.

Period cups

Behold the period cup (also known as a menstrual cup or moon cup) – a flexible, bell-shaped cup made of silicon, rubber or latex that’s inserted into the vagina to capture menstrual blood, rather than absorb it. Once it is unfolded in place, it forms a seal that prevents blood from leaking out. When full, it is simply removed, emptied, washed and reinserted.Ìý

With proper maintenance and care, a period cup can last up to 10 years and will only set you back about $40 to $55. There are plenty of pros when it comes to period cups and a few cons, mainly the fact you have to clean the cup, which may not always be simple, convenient or hassle-free. Our menstrual cup guide walks you through what to consider if you’re a first time user.

Aside from cost and personal preference, a major reason to consider the cup is the environment. One study estimated that if you use 12 pads per period, a menstrual cup would generate just 0.4% of the plastic waste, or if you use 12 tampons per period, a menstrual cup would generate just six percent of the plastic waste.

Period undies

In recent years, period underwear products have shifted from marginal to mainstream, with brands such as Bonds, Eco Period, Kmart, Love Luna, Modibodi and Thinx selling versions in multiple styles and colours, either online or instore.

Although they cost more to buy initially than a pack of tampons, it’s good news on the budget front. We calculate that period undies come in at the second cheapest option for your period at $162 over two years and $324 over five. That’s based on using six pairs of undies for a six-day period that you wear day and night. This means if you’re changing your undies every 12 hours, as recommended by , you may only have to do one wash per period cycle.Ìý 

You may want to change your period undies more often throughout the day, depending on personal preference and the heaviness of your flow. So keep in mind that more changes could require more undies to be purchased or more loads of washing done during your period. Or you could also choose to buy fewer pairs and wash them more frequently, reducing your initial outlay of cash.

Trial and error

If you’re just getting started, it may take a little trial and error to find a brand or type of undies that suits you. For the purposes of our cost comparison, we used a price of $27 for a pair of Modibodi Classic Bikini Moderate-Heavy Absorbency undies – but there are cheaper brands available. Bonds Bloody Comfy Period Undies Full Brief Moderate Absorbency cost $24.99 (with further discounts available for multiple buys and Bonds members), Love Luna Moderate/Heavy briefs are priced from $15, and Kmart period briefs are $12 a pair.

We’ve reviewed more than 10 brands of period undies to bring you our take on which period undies are the best. For even greater savings, consider Kmart period briefs – at $12, they offer decent value for money.

Environmental benefits of period underwear

Period undies reduce waste from single-use tampons and pads, eliminate the environmental cost associated with disposing of stained regular underwear, and don’t incur many extra washing resources – this is because they can be chucked in with your clothes on a cold or delicate cycle (some brands require you to rinse them in cold water before washing).

Modibodi also has a new product that’s claimed to be 97% biodegradable. The brand says the new range will start degrading in active soil within weeks (although the elastane will take three to five years).

Can you save on period underwear with bundle packs? 

Some brands offer bundle packs, which may sometimes offer cost savings on the price of period underwear.

But in our cost comparison, period undie bundle packs offered by retailers didn’t always give the best value for money. Some bundles offered real savings, but others worked out at the same cost of purchasing the undies individually.

Also, some bundles were restrictive in their choices of absorbency. For example, one seven-pair bundle offered four heavy-overnight undies and three light-moderate undies – an unsuitable option for someone who has a consistently heavy flow.

So when shopping for period products, be sure to check the unit price of bundles to make sure you’re getting a good deal. Find out how unit pricing can help you save money at the till.

Conclusion: Will period undies save you money?

They can! Although they require a greater outlay of cash initially, we estimate switching from single-use products to period undies worn day and night will save you a little over $100 every five years (if you replace your underwear every three years).Ìý

These costs were calculated based on buying six pairs of period underwear. You could buy fewer pairs if you were willing to wash and re-wear them more frequently during your period.Ìý

If you’re only wearing period undies at night and using tampons or pads during the day, you won’t benefit as much from the long-term savings, knocking off a little less than $30 every five years.

If you’re looking for some serious savings, consider switching to a period cup. We estimate it’ll save you $284 to $449.60 over the next five years.

The post Will switching to period underwear save you money? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Here’s what I’ve learned along the way.Ìý

1. There’s more choice than I thought

Before trying period undies I assumed the only options were bulky full briefs in the style of Bridget Jones.Ìý

But the market seems to be exploding at the moment with more and more brands offering a range of period underwear in various styles (including G-strings!), absorbencies, fabrics and colours.Ìý

Yes, you can still get full brief undies if that’s your preference, but I like that you choose a style that suits you.

2. It feels like a leap of faith

Wearing period undies for the first time can feel like jumping over a huge mental hurdle.ÌýI’ve ruined plenty of briefs over the years by mistiming the start of my cycle, so the thought of bleeding straight onto period underwear (even though that’s their USP) is slightly unnerving.Ìý

Now that I’ve found the undies that suit my needs, I honestly don’t even think about it.Ìý

3. It takes time to find your perfect pair

Depending on how heavy or variable your cycle is, when you first start using period undies you might need to trial a few different absorbency levels to ensure you’re protected.ÌýPartly as you might not know exactly how heavy or light your flow is, and partly because some brands measure absorbency differently.Ìý

You may also want to carry some back up protection with you until you find your perfect pair, just in case the ones you’re wearing aren’t absorbent enough.

4. You start talking about periods to anyone who’ll listen

This could very well be a ‘me problem’, but ever since I made the switch I have talked more about periods, blood, menstrual cycles, etc, than I ever have.Ìý

But it’s a positive side effect – taking away feelings of shame around menstruation for myself and hopefully others is surely a good thing. There shouldn’t be anything taboo about it.Ìý

5. They’re not for everyone

While it’s safe to say I’m a convert, not everyone I’ve spoken to who’s tried period undies before is convinced.Ìý

Some have commented that they felt soggy after wearing them all day. Others have experienced some leakage and simply don’t want to go to the effort of finding a more absorbent pair, preferring to use their usual menstrual protection.Ìý

And that’s OK. Not everyone likes pads or tampons or menstrual cups either. What’s important is that there’s more choice.Ìý

6. No more hiding a tampon up your sleeve

No one should feel like they need to hide being on their period. But for a long time I was definitely one of those people who’d try to act nonchalant while grabbing a tampon from my bag (in discreet packaging, no less), hiding it up my sleeve and then doing what felt like the ‘walk of shame’ across the office to the bathroom. Now, once I’m dressed for the day, I can mostly forget about being on my period.

7. You can wear them as back up

That said, there are still days when I use them as an added line of defence in conjunction with a pad or tampon.Ìý

I find this particularly helpful on days when my flow is heavy yet I only have lighter absorbency pairs to hand – or when I know I’m going to be wearing them for an extended period of time. Or sometimes just when I don’t want to spend as much time pre-rinsing them.Ìý

8. You need to change up your laundry routine

To help prolong their efficacy and lifespan, it’s recommended you follow the manufacturer’s washing guidelines. While this differs from brand to brand, generally you’ll need to pre-rinse your undies in water before popping them in the wash on a cold cycle and then line drying (no dryers!).

This was the hardest adjustment for me because I hate doing laundry – let alone spending more time in the laundry than usual. So while I do think it’s important to follow the washing instructions, there have been many times when I’ve thrown my period undies in the wash without pre-rinsing – and, yes, even run them through the dryer.

9. I wish I had these when I was younger

When you first start menstruating as a teen or tween, it can take a while to know your cycle, so wearing period undies can take away any anxiety you might feel about unexpected bleeding or leakage. Several brands now offer a specialised youth range of period undies in a range of sizes.Ìý

I wish I could go back in time and let a younger me use period undies instead of bulky pads. (You think a tampon up the sleeve at work is bad? Try crossing a busy schoolyard with what feels like a large kitchen sponge hidden in your dress pocket).Ìý

The post 9 things I’ve learned while wearing period underwear appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• How we choose our products
• User trial
• Lab observations
• Laundry lab wear and tear test

Our trial and tests help you find the best period underwear for your needs.

How we choose our products

As period underpants grow in popularity, more brands are joining the market. To narrow our selection, we chose brands that are readily available in department stores, supermarkets or online and that have a range of absorbency/flow options. For style consistency, we chose a full brief (or closest alternative).Ìý

Our team of ÌÇÐÄVlog buyers then purchased each product, just as a normal consumer would. This is so we could be sure they were the same as any consumer would find them and not ‘tweaked’ in any way.

User trial

We recruited 56 ÌÇÐÄVlog staff and supporters to each trial two or three different brands of period undies.

Each volunteer trialled two pairs for each brand – one for daytime (moderate absorbency or closest equivalent), and a different pair for overnight (heavy absorbency or closest equivalent).Ìý

Triallists were asked to wash and dry each pair according to instructions found on the packaging/undies before wearing.Ìý

Each brand was trialled on a moderate flow day during the triallists’ cycle, with the day pair starting from when they got dressed for the day, changing into the overnight pair as they got ready for bed. On average, the undies were worn for 9.4 hours.Ìý

The triallists also completed a post-trial survey form and were asked to rate each pair of underwear on a scale from terrible to excellent, which we converted to a score out of 100. Each pair of undies was trialled a minimum of 30 times in total.Ìý

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​​The ÌÇÐÄVlog overall score is made up of:

• triallist overall score (35%)
• performance (35%)
• overall comfort (20%) 
• ease of use (10%).

The performance score is made up of:

• no leakage (40%)
• absorbency (35%) 
• odour control (15%).

The overall comfort score is made up of:

• comfort (60%) 
• fit (40%).

The ease of use score is made up of:

• ease of washing (50%) 
• drying time satisfaction (50%).

All scores are based on our post-trial survey responses.Ìý

The ‘no leakage’ score refers to the percentage of participants who experienced no leaks whatsoever. The ‘drying time satisfaction’ score refers to participants’ high satisfaction with the time it takes for the underwear to dry (the higher the score, the better).

For a full comparison of how each brand scored, see our period undies review.

Lab observations

We also sent five pairs of each period underwear to a laboratory to observe absorbency speed, wet feeling, and to look for signs of leakage. (The results weren’t included in our user trial scores.)

Absorbency speed

Using a special dosing apparatus, each item was assessed for its absorbency speed. A specific amount of saline solution was dosed into the centre of the period undies using the dosage pump. The amount of time it took for the liquid to disappear was recorded and the process was repeated once more after waiting for five minutes. The total time for both gushes to absorb was taken as the absorption speed.

Leaks

If any leaks out the side of the underwear were visible during the absorption test, these leaks were rated as light, moderate or heavy as an average over the five undies.

Wet feeling

Exactly five minutes after the last gush from the absorption test, six pre-weighed dry filter papers were placed on the wet underwear and held down by the dosing apparatus for 30 seconds. The filter paper was then removed and immediately weighed. Ideally, the filter paper should remain relatively dry.

Note: The results for LoveLuna Period Midi Brief (light-moderate absorbency) and Modibodi Seamfree Full Brief (moderate-heavy absorbency) were incomplete.

Laundry lab wear and tear test

In addition to the user trial, we also sent one pair of each period underwear to ÌÇÐÄVlog’s laundry laboratory to find out what effect washing and drying would have on their condition over time.Ìý

The undies were washed in a large, impeller top-loading washing machine on a cotton cold cycle, with half a scoop of detergent for each wash.

Based on the assumption you might bung them in the dryer instead of line-drying, for every five washes the undies were put through a gentle dryer program. For every 20 washes (and once more at the conclusion of the test), they were put through an intensive dryer cycle.Ìý

In total, the undies ran through 48 wash cycles and 10 dryer cycles (three of which would be considered intensive).Ìý

The post How we test period underwear appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

In March this year, Kmart became one of the latest brands to launch a period underwear range – releasing a bikini and full brief option for just $12 each.Ìý

To find out how how well they work, we recruited 16 volunteers to trial both pairs and assess them for comfort, absorbency, ease of use and more.

What are Kmart period briefs?

At a glance, both the bikini and full brief period briefs look just like an ordinary pair of Kmart underpants – the difference is you can wear these on your period either as standalone menstrual protection, or as backup when wearing a tampon or menstrual cup. This is because the gusset is made of four layers for “absorbency and protection” to wick away moisture and odour.

The briefs come in two styles – bikini (moderate absorbency) and full brief (heavy absorbency) – are made of 95% cotton and are available in sizes 6 to 20.

Do they work? 

Sixteen ÌÇÐÄVlog staff were recruited to try both pairs of Kmart period underwear – one for daytime (bikini brief, moderate absorbency) and one pair for overnight (full brief, heavy absorbency). For more information, s±ð±ðÌýhow we test.

Overall, triallists preferred the full brief more than the bikini brief, although both pairs were rated fairly evenly when it comes to comfort, fit, odour control and drying.Ìý

(Note: Triallists’ comments have been edited for length and clarity.)

Kmart period full briefs

• Price: $12
• Absorbency: Heavy
• Worn by triallists overnight
• Claimed absorption: 3–4 tampons (mL not stated)
• Made in Indonesia

Overall rating

Generally the participants were positive about these briefs, with three in four rating them good, very good or excellent.Ìý

Most of the participants (10 out of 16) said they’d prefer to wear these undies alone, and two said they’d wear them with a tampon or menstrual cup.Ìý

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Kmart’s full briefs leakage rating is impressive – 15 out of 16 triallists reported no leaks whatsoever. But the one person who did report a leak described it as a large one: “The blood just sat on the surface of the underwear like it was waterproof!”

It also rated well for absorbency, with 13 rating it good or better. Of the 16 participants, nine rated odour control as good, very good or excellent.Ìý

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For both comfort and fit, 13 out of 16 participants rated the briefs as good or better.

Ease of use

When asked about ease of washing, 10 rated it as good, very good or excellent. Ease of drying scored marginally higher, with 11 triallists rating it good or better.Ìý

Comments

Some triallists said they liked the “soft, cotton feel material” and that the “fabric was breathable and fit comfortable”.

Others felt unsure about the absorbency: “It seemed thinner than other brands. This makes me doubt its ability to be used without leaking or additional protection on heavier days.”

One triallist just wasn’t a fan of the style: “These were proper granny undies! Super high-waisted and low-cut on the legs. Which is good for reassurance that you’re not going to leak, but doesn’t exactly make you feel attractive!”

Kmart period bikini briefs

• Price: $12
• Absorbency: Moderate
• Worn by triallists in the daytime
• Claimed absorption: 2–3 tampons (mL not stated)
• Made in Indonesia

Overall rating

Just under half (seven) of the triallists rated the bikini briefs as good, very good or excellent.Ìý

Seven participants said they’d prefer to wear these undies alone and five said they’d wear them in addition to a tampon or menstrual cup.Ìý

Performance

Just over half (nine) of the triallists rated the absorbency as good or better and 75% reported no leaks while wearing the briefs.Ìý

Of the 16 participants, 10 rated odour control as good, very good or excellent.

Comfort

The briefs were rated similarly for both comfort and fit, with 11 participants rating both as good, very good or excellent.

Ease of use 

Ease of washing rated slightly higher than ease of drying, with about three-quarters of participants respectively rating it good or better.

Comments

Some triallists commented on these briefs as being a “great value product” and “comfy”.Ìý

“I was worried it wouldn’t be good quality given the cost, but was pleasantly surprised,” said one triallist.Ìý

“Overall they were really comfy and worked well for me, so I will use them again,” said another.

Not all good news

Others highlighted some negatives, such as it being difficult to tell when full and that the briefs probably wouldn’t be good for heavier days.Ìý

One commenter said: “I just didn’t think it was that much different to normal underwear. The gusset wasn’t thick enough to do enough absorbing.” 

Another commented: “They’re fairly thin in the gusset/absorbent area. I have quite a light flow so it wasn’t a problem for me, but it might be a bit disconcerting if you have a heavy flow.”

Laundry lab wear and tear

We sent a pair of both the bikini and full briefs to ÌÇÐÄVlog’s laundry laboratory to find out how well they last over time after multiple wash and dry cycles.Ìý(For details, see how we test.)

The bikini briefs started to fray at the hem almost straight away and both products demonstrated slight pilling by the end of the test.ÌýBoth briefs also faded quite significantly.Ìý

That said, both briefs generally held up well and are still in good working condition.

How we test

User trial

Traillists were asked to wash and dry each pair according to instructions found on the packaging/undies before wearing.Ìý

The briefs were trialled on a moderate flow day during the triallists’ cycle, with the day pair starting from when they got dressed for the day, changing into the overnight pair as they got ready for bed. On average, both pairs of undies were worn for 8.3 hours each.Ìý

The traillists also completed a post-trial survey form and were asked to rate each pair on a scale from terrible to excellent. Each pair of undies was trialled a minimum of 16 times in total.Ìý

Laundry lab wear and tear test

The undies were washed in a large, impeller top-loading washing machine on a cotton cold cycle, with half a scoop of detergent for each wash.Ìý

Based on the assumption you might bung them in the dryer instead of line-drying, for every five washes the undies were put through a gentle dryer program. For every 20 washes (and once more at the conclusion of the test), they were put through an intensive dryer cycle.Ìý

In total, the undies ran through 48 wash cycles and 10 dryer cycles (three of which would be considered intensive).

The post Kmart period briefs review appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• What is period underwear?
• Which period undies are best?
• What we found
• Lab observations
• How to wash and care for your period undies
• How to buy the best period underwear 
• Are period underpants suitable for tweens and teens? 

Once sold almost exclusively online, the growing popularity of period underwear has seen them hit the shelves of supermarkets and department stores, with new brands entering the market.Ìý

But how do they work? And which brands are best? We asked 56 volunteers to trial 10 period undies from Bonds, Eco Period, Love Luna, Modibodi and Thinx to see how they stack up.Ìý

We also sent them to our labs to examine wear and tear, absorbency speed and more.

What is period underwear?

Period underwear is designed to function like normal underwear, but with the ability to absorb menstrual flow, so you can wear it instead of tampons and pads, or as backup in addition to your usual menstrual product.Ìý

Although the exact design varies between products, period undies generally have a moisture-wicking top layer, over one or more absorbent layers in the gusset, and a leak-resistant final layer. Some brands also have an extra middle layer designed to neutralise odours.

All period underpants are washable and reusable, making them an eco-friendly alternative to disposable sanitary products.

Which period undies are best?

We recruited 56 ÌÇÐÄVlog staff and supporters to each trial two or three different brands of period undies.Ìý

Each volunteer trialled two pairs for each brand – one for daytime (moderate absorbency or closest equivalent) and a different pair for overnight (heavy absorbency or closest equivalent). For more information, see how we test.Ìý

All 10 of the period underwear products we trialled generally performed well, and we’ve recommended those that achieved a ÌÇÐÄVlog score of 70% or more.Ìý

The ÌÇÐÄVlog score is made up of:

• triallist overall score (35%)
• performance (35%)
• comfort (20%) 
• ease of use (10%).

The products are listed below from highest to lowest ÌÇÐÄVlog score. For a full breakdown of each product’s performance, features and more see our period undies review.

(Note: Some triallist comments have been edited for length and clarity.)

Modibodi Seamfree Full Brief

• Price: $33
• Absorbency: Moderate-heavy
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 80%
• Performance: 82%
• Overall comfort: 74%
• Ease of use: 77%.

Worn by triallists in the daytime, these briefs had the highest no-leakage score – out of 34 triallists, only one reported a leak, and it was a small one at that. These also rated highest for performance, ease of use and ease of washing, and equal second highest for absorbency.

Some participants liked the material and style of the undies, commenting: “this soft, stretchy-silky material feels really luxurious and comfortable ” and “wasn’t bulky, felt like I was wearing regular underwear”.

But they had the equal second lowest score for fit, with some commenting that they found the sizing quite tight: “The sizing and cut of the pants weren’t particularly comfortable. They were extremely tight on the first wear, although they do stretch out.” 

There were also comments about them feeling a little wet over time: “After wearing them for a few hours and going to the toilet, when pulling them back on, the gusset feels wet and cold and uncomfortable.”

But they did score second highest for odour control.

Bonds Bloody Comfy Period Full Brief 

• Price: $29.99
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 76%
• Absorbency: Heavy
• Performance: 79%
• Overall comfort: 73%
• Ease of use: 75%.Ìý

These briefs (worn by triallists overnight) had the equal second highest absorbency score: “​I like how you don’t have any mess, as everything is absorbed and doesn’t leave the underwear,” said one triallist. Another said: “These would probably be my first choice for night time use on heavy days due to the excellent absorbency and comfort.”

But the briefs scored equal second lowest for fit, with some commenting that the gusset and style of waistband left a lot to be desired: “I didn’t like the high-waisted-ness or tight, thin elastic waistband – especially painful with bad cramps,” and “I found the fit uncomfortable with a very high waist and the padding in the gusset felt uncomfortable and bulky like a pad.”

Another added: “These have a lot of padding in the gusset that goes up the back towards the tag of the undies, but it doesn’t go very high up at the front. Even with a moderate flow, when I woke up in the morning I came close to leaking over the gusset at the front.” 

These undies had the equal second highest no-leakage score (91%). But of the three participants who did experience leakage, two said they leaked from the front.

Modibodi Seamfree Full Brief

• Price: $35
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 76%
• Absorbency: Heavy-overnight
• Performance: 80%
• Overall comfort: 66%
• Ease of use: 76%.Ìý

Triallists liked the security, absorbency and length of the gusset of these undies (worn overnight). “They provided a lot of protection, especially with the absorbent layer right up to the [back] waist band.” said one. Another commented: “Never experienced any leakage… these have my full trust during the night.”

As a result, they got the highest score for absorbency and odour control, and equal second highest for no leakage.Ìý 

But they scored lowest for fit and comfort, with many finding them tight and difficult to put on: “They were so difficult to even get on… I felt like I was being swallowed by a snake! I only lasted two hours as I couldn’t bear to think of how bad I would have slept with these very tight undies on all night.”

Another triallist found an upside to the tight fit: “That night I remember lying in bed thinking, ‘I’m so sewn into these undies there’s no way anything could possibly escape’… And I was right. After sleeping for eight and a half hours, there were no leaks. I have worn and washed these undies since that fateful first time and am happy to report that they’re much more comfortable now.”

Bonds Bloody Comfy Period Full Brief

• Price: $24.99
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 75%
• Absorbency: Moderate
• Performance: 76%
• Overall comfort: 76%
• Ease of use: 74%.Ìý

Triallists wore Bonds’ moderate period undies in the daytime and gave them the highest score for fit and second highest for overall comfort. Comments included: “Amazing product and very comfortable to wear. I would be happy to wear this instead of using pads from now on,” and “I thought the thickness of the pad was perfect for daytime – the perfect amount of thickness to feel protected without feeling like you’re wearing something heavy duty.”

But others disliked the gusset (“it doesn’t go up very far at the front”, “it felt bulky like a pad”) and some found the overall style uncomfortable: “I didn’t like the combination of a high waist and tight, thin elastic waistband. I get bad cramps so any pressure on my abdomen is very uncomfortable.”

The briefs also got the third highest no-leakage score, with 31 out of 35 triallists experiencing no issues.

Eco Period Orgaknix Super Boyleg

• Recommended by ÌÇÐÄVlog
• Price: $39.90
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 75%
• Absorbency: Super 
• Performance: 77%
• Overall comfort: 73%
• Ease of use: 70%.Ìý

Triallists wore these briefs overnight and some were very happy with them: “I really liked the fit and coverage of these underwear. I also liked that the gusset was very long and extended all the way up to the back to prevent leaking,” said one. Another commented: “It was a firm fit so they did not move around. The good-sized pad area/gusset goes right up the back of the undies, so I can’t see them leaking overnight.”

As a result, they scored second highest for no leakages, third highest for absorbency and equal third for odour control.Ìý

On the downside, some commented that they felt tight, bulky or both: “These felt huge! Very nanna undies-ish, ” said one participant.Ìý

“These were way too tight around my legs, despite being the correct size overall…The gusset going all the way up the back might be necessary for night time, but it felt like I was wearing a nappy,” said another.Ìý

The briefs also scored lowest for drying-time satisfaction.

Love Luna Period Bamboo Brief

• Recommended by ÌÇÐÄVlog
• Price: $20
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 75%
• Absorbency: Medium 
• Performance: 73%
• Overall comfort: 77%
• Ease of use: 75%.Ìý

Triallists wore Love Luna’s Period Bamboo Briefs overnight and gave them top scores for comfort and fit (highest and equal highest, respectively). Many were pleased the undies didn’t feel bulky, with comments including: “Really comfy, and felt good against my skin. I loved the fabric, didn’t feel too stiff or bulky.” 

Others found the absorbency disappointing, with one commenting: “Just two hours in wearing this, the edges and the outside of the gusset felt damp. The absorbency must be really bad as in the morning when I woke up I could feel a layer of blood dried up on my pelvic floor sticking to the undies.” 

Thinx Super Cotton Brief

• Recommended by ÌÇÐÄVlog
• Price: $US39 ($54.99, may change depending on exchange rate)
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 73%
• Absorbency: Super
• Performance: 72%
• Overall comfort: 77%
• Ease of use: 73%.Ìý

Positive comments included “Not so bulky” and “no visible signs of crotch bulk”. Other triallists were impressed by the overall comfort: “These were comfortable, fit well and worked great. I had no fears of staining my bedsheets when wearing these to bed.”

As a result, these briefs (which were worn overnight) scored equal highest for overall comfort, as well as fit.Ìý

But they also got the second lowest drying-time satisfaction score – “It takes a long time to dry, so you can’t wash by hand and rewear on the same period,” said one triallist – and six out of 30 triallists experienced small to moderate leaks.Ìý

Eco Period Orgaknix Bikini

• Recommended by ÌÇÐÄVlog
• Price: $29.90
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 71%
• Absorbency: Moderate
• Performance: 66%
• Overall comfort: 75%
• Ease of use: 74%.Ìý

Triallists wore these briefs during the day and were positive about the fit: “They felt really comfy and I honestly forgot I was wearing them. They didn’t feel thick; just like undies made from a thick material, rather than nappy-ish.” The result is that they scored equal highest for fit.Ìý

But 31% of triallists experienced small to moderate leaks, with some pointing out that the beige fabric could lead to visible staining. “The fact that they were beige made me uncomfortable, as I could see where some blood had leaked through to the other side of the underwear. They would be a good colour if you wanted to wear white, see-through or light-coloured clothing, but I didn’t really like them.”

Thinx Hiphugger

• Price: $US34 ($47.94, may change depending on exchange rate)
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 69%
• Absorbency: Moderate
• Performance: 63%
• Overall comfort: 75%
• Ease of use: 75% 

Triallists wore the Hiphuggers during the day and were positive about the fit: “these are a comfortable cut and didn’t feel bulky”, said one. Others liked the “cute” decorative lace waistband. “It felt like I was wearing something a little extra special than just standard boring underwear,” said another.Ìý

But not everyone was on board: “the lace waistband kept rolling down instead of hugging me, so I had to keep tugging them up throughout the day.”

Some also experienced a sense of wetness – “After going to the toilet it was wet to pull the pants back up again, which is not a nice feeling,” said one – and 37% of triallists reported some sort of leak. They were mostly small leaks onto the underwear itself, but there were a few instances of leaks onto clothing.Ìý

Love Luna Period Midi Brief

• Price: $15
• ÌÇÐÄVlog score: 67%
• Absorbency: Light/medium
• Performance: 62%
• Overall comfort: 75%
• Ease of use: 76%.Ìý

Several participants commented that these undies (worn during the day) were “soft and comfortable” and “just like wearing regular undies.” One said: “I wore these to work and wasn’t worried about them being bulky or noticeable.” They also got the highest score for drying-time satisfaction.Ìý

But other triallists thought they had poor absorbency and odour control (these briefs scored lowest for both), with comments including: “These didn’t absorb as well as I would’ve liked. The period almost just sat on top of the underwear once it was ‘full’,” and “I did notice a bit of an odour… but I don’t think it would be so noticeable to other people.” There were also a few reports of leaks onto clothing.

What we found

Would you wear period underwear again? 

At the end of the trial, 75% of participants who wore the Eco Period Orgaknix Super Boyleg at night time said they’d wear it as their sole menstrual protection – the highest score across all brands.Ìý

Bonds Bloody Comfy Period Full Briefs (both products) also scored well with 71%, and Thinx’s Hiphugger scored lowest with 37%.

Leakage

Modibodi’s moderate-heavy Seamfree Full Brief was the highlight of our trial – only one person experienced a leak and it was a small one.Ìý

But we found that the Eco Period, Love Luna and Thinx briefs worn during the day are more likely to leak, with 31%, 30% and 37% of triallists, respectively, experiencing one.Ìý

Overall, across all brands, leakage was more likely with the moderate pants our traillists wore during the day – a total of 22% had some type of leakage, compared with 12% of the heavy ‘night’ pants.Ìý 

According to the participants, the leakages were mainly small, only onto the underwear itself, and leaked on the side, although a couple of those who slept on their tummies had leakage in the front of the night pants.

There were exceptions, but only four large leaks were reported during this trial of 328 wears. One participant had an “epic fail” with the Bonds day product, commenting: “By 5pm, they were too full and it was leaking from everywhere… Maybe I needed a higher absorbency that day, or to change them at lunch time.” 

Price

The period undies we looked at ranged in price from $15 to $54.99. As we often find in our tests and trials, price is no indication of performance.Ìý

That said, several of the more expensive undies did receive some of the highest scores. But of the undies our triallists wore at night, Love Luna’s $20 briefs generally performed the same or better than Thinx’s $50 briefs.Ìý

Colour choices

Many brands offer their period undies in a range of colours. We chose black underwear for our trial where possible, with the exception of one pair of Eco Period briefs, which were beige with a black gusset.Ìý

Some participants suggested the beige colour made the ‘leakage’ on the side of the pants more obvious than if they were black.

Inconsistency between brands

We found that the stated flow and claimed absorption for each period undies can vary between brands. For example, Thinx moderate undies are claimed to absorb 27mL – which is 7mL more than Bonds’ and Modibodi’s heavy-flow products.Ìý

When choosing the right undies for your flow, you may find it easier to compare claimed absorption – often presented as tampons (about 5mLs), mLs or both – and try out a few different brands to find the one that works for you.

We also found that not all brands have the absorbency labelled on the undies themselves. So if you own multiple pairs with a range of absorbency, you may find it difficult to pick the right pair each day, as your flow changes during your cycle.Ìý

Lab observations

As well as our user trial, we sent five pairs of each product to a laboratory to assess absorbency speed and wet feeling, and to look for signs of leakage. (The results weren’t included in our user trial scores.)

Bonds (both products) scored highest for absorbency speed, followed by Eco Period (both products).Ìý

Modibodi’s Seamfree Full Brief (heavy/overnight absorbency) and Bonds Bloody Comfy Period Full Brief (moderate absorbency) took the top two slots, respectively, in our wet-feeling score.ÌýAll the products either had just light or no leaks.Ìý

Laundry lab wear and tear

We also sent one pair of each period undie to our laundry laboratory to find out what effect washing and drying would have on their condition over time.

“Overall, each pair largely held up well with no major failures and all in good functional condition,” says Ashley Iredale, ÌÇÐÄVlog’s laundry and whitegoods expert.

But there was some wear and tear – many of the cotton based products demonstrated slight piling by the end of the test.Ìý

“There was also significant colour fade on most pairs, starting with the Bonds at around 20 runs but worsening, and spreading to other brands as the test continued,” says Ashley.Ìý

“Several are now a rather pleasing shade of royal purple, as opposed to black.”

From a visual point of view, both Modibodi briefs showed virtually no signs of wear and tear, which is probably due to their fabric composition (polyamide, elastane, smart merino and polyester).

Wear and tear images: before and after

How to wash and care for your period undies

The exact washing and drying instructions for period undies vary between brands, but in general most will suggest:

• rinsing them after use until the water runs clear
• washing them on a cold cycle 
• line drying them only (no tumble drying).

Other instructions may include avoiding fabric softener, washing in a laundry bag and using a delicate cycle.Ìý

This can be a change in routine for many who are used to putting their usual underwear in the wash, along with the rest of the laundry.Ìý

Triallist thoughts

We asked participants to comment on the care instructions. Overall, they seem unlikely to change their laundry habits or do a separate load just for the period underwear.Ìý 

Some found it annoying that they had to pre-rinse and that it could take a while for the water to run clear. Several also mentioned that period undies take longer to line dry than regular underwear.

But other participants said they didn’t mind the care instructions, and one participant even found a unique positive compared with their usual menstrual protection: “I didn’t find the rinsing and washing process particularly onerous – certainly no more mess or work than using a menstrual cup, and without the constant fear of dropping the menstrual cup and having to clean blood off the floor!”

How to buy the best period underwear 

Overall, for every pair of period underwear we trialled, there were participants who disliked, liked or loved them. So choosing the perfect period underwear for you may come down to a personal journey of trial and error of different brands and absorbency levels.Ìý

But there are some general things you may want to keep in mind.Ìý

Standalone vs backup

Consider whether you want to use the underpants alone as your menstrual protection; in conjunction with a tampon or menstrual cup; or on those days when you’re not sure exactly when your period will start. If you intend to use them in the  latter two scenarios, you may only need a ‘light’ to ‘moderate’ flow pair.Ìý

Absorbency

Your period may be light, moderate, heavy or varied – most brands offer a wide range of absorbencies to match. Generally, the options start from light or very light ( about one-half to one tampon’s worth) all the way through to heavy or overnight (up to four tampons’ worth).Ìý

But different brands measure one tampon’s worth differently, which makes it trickier to compare products. Most brands offer comparisons to other menstrual products, such as pads or menstrual cups, to help you get an idea of absorbency. If in doubt, you may want to choose a heavier absorbency, or carry a tampon, pad or cup with you as backup.

Gusset length

You may want a longer gusset (i.e. running the full length from front to back) for added protection when wearing overnight or for heavier flow days. But this will also make the underpants feel a little bulkier.Ìý

In our trial, only Love Luna’s bamboo briefs had a gusset that ran from the front to the back waistband. Bonds’ heavy full brief, Eco Period’s orgaknix super boyleg brief and Modibodi’s heavy/overnight full brief featured a gusset that ran up to the back waistband.Ìý

How many pairs will I need?

There’s no set formula as to how many pairs you’ll need because it depends on whether they’re paired with other products, and how heavy your menstrual flow is.

Your tolerance for feeling a little wet as the underwear begins to reach capacity is also a factor. But unless you have a particularly heavy flow, you can usually wear one pair all day, then use a fresh pair overnight.Ìý

If you’re planning to wear them for the entirety of your cycle, take into consideration that you need to give each pair time to line dry (though we found they held up pretty well in the dryer), so you could need up to six pairs over three days and nights if you’re using them alone.

Style preferences

Period underwear comes in a range of colours, material and styles (including G-string) so you can choose according to comfort or to fit your outfit.

Are period underpants suitable for tweens and teens? 

For teens and ‘tweens’ (those aged between about eight and 12 years) only just embarking on a lifetime of menstrual cycles, period underpants can offer a comfortable and confidence-building alternative to pads or tampons.

‘Knowing your cycle’ isn’t easy in the early months and years, and unexpected bleeding or leakage can cause anxiety. Judging by the lively conversations on this topic on social media, many mums are just as anxious for their daughters.

Eco Period, Love Luna, Modibodi and Thinx all offer a range of period underpants aimed at teens and tweens, in a variety of styles, colours and sizes.

The post Period underwear – Modibodi, Thinx, Bonds and more compared appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

You’ve probably heard of period underwear by now – underwear that you can use instead of single use pads or tampons during your menstrual cycle.

If you’re already a period underwear convert, you’ll be excited to know that some companies such as Modibodi are expanding their range to include activewear that can absorb menstrual flow and be safely worn throughout your period.

We trialled their 7/8 Recycled Active Leggings to see how they hold up against a few different types of exercise.

What are Modibodi period leggings?

Modibodi’s period-proof leggings look pretty much just like any other pair of leggings you’d wear while exercising. They have a sleek, black appearance and you probably wouldn’t be able to pick that they’re period-proof leggings at a glance (if you look very closely, you might be able to spot it).

They’re only available in one level of absorbency – moderate to heavy. This means that they can safely hold 15mL of liquid, which is the equivalent of two to three tampons’ worth.

How do you wear them?

They’re designed to be worn without a pad, tampon or cup. That also means that you wear them without underwear. As these are leggings, that can be a bit of a daunting prospect at first!

The leggings have an in-built, merino wool, polyester and polyamide gusset, which takes the place of underwear and absorbs your menstrual flow.

Is it strange wearing leggings without underwear? 

This was the number one question on my mind before trialling the leggings. I really couldn’t imagine heading out on a 5km run or even going on a leisurely stroll around my neighbourhood without any underwear on, particularly while, you know, heavily bleeding.Ìý

It did feel very strange to pull the leggings up and on without wearing underwear (is this how Winnie the Pooh feels all the time?). But once they were actually on, it was completely fine. The in-built gusset, combined with how tight the leggings are, really does make it feel like you are wearing underwear. I felt totally secure with them on.Ìý

Do they work? 

I tried these leggings out in a couple of different ways – I wore them on a fast-paced 5km run, on a walk, and while pottering around the house. I also added in a couple of squats for good measure. I tried to wear them on the heaviest days of my menstrual cycle, as they claim to be able to handle a moderate to heavy flow.Ìý

The leggings performed really well on my run. It was actually so liberating to go running on one of the heaviest days of my period without having to worry about pads or tampons! 

They stayed nice and secure throughout the run. I didn’t have any feelings of discomfort or wetness, and when I took them off, I was surprised to see that the gusset looked completely dry: you wouldn’t have been able to tell that I had just run 5km while bleeding pretty constantly.Ìý

My only criticism is that these leggings only have one pocket on one leg. I would’ve loved one more pocket on the other side, as it would’ve made it a bit easier to carry my phone, keys and glasses.

The leggings also held up well on my walk. Once again, it was very freeing being able to do this without having to think about pads or tampons. I also wore them around the house for a couple of hours with no issues.Ìý

You could certainly wear these out and about while running errands or doing grocery shopping, in the same way you might wear regular leggings.Ìý

Would I recommend them? 

Overall, yes. These leggings performed well, but they do come with a bit of a downside – you need to wash them every time you wear them.Ìý

If I’ve been wearing regular leggings while running errands or going for a walk, I won’t wash them until they’ve been used a couple of times. As the Modibodi leggings have absorbed blood, you’ll need to rinse them and pop them in the wash after each use.Ìý

When you factor in the time it takes for them to air dry (you shouldn’t put these in the dryer), you won’t be able to use them on every single day of your period, unless you buy multiple pairs.Ìý

If you’re keen to help out the environment by reducing your use of tampons and pads, you might be better off buying a couple of pairs of period underwear and wearing them with your usual activewear.Ìý 

The post Modibodi 7/8 Recycled Active Legging review appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Until now the period underwear market has mostly been dominated by specialist brands that are sold online, such as Modibodi, Thinx and Love Luna.Ìý

Now big-name brand Bonds has come to the party, hoping to replace your bathroom drawer of tampons and pads.

What are Bloody Comfy Period Undies?

Bonds Bloody Comfy Period Undies look like an ordinary pair of cotton underwear – each with the familiar ‘Bonds’ logo stamped on the waistband. The difference is that the underwear’s gusset has been designed with “innovative layering technology” – that is, an absorbent core covered in a latticed layer of fabric – which absorbs your period, wicking away most moisture and at least some odour.Ìý

They’re available in three levels of absorbency at three corresponding price points – ‘Heavy Flow’ ($29.95), which the company says will hold the same amount of flow as four tampons; “Moderate Flow’ ($24.95), which equates to three tampons; and ‘Light Flow” ($19.95), which holds as much liquid as two tampons.

Understandably, the company can’t make definite promises about which underwear style will work for you, or whether or not you’ll also have to wear tampons or pads at the same time for extra security. After all, every woman is different and so is her period. Bonds suggest first-time users “[try] the product at home first to see what routine works best for you.”

A growing market

Australian brand Modibodi claims to be one of the first period underwear brands on the market, launching in 2013. Since then several brands of period underwear have become available, all of which purport to be comfortable, leak-free and better for the environment than the 11,000 disposable menstrual products that the average woman is estimated to use in her lifetime.

Bonds is the first mainstream underwear brand to get in on the action. Their Bloody Comfy Period undies seem well made, robust and comfortable, and come in three shapes: a simple ‘Bikini’ style, the ‘Tanga’, which is high cut, and ‘Gee’, a g-string style that’s only offered in the ‘light flow’ version. They also come in a generous range of sizes – from 6 to 20.

Do they work?

In terms of leakage, yes.Ìý

I trialled two levels of absorbency – the “Heavy Flow” and “Moderate Flow” versions, on heavy- and medium-flow days of my period. I was relieved that I didn’t suffer from any back-of-the-jeans staining issues with either, even after wearing the robust ‘Heavy Flow’ version for a full day without changing them. They didn’t feel noticeably wet, although I could see a small amount of wetness on the top layer of the gusset when I went to the toilet.

I didn’t need to wear any other menstrual protection and I think they probably could have held even more than my heavy flow, judging by how ‘full’ they felt when I took them out of the washing machine.

But due to current restrictions I mostly wore them at home or on short walks to the shops and the park near my house. I’m not sure I’d want to wear them for a full day in the workplace without replacing them, even if I was confident they wouldn’t leak.Ìý

There is a very slight ‘rustling’ sound that can be heard when you apply pressure to the inner core – similar to the sound that you might hear while wearing a pad, which, as a tampon user, was not particularly welcome. And although the underwear were mostly odour-free, they weren’t entirely.

Are they convenient?

Before I trialled them, I assumed convenience would be these underwear’s biggest selling point. No more having to worry about tampons or pads! Just throw on a pair of undies and go.

Not exactly.

In reality, carrying around a few tampons at the bottom of your handbag isn’t a massive burden. Whereas carrying an extra pair of period underwear around with you in case you need to change them during the day, not to mention toting a used pair around with you, is neither convenient nor particularly glamorous.

Then there’s the washing factor. Unlike your ordinary knickers, you can’t exactly throw a used pair of period undies into your wash basket with the rest of the family’s dirty clothes and leave them sitting there until you do a load in three days’ time. Which means you have to put them through the wash every single day of your period (or hand wash or soak them in a bucket), which you might not feel like doing at the end of the day.

Would I recommend them?

Overall yes, with a few caveats. If you don’t like the idea of putting foreign bodies such as tampons into your body, you’re concerned about the environmental impact of disposable menstrual products, and you don’t mind dealing with a more rigorous washing schedule, then these underwear are worth trying out.Ìý 

But the level of protection they offer will vary from woman to woman, and may take a bit of trial and error – with the back-up of a few tampons or pads in the handbag – before you know whether they work for you.

The post Bonds Bloody Comfy Period Undies review appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• How we choose what we test
• How we test
• Test criteria explained

How we choose what we test

With such a huge range of products on the market, what makes us choose one sanitary pad product to test over another? 

Well, as with most of our product testing, our aim is to test the most brands on the market and to reflect what you’re likely to see in stores.

We check in-store to see what’s available and we survey manufacturers to find out about their range of products, and we use this information to put together a final list that goes to our buyers. They then head out to the retailers and purchase each product, just as a normal consumer would.Ìý

We do this so we can be sure they’re the same as any consumer would find them and not ‘tweaked’ in any way.

How we test

We send the sanitary pad products to a laboratory for testing.Ìý

We also calculate the value for money of each product by measuring how much each costs based on the pack size.

Absorbency score

Using a special dosing apparatus, each product is tested for its absorbency speed.Ìý

A specific amount of saline solution is dosed into the centre of the sanitary pad using the dosage pump. The amount of time it takes for the liquid to disappear is recorded and the process is repeated once more after waiting for three minutes.Ìý

The total time for both gushes to absorb is taken as the absorption speed.

Wet feeling (rewet) score

Five minutes after the last gush from the absorbency test, six pre-weighed dry filter papers are placed on the sanitary pad and held down for 30 seconds.Ìý

The filter paper is then removed and immediately weighed.Ìý

Ideally, the filter paper should remain relatively dry.

Velcro strength (stay in place) score

We measure the force required to pull the pad from a cotton surface.

We also look for any leakages during testing and note if a leak was observed. This isn’t scored.

Test criteria explained

The overall score is made up of:

• Absorbency (60%), 
• Wet feeling (20%) and 
• Velcro strength (20%).

The post How we test sanitary pads appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• Hormone-replacement therapy
• What about 'natural' hormones?
• Herbal remedies

The good news is that effective treatment is available, and though results may vary among women, a bit of trial and error in collaboration with your doctor will likely turn up the right medication to help you.

Hormone-replacement therapy

In 2002, a major American study involving hormone-replacement therapy – the (WHI) trial – was stopped early because researchers were concerned about the increased incidence of breast cancer, heart disease and blood clots among women taking the hormones.

The ensuing media frenzy prompted many women to abandon the treatment, instead putting up with the discomfort caused by menopause symptoms, or turning to alternatives.

However, when the WHI findings were reanalysed taking age into account, it was found that for the target market – women under 60 – the take-home message was that the benefits likely outweighed the risks.

Breast cancer

That HRT increases the risk of breast cancer isn’t denied. However, that increased risk is small in absolute terms. Analysis of the WHI study found that among women in their 50s who took HRT for the first time, there was no increase in the risk of getting breast cancer.

After more than five years, the risk appears to increase, and is comparable with the increased risk of that of women who:

• had their first pregnancy after the age of 35
• drink more than two alcoholic drinks a day
• are overweight (have a body mass index of 25-30)

Within five years of stopping HRT, the risk returns to normal levels.

Blood clots

There is concern about HRT and the increased risk of blood clots either in the lungs or presenting as deep vein thrombosis, especially among women who are obese or have other risk factors for clotting – something for which women should ideally be screened before commencing therapy.

Cardiovascular disease

For women in their 50s, HRT doesn’t appear to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, and may in fact reduce it. However, there’s evidence that if HRT is started when women are older and already have cardiovascular disease, it can increase the risk of cardiac events.

Reducing the risks

There are ways of reducing the risks of side-effects, including lowering HRT doses, using oestrogen-only therapy (only for women who’ve undergone hysterectomy) and starting HRT near menopause. There’s some evidence that using skin patches rather than tablets can also reduce the risk of clots.

Apart from reducing the severity of symptoms associated with menopause, the benefits of HRT include a reduced rate of fractures related to osteoporosis – although the risk returns to normal after HRT is stopped – and reduced rates of colorectal cancer.

What about ‘natural’ hormones?

Uncomfortable with taking so-called synthetic hormones in HRT, many women prefer the idea of ‘natural’ or bio-identical hormones. Some swear by them, finding they’re very effective at relieving menopause symptoms. A doctor tests your blood or saliva for hormone levels and tops them up to so-called natural levels by having a compounding pharmacist tailor-make a preparation for you.

They’re more expensive than HRT, partly because they’re not subsidised by the government. And some medical authorities, including the , warn against them.

The main risk with bio-identical hormones is that they’re not regulated in the same way as other hormonal treatments, and they could be ineffective – or worse, dangerous. One major concern is increased occurrences of uterine cancer, due to the ineffectiveness of progesterone in opposing the effects of oestrogen on the endometrium. Several such cases have been reported.

Legal loopholes mean they may also contain hormones that aren’t approved by the (TGA) for use in Australia. Critics also point out that just because the hormones come from natural sources such as yam or soy, by the time the active hormone is extracted it’s chemically no different from the equivalent so-called synthetic hormone in HRT, which also happens to be extracted from natural sources, including yam, soy or … horse urine. Yum!

Herbal remedies

We found more than 20 herbal remedies on the market that claim to relieve the symptoms of menopause. Following are some of the main ingredients and their likely effectiveness:

Black cohosh

This North American root and rhizome is the most well-researched herbal product on the market. However, the results of clinical trials are mixed, with some studies finding it’s better than a placebo and others finding that – while symptoms are indeed reduced – the effect isn’t much better than a placebo.

Two studies testing a preparation of St John’s wort combined with black cohosh found the treatment improved menopausal symptoms, with one study also reporting improvements in depression.

Soy isoflavone extracts

These came to prominence after it was observed that Asian women, who typically eat a lot of soy, don’t experience the same discomfort from menopausal symptoms as Western women. While it’s possible this has a cultural basis, or could have more to do with the relatively high vegetable/low meat intake of Asian women, soy’s mild oestrogenic properties could be at least partly responsible.

A review of studies of soy extracts found that about half had evidence they helped, and half didn’t. The differences in results could not be explained by the quality of studies, dosage or severity of symptoms. The contradictory evidence makes it difficult therefore to provide an overall conclusion.

It’s suggested that about one in three people respond better to these isoflavones than others, because they’re able to convert one of the isoflavones, daidzein (which is also in red clover extracts, below), into equol – a more potent oestrogenic substance.

Red clover isoflavones

Like soy, red clover is a legume rich in isoflavones. There is some evidence it works, but it’s not conclusive. While a few small studies – of questionable quality and/or funded by the manufacturer – concluded it was effective in reducing symptoms, a placebo was also found to be effective. An analysis of results pooled from all available studies found there was no difference between red clover supplements and a placebo.

Other herbs

Dong quai root, liquorice root, maca, evening primrose oil, Vitex agnus-castes (chaste tree), sage leaf, wild yam root (in tablets and topical creams) and ginseng are found in menopause herbal treatments, with a strong history of use in traditional medicine. However, good-quality scientific evidence for their effectiveness is lacking.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)

Clinical trials in China of Chinese herbal medicines have found them effective in reducing the symptoms of menopause. Women experience menopause differently and require different herbal combinations, so a qualified TCM practitioner assesses each woman and her symptom profile and prescribes particular herbs accordingly.

Because there’s no one-size-fits-all formulation, it’s difficult to test in the way Western clinical trials are conducted.

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