Modibodi, Thinx, Ooia, Kora Mikino, The Female Company, Sisters Republic or Pourprées? There’s a lot happening in the menstrual products market right now. Choosing the right brand isn’t easy. It’s time for a period panties comparison.
A few years ago, Thinx was the only pioneer on the period pants market, but now German companies are catching up. In this article, I compare the period underwear brands I’ve personally tested. The article is updated regularly.
In my circle of friends, I’m the one who tries out every menstrual product and ends up giving the recommendations. That’s why I often get direct questions like “Is Modibodi good for someone like me with a very heavy period?”, “Don’t period panties feel like wearing a diaper?” and “Are period panties really safe?” or “Which one is the best?” And as so often, my answer is: it depends.
So it was high time I put my experience with period underwear into a clear comparison: Modibodi, Thinx, Ooia, Kora Mikino, Sisters Republic, and Pourprées in review.
Content
Quick overview
| Brand | Absorbency | Made in | Materials | Care | Vegan? | Price Range (€) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Modibodi | Up to 50 ml (~10 tampons) | Designed in Australia, made in China | Bamboo, merino wool, microfiber | Cold rinse, machine wash, air dry | Some models | ~25–35 | High absorbency, variety of models |
| Kora Mikino | Up to 40 ml (~8 tampons) | Germany and Lithuania | Tencel, cotton, biodegradable TPU | 40°C machine wash, air dry | Yes | ~30–38 | Sustainable production, gentle materials |
| Thinx | Up to 5 tampons | Sri Lanka | Cotton, elastane, polyester | Cold rinse, machine wash, air dry | Some models | ~30–40 | Established brand with broad international base |
| The Female Company | Up to 5 tampons | Portugal | Organic cotton, biopolymer membrane | 40°C machine wash, no fabric softener | Yes | ~35–45 | Eco-friendly, plastic-free, transparent |
| Ooia | Up to 30 ml (~3 tampons) | Portugal, Lithuania | Organic cotton, Tencel, merino wool (some) | Cold rinse, 40°C wash, air dry | Mostly (except wool models) | ~35–45 | Style and comfort, softest feel |
| Sisters Republic | Light to heavy (Super ≈ 4-5 tampons) | Tunisia | Cotton, elastane, waterproof membrane | 30°C–40°C wash, air dry | Yes | ~30–35 | Playful designs, good fit |
| Pourprées | Up to 30 ml (~4 tampons) | France | Organic cotton | 30°C–40°C wash, air dry | Yes | ~30–40 | French design, eco-conscious materials |
Period Underwear Compared: Price
There isn’t a huge price difference between period panties. The biggest difference is shipping — Thinx ships from the US and might get held up at customs. Thinx, Modibodi, Kora Mikino, The Female Company, and Ooia offer free shipping or bundle deals once a certain purchase amount is reached. Below are the lowest prices per panty. Note that high-waist cuts, lace styles, or high-absorbency options are typically more expensive. The listed price is the “starting price”.
- Modibodi: €21, free shipping from the UK
- Kora Mikino: €33 + €5 shipping
- Thinx: €30–35 + €8.25 shipping
- The Female Company: €39.90 + €3.51 shipping
- Ooia: €37.95 + €5 shipping
- Sisters Republic: from €32 + €6.10 shipping
- Pourprées: €34–44 + €2.80 shipping
Where Is the Period Underwear Made?
Especially in times when we think more about sustainability, where clothing and products are made becomes more important. The rule: the more local, the better. So let’s take a look at production locations in this comparison.
Modibodi
Modibodi is manufactured in China, but claims to follow sustainable and fair working conditions with certified Oeko Tex partners. Still, if there are local alternatives, these clearly reduce the environmental footprint.
Kora Mikino
Kora Mikino is produced in southern Germany, in the same factory as the sustainable brand erlich Textil. You can’t get more local than that.
Thinx
Thinx states that it manufactures under fair and sustainable conditions in Sri Lanka, which means its products travel quite a long distance.
The Female Company
Their products are made in Germany, specifically southern Germany, and elsewhere in the EU.
Ooia
Ooia’s panties are made in Portugal.
Sisters Republic
Made in Morocco, with fabrics and lace sourced from Turkey, Portugal, and Spain.
Pourprées
As the name suggests, Pourprées is made in France. From weaving the organic cotton to sewing, everything is done in France.
Caring for Period Underwear
After use is before use. When Thinx first hit the market, I was thrilled — except for one thing: the care instructions required cold hand-wash only. I don’t mind hand-washing the occasional garment, but it bothered me that I couldn’t just throw menstrual underwear into the machine. I did it anyway — and they’ve survived, though the antibacterial coating has worn off on my oldest pairs, making them smell on hot days after extended wear.
Care is a major factor in comparing period underwear, so let’s take a look at how user-friendly each brand is.
Modibodi
Should be rinsed after wearing and then cold washed in the washing machine.
Kora Mikino
Like Ooia, can be washed at 40°C in the machine.
Thinx
Originally required cold hand-washing only. Now machine washing is allowed. Either the panties have been improved, or it just sounds better on the website.
The Female Company
Wash at 40°C after rinsing. They also offer a special delicate detergent for their panties — a unique offering.
Ooia
Machine washable at 40°C.
Sisters Republic
Rinse cold after use, then wash at 40°C. For lace or frilly styles, a laundry bag is recommended.
Pourprées
Rinse in cold water after use, then wash at 40°C in the machine.
Period Underwear Compared: Material
Since Thinx launched, much has changed. Initially, little thought was given to materials. Early Thinx used only synthetic fabrics and included nanosilver. Over time, demand grew for cotton-based alternatives. So how do other brands compare today? Let’s break down the materials.
Modibodi
Modibodi offers endless options: various styles, colors, fabrics, and absorbency levels — from light bladder leaks to heavy flow days. Materials include GOTS-certified organic cotton, Merino wool for activewear, recycled synthetics, and microfiber nylon for their seamfree range (which is ultra-thin, breathable, and quick-drying).
Kora Mikino
Made from two layers and can hold up to 30ml (roughly three tampons’ worth). The inner layer is MicroModal, derived from beech trees in sustainably managed European forests. It’s silky-soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking.
Thinx
Available in both synthetic and cotton versions. They consist of four layers: a breathable cotton layer, an odor-controlling layer with nanosilver, a super-absorbent core, and a leakproof outer layer.
The Female Company
95% organic cotton and 5% elastane — fully vegan (no animal-based materials). The absorbent core has four layers, including polyester mesh with silver chloride (not nanoparticles), terry cloth, and a leakproof polyurethane layer.
Ooia
Three layers: the top layer is Merino wool (very soft), the absorbent middle layer contains silver (but no nanosilver), and the outer membrane is leakproof but breathable.
Sisters Republic
Three layers: a super-absorbent layer, a waterproof layer, and a breathable fabric blend of nylon and elastane.
Pourprées
Three layers, with different absorbency levels depending on the model. The top layer is 97% organic cotton and 3% elastane. The lace is French lace. Absorbent layers vary:
- Dahlia & Rose: 46% viscose (eucalyptus fiber), 48% polyester, 6% polyurethane
- Cattleya: 41% viscose, 51% polyester, 8% polyurethane
- Lys: 95% organic cotton, 5% elastane. The absorbent layer is 64% Lyocell, 33% polyester, 3% polyurethane.
Pourprées does not use silver nanoparticles or harmful additives like copper, silver, or zeolite.
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Absorbency
This is arguably the most important question when comparing period underwear: how much can they hold? Can they replace tampons or pads? The honest answer: it depends. If you have a heavy period, you may want to start by using them as backup or monitor performance closely on your heaviest days. My period is medium, so I can fully replace other products with Thinx, Ooia, and Kora Mikino.
Modibodi
Offers absorbency levels from light leaks to the equivalent of 10 tampons. Their “Maximum Absorbency” line holds up to 100ml and can be worn for 24 hours.
Kora Mikino
Holds up to 3 tampons’ worth, depending on the model.
Thinx
Up to 4 tampons’ worth, depending on the model.
The Female Company
Absorbs up to 3 tampons, 2 menstrual cups, or 4 pads.
Thinx
Thinx offers various models, and their absorbency varies accordingly. The strongest model can absorb the equivalent of 5 tampons, which is ideal for medium to heavy days. However, for particularly heavy periods, I would recommend using them either as a backup or changing them more frequently.
The Female Company
According to the manufacturer, their Period Panty absorbs the equivalent of 5 tampons. They also offer models that hold less, such as 3 tampons. The exact absorbency is clearly listed in the product descriptions, which I find very helpful. In everyday use, I find them very comfortable and absorbent.
Ooia
Ooia doesn’t communicate the absorbency in “tampon equivalents” as prominently as other brands but rather in milliliters. Their strongest panty can absorb up to 30 ml, which is roughly equivalent to 3 regular tampons. From personal experience, they last me through a full workday without leakage.
Sisters Republic
Sisters Republic also categorizes their panties by absorbency level—light, medium, and heavy flow—making it easier to find the right model. For strong periods, their “Super” version is suitable and comparable to other highly absorbent models on the market.
Pourprées
Pourprées offer different models with varying absorbency levels. The “Dahlia” and “Rose” models can hold up to 4 tampons’ worth of menstrual blood, while the “Cattleya” is designed for lighter flow. I especially appreciate that they specify the absorption capacity in ml (up to 30 ml), which makes comparisons easier.
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Comfort of Period Underwear
Beyond absorbency, comfort is crucial, especially during menstruation when many of us already feel less than our best. If something shifts, pinches, or doesn’t fit properly, it can spell disaster.
Modibodi
I’ve tested nearly the entire Modibodi range: bikini briefs, swimsuits, active briefs, and the Seamfree model. Each has its merits, and I appreciate their distinct differences. The swimsuit and bikini briefs not only offer excellent comfort but also open up new possibilities for swimming during my period. The Seamfree is truly remarkable—ultra-thin yet capable of absorbing up to 3 tampons’ worth. Initially, it seemed too small, and I feared tearing it while putting it on, as it barely stretched over my thighs.
However, once I managed to get it on, it became increasingly comfortable by the minute. It’s now my go-to model for travel, as it dries faster than any other. The Active Brief provided the highest comfort level for me, thanks to its soft merino wool, offering a pleasant feel against the skin. It’s especially great for sports: everything stays in place without causing overheating. I particularly love the waistband featuring the Modibodi logo.
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Kora Mikino
Kora Mikino has become my favorite. I’ve used them for eight cycles now. The fit is perfect for me, and they feature the softest outer material: extra-cozy MicroModal. The layers aren’t too thick; however, one layer does make a slight rustling sound. But don’t worry—it’s not like having a plastic bag between your legs and is definitely not audible to others. The cut suits me best, especially under jeans. Nothing pinches or shifts; everything stays where it should. I’m in love!
Thinx
I adore Thinx. They feel somewhat like well-fitting bikini briefs, especially the synthetic ones. Thinx has expanded its line with cotton panties, which also boast a perfect fit. They’ve recently introduced a particularly breathable model, though I haven’t tested it yet. Both the synthetic and cotton panties have impressed me, but on especially hot summer days, I preferred the cotton model. Let’s be honest: four-layer underwear can make a difference in the heat, but it’s still within a tolerable range.
The Female Company
The “Slip” model feels incredibly soft against the skin, the organic cotton couldn’t be gentler, and the elastic waistband doesn’t press or pinch anywhere. I particularly liked the high-cut leg openings and the high back cut, even in the Slip model. The High Waist version must be truly high-waisted. The four layers are well-constructed and don’t give a diaper-like feeling. Even under tight jeans, the pants are comfortable to wear.
Ooia
Ooia has accompanied me through three cycles now. They fit comfortably and are breathable, but compared to Thinx, they feel quite bulky. I measured myself carefully before ordering, but the cuts are so large that I should have ordered at least one size smaller. So now I mainly wear them on relaxed days at home or at night. I wouldn’t find them particularly comfortable under tight jeans. That said, women with heavy menstruation might feel especially secure, as the absorbent and moisture-proof layer extends up to the waistband, preventing leaks even when lying down.
Update: Ooia has evolved since I first ordered them. The new models are significantly “slimmer” and no longer feel as bulky. I especially like wearing Ooia on days when I prefer cozy clothing. Compared to other models, they remain the bulkiest, but it’s important to have options that cater to different preferences.
Sisters Republic
Comfort is the heart of any test because what good is high-tech material and a cute cut if you don’t feel comfortable? I tested three models and found that all fit well, nothing shifted, and I never felt like there might be a leak. The “Tonight” model pressed slightly on my hips—not uncomfortable, but not my favorite look in the mirror. For my body type, panties that are cut higher or lower are more flattering. That’s purely a matter of taste. What sets Sisters Republic apart are the playful, unique models with ruffles and glitter trim. They provide a little extra boost when you’re feeling “meh” during your period. Starting the day with a smile makes a difference.
Pourprées
First off: I usually wear underwear that’s more minimal—nothing too high-cut, often thongs or sporty styles. When I unpacked the Pourprées Cattleya from its cute gift bag, I had doubts: it’s very high-cut. Also, since I rarely wear lace underwear, I was initially skeptical. But once I put them on, I was surprised: incredibly comfortable and unexpectedly sexy for period panties. They do peek out above my jeans, but hey, I don’t wear crop tops anyway. 😉
Update: I’ve now tested the Rose and Dahlia models. Rose is significantly more minimal than Cattleya and Dahlia. Nonetheless, the fit isn’t too tight. Nothing pinches or shifts; I feel just as secure as with Cattleya. Like Cattleya, Rose is a successful combination of lace and cotton. The new Dahlia model stands out with its lace (pun intended). Compared to the more “mature” Rose and Cattleya, it’s a bit more playful and youthful.
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Period Underwear Comparison: Models and Colors
Modibodi
Among all the brands presented, Modibodi has by far the largest range. Only Thinx comes close. Modibodi offers not only menstrual and leakproof underwear but also has a dedicated label for teenagers called RED. Additionally, there are products for men available in the Australian market, focusing on leakproof solutions for light incontinence or post-surgery situations when reaching the toilet in time is challenging.
Kora Mikino
So far, there are two models, exclusively in black. However, the company is still very new, and more are sure to follow.
Update: That’s exactly what happened. There are now numerous additional models and colors, such as a gentle red, the lace model Diane, and the minimal-cut Selma.
Thinx
Thinx offers the largest product range: numerous cuts, including thongs, and four different colors—black, beige, bright blue, and powder. There are also various materials: synthetic, cotton, and extra breathable options.
The Female Company
Currently, there are two models: Slip with a high-cut leg and the High Waist. They are available in black and gray.
Ooia
Currently, there are three models in black and beige. However, Ooia has already announced more models.
Update: Much has changed here as well. Ooia has released a sporty model with a glittery waistband in blue-silver. There’s also swimwear, models for teens, and options for bladder weakness.
Sisters Republic
There are a total of eight models in three absorbency levels and various colors. Additionally, there’s swimwear and models for teenagers. They’ve thought of everyone.
Pourprées
Pourprées offers four models, ranging from the feminine, minimal-cut Rose with lace to the high-cut Cattleya and the new Dahlia, both also featuring lace. Between Rose and the two high-cut models is the limited edition Lys. So far, they are only available in black.
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Conclusion: Period Underwear in Comparison
All the models I tested do their job and have made my life easier and better. For those living in Germany, it’s more sustainable to go with Kora Mikino, Ooia, The Female Company, or Pourprées, as they are produced in Europe — and in the case of Kora Mikino and The Female Company, even in Germany. This means significantly shorter delivery routes compared to Thinx, whose production site is in Sri Lanka and which ships from the USA. New to this comparison is Modibodi. The Australian label manufactures in China but ships from the UK.
Speaking of sustainability:
Einhorn has put together a very nice overview of the ecological footprint of menstrual products. Compared are conventional tampons, pads, organic tampons and pads, menstrual cups, and period underwear. The clear winner: period panties (closely followed by menstrual cups).
Price
The most frequently mentioned criticism of period pants is the price. Yes, the initial purchase isn’t cheap, but you can get through a cycle with just 2–3 period panties — provided you’re okay with handwashing in between. Let’s say you buy 2 pairs and compare that to a 56-pack of regular tampons, assuming an average use of 190 tampons per year — the cost of 2 panties would break even after about 4 years. No question, tampons are cheaper, as are menstrual cups. So it remains a matter of what’s most comfortable for you.
If we compare period underwear, price-wise, there’s not much difference between the brands. There are cheaper options on the market — Primark, for example, now offers them too. But it’s worth taking a closer look at the materials used.
For me, period pants are the ultimate game changer, and I no longer use any other product, especially since Modibodi’s entry-level price is 21 euros, significantly below that of period panties produced in Europe. It’s worth checking out The Female Company and Sisters Republic, as they offer great bundle deals that let you save a lot. The latter even has special offers for students, by the way.
That leaves the question: Which brand should I buy?
Price-wise, they’re all quite similar. They’re all more sustainable than other menstrual products, though locally/regionally made products should be preferred. Those with very heavy bleeding will likely be happiest with the Maximum Absorbency products from Modibodi and Thinx, as the European models tend to max out at the equivalent of 3–4 tampons. That said, it’s worth noting that Pourprées now has a model called Dahlia, which is suitable for heavy bleeding and postpartum use.
Wearing Comfort
So the deciding factor is comfort. For my body type, Kora Mikino fits best; when it comes to feeling sexy, Pourprées is my thing. For sports activities, I go for the Modibodi Active Brief or the high-waisted panty from The Female Company. On days when I want to feel a little “extra,” I reach for Sisters Republic. But as you can tell, this is all very personal preference. So the rule is: try it out! Because when it comes to protection and peace of mind, you know your body and your period best. Start slowly and have a backup ready until you feel secure with this kind of almost free-bleeding.