Your guide to light, medium and heavy period flows
Whether your period is light, heavy, or somewhere in between, understanding your flow can make all the difference. In this article we’ll go through different period flows and how you can stay comfortable and supported with our period panties, no matter your flow level.
Understanding different period flows
Period flows can vary widely and can even change from month to month. Understanding what each flow means, and what’s your typical flow is, can help you manage your period better and recognise any potential changes. A regular period flow is usually somewhere between 30–80 ml of blood per cycle, which equals about 2–5 tablespoons. But how you bleed is highly individual.
When it comes to period flows, we usually talk about light, medium and heavy flow. Let’s break them down together:
Light flow: Light period flows are often experienced at the beginning or end of the period, although some people go through entire menstruations with only light flow. Typically, they involve minimal bleeding – often needing only a panty liner or light pad as protection. Our period panties with Mini and Light absorbency are great for light flows.
Medium flow: Medium period flows are what most people consider a “normal” period. They often require changing traditional protection every few hours and generally lasts between 4–7 days. For this type of flow, our Medium and Mid-high absorbency period panties are perfect.
Heavy flow: A heavy period flow typically means needing to change traditional protection every 1–2 hours, and it may sometimes include blood clotting. Heavy periods can be uncomfortable and may lead to fatigue due to increased blood loss. Our period panties with High and Super absorbency are great for heavy bleeders.
It's also common to experience menstrual spotting, which refers to a light bleeding that typically occurs before or after a period. It’s usually much lighter than a usual flow and will appear as just a few drops or light streaks of blood. They are usually pink, brown or dark red, rather than the bright red colour of menstrual blood. Period panties with Mini and Light absorbency are great for feeling completely secure if you experience spotting.
What is a heavy period?
Having a heavy monthly bleeding is quite common and occurs among about 10–20% of women. It is defined as a regularly recurring bleeding that is heavier and/or longer lasting than a normal period with a total blood loss of over 80 ml in total. When using traditional period protection, heavy bleeders often need to change protection every 1–2 hours. However, period panties are a fantastic solution for heavy periods. All our panties can be used for up to 10 hours, depending on your flow, and our absorbency levels High and Super will absorb up to 4 and 5 tampons/pads – in other words, great for heavy menstruation.
Why is my period flow so heavy?
Heavy flows on your period can occur for several reasons, and having a heavy period can be completely normal for some, and not so normal for others. As with a lot of things regarding your period, genetics play a big role. If your period comes regularly and you don’t experience extreme menstrual cramps or bleed for more than 7 days, it’s likely you’re just a heavy bleeder genetically. But if your heavy periods have come suddenly or are causing discomfort or interfering with daily life, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and explore possible treatment options.
Keep track of your flow
To know what’s normal for you – it can be a good idea to keep track of your flow and cycle. Tracking your flow can be as easy as notes on your phone or in your calendar, or in a smart period tracking app. It helps you understand the length and regularity of your cycle. If you log symptoms like cramps, mood changes or fatigue it can also help you see patterns over time which gives you a better understanding of how you react and feel at different times of the month. It also helps you detect abnormalities easier, like unregularly heavy flows, missed periods, or unusual pain that may require a visit to the doctor.
Our bestsellers
Period panties for heavy bleeding
Our most extensive protection are our period panties with High and Super absorbency. They are designed for heavy periods and can hold up to 4 or 5 tampons/pads before having to change. Our panties with High absorbency come in our fits hiphugger, boxer and high waist. And our Super absorbency come in a boxer fit with an extended gusset, and are also great for sleeping.
Period panties for medium bleeding
For average bleeders, or for steady days in the middle of your period, our period panties with Medium and Mid-high absorbency are great. They will hold up to 2 or 3 tampons/pads before having to change. You’ll find them in our fits hiphugger, high waist and bikini, with many different colours to choose from. And don’t forget our period panties for teens that come in Mid-high and Super absorbency.
Period panties for light bleeding
Our lightest protection are our period panties with Mini or Light absorbency. They will hold up to ½ or 1 tampons/pads, and great for lighter days at the beginning or end of your period instead of wearing a panty liner. Available in our fits thong, brazilian and boxer.
