Our experts recommend panties from The Period Company and Goat Union.
Medically reviewed by Alyssa Dweck, M.D.
Gynecologist
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Whether you struggle with bladder leakage—more than 60 percent of women in the United States do, according to a 2022 study—or heavy periods that tend to bleed through your pants if your pad or tampon reaches its limit, leak-proof underwear can provide an extra layer of protection.
Regardless of how many menstrual cycles you’ve had in your life, period leaks can happen at any time, especially if you have a heavy or irregular flow. Leak-proof underwear can protect your clothes against spills from your bodily fluids to keep you dry. Plus, they can also fight odor associated with menstruation or urinary incontinence to help you stay fresh.
Best Leakproof Underwear
In addition to menstruation and urinary incontinence, leak-proof underwear is also a great for maternity and postpartum care. Unlike disposable pads and tampons, which can be wasteful and costly, many leak-proof panties are machine-washable, budget-friendly, and made with moisture-wicking, breathable materials. Whether you’re into high-waisted seamless underwear, boyshorts, or thongs, there’s a variety of style options to choose from that will keep you comfy and leak-free all day long.
What to consider
Here are a few important factors to keep in mind when shopping for the best pair of leak-proof underwear:
Size/Fit
“Fit is important,” explains gynecologist Alyssa Dweck, MD. “Most people don’t want anything bulky because that can be uncomfortable or seen through their outerwear.” So, you want to make sure your underwear is the right size and fits snugly without being too tight or loose, especially along the crotch and waistband areas. Underwear that is too tight can cause irritation, rashes, and infections, while panties that are looser may not provide adequate support and leak-proof protection.
Absorbency
Absorbency will vary depending on the brand and style of your leak-proof underwear. For example, if you’re looking for a pair with ultra heavy absorption, a thong or g-string probably isn’t going to be your first choice. “The nature of people’s flow is going to make a big difference as well,” says Dr. Dweck.
Fabrics like nylon, polyester, and wool are quick-drying and moisture-wicking, which is why you’ll often see them as an outer layer for the leak-proof panties on this list. However, some of these materials tend to be less breathable than cotton, which is a highly absorbent fabric that’s great for heavy leakages or sweat during physical activity.
If you're wondering how leak-proof underwear works, here's a crash course. “Essentially, they have multi-technical layers that perform a couple of purposes: absorb whatever fluid is of concern, wick it away from the skin so that irritation isn’t caused, and hold enough content so that it doesn’t have to be changed on a very frequent basis,” says Dr. Dweck. They're made in a way that absorbs period blood or any other leak into the fabric while still making you feel dry, adds triple-board certified ob-gyn Anna Cabeca, DO.
Material
Our experts recommend underwear made from cotton, bamboo, and tencel, since they are all breathable and naturally odor-resistant. If you’re in need of more serious odor-control technology, you’ll want to look for leak-proof underwear that’s specially made with antimicrobial properties to help fend off stink-causing bacteria. You can usually tell in the product's description, like the Knix pair on the list below, which is made with the brand's "Fresh Fix Technology."
Synthetic materials like nylon and spandex provide optimal stretchiness so your underwear can conform to the shape of your body and easily move with you throughout the day. The gusset or built-in crotch lining, however, should be made with cotton or a moisture-wicking material so that the skin is protected, says Dweck.
For those with sensitive skin, “make sure it is made with organic hypo-allergenic material to avoid any allergic reactions,” says Cabeca. But, if you’re still unsure which material is right for you, she advises to try a few of them out until you find the one that makes you feel the most comfortable.
How we chose
Women’s Health editors researched the most popular, bestselling, and top-rated leak-proof underwear across Amazon and other major retailers. To build our list, we consulted two gynecologists and evaluated over 15 leak-proof underwear to narrow down the best options for every circ*mstance, from menstruation to urinary incontinence, and for every budget and lifestyle.
Below, shop our guide on the best pairs of leak-proof underwear, tested by experts in 2024.
Pros
Very absorbent- Machine-washable
- Great for workouts
Cons
- Minimal plus-size options
After spending months testing over 15 pairs of leakproof underwear, we gave this high-waisted pair from The Period Company our top spot because it has a high volume capacity, is comfy to wear even for extended periods of time, and is designed with sustainability practices in mind.
The underwear can absorb up to 10 tampons worth of liquid and can last up to 14 hours a day, so you don’t have to worry about being near a bathroom to constantly change your underwear or check for leaks. It’s made with high-quality, super stretchy spandex and nylon fabric that moves with you while you’re at the gym or going for a run, and it has an organic cotton crotch lining for optimal breathability.
Our testers used this product for primary period and overnight protection, bladder leaks, postpartum care, and everyday wear, and there was no report of leaks. They rave about its high absorbency and long-lasting protection.
This underwear is also the most affordable pair on this list, without compromising on quality, performance, and comfort. Plus, for those who are eco-conscious, it comes in recyclable and compostable packaging. One thing to keep in mind is that this pair runs slightly large, though, so consider sizing down if you want an extra snug fit.
Read more: Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear
| Sizes | XS-2X |
|---|---|
| Fit | High-waisted |
| Absorbency | 8-10 tampons or 5 pads |
| Materials | Organic cotton, polyester, nylon, spandex |
Pros
- Wide range of sizes
- Full-coverage
- Super leak-proof
Cons
- Only one color option
When it comes to comfort and leak protection, this pair from Goat Union excels at both. Our team of anonymous testers called out its excellent absorbency, quality construction, and true-to-size fit, which features an inner cotton layer and an outer moisture-wicking bamboo viscose layer that’s ideal for people with sensitive skin.
The wide front to rear extension helps keep you dry and leak-free throughout the day (and night!), while the sleek, high-waisted band sits comfortably without digging into your skin or causing irritation. Plus, it’s machine-washable and OEKO-TEX-certified, so you don’t have to worry about coming into contact with any harmful chemicals.
| Sizes | XS-6X |
|---|---|
| Fit | High-waisted |
| Absorbency | 3-4 tampons |
| Materials | Viscose made from bamboo, cotton, polyester, nylon |
Pros
- Made with odor-control and antimicrobial technology
- Great sizing options
- Sleek under clothes
Cons
- Limited color choices
People looking for a pair of leak-proof underwear that’s seamless and odor fighting will like this pick. It has four absorbent layers that wick moisture away, and antimicrobial properties that prevent odor-causing bacteria from forming. Made without harmful chemicals and PFAs, this pair also features a two-millimeter-thick gusset that provides reliable leak-proof protection without sagging or being bulky.
We particularly liked its quality, elasticity, and large surface area of absorption built into the underwear. The underwear is also made with silky smooth fabric and a seamless design that pairs easily with leggings and yoga pants. However, we found that for some, the waistband may sit a little too snug.
| Sizes | XXS-6X |
|---|---|
| Fit | Mid-rise |
| Absorbency | 4 tampons |
| Materials | Nylon, spandex |
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Pros
- Seamless design
- Quick absorption
- Can buy packs of two or six
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy leaks
Some thongs have a bad rap for being uncomfortable, but we found that this pair from Shero is incredibly soft and sleek. Plus, its fast-absorbing fabric uses a unique blend of recycled coffee grounds and bamboo charcoal to inhibit unwanted odors while keeping you dry and cool.
Though not ideal for heavy flows and severe incontinence, this leak-proof thong is great for light bladder leakage and works as an excellent alternative to thin pads and panty liners. Plus, it has a seamless silhouette that gives you zero VPL (visible panty lines).
We particularly like the price point of this underwear, and found that it provides a better value than most other leak-proof thongs, thanks to its quality build and comfy fit.
Read more: Best Period Panties
| Sizes | XS-2X |
|---|---|
| Fit | Mid-rise |
| Absorbency | 1 tampon |
| Materials | Nylon, polyester, spandex |
Pros
- Great for heavy leakage
- Odor-resistant
- Stylish design
Cons
- Most expensive option, but holds the most ounces
Thinx has built a cult-following both IRL and on social media, with many people turning to the brand for its period, incontinence, and postpartum needs. Thinx's Hiphugger is a great buy for those looking for extra high absorbency.
It can absorb up to 12 tampons worth of liquid—more than any other pair on this list, and lasts up to 12 hours each day. Plus, it’s made with moisture-wicking polyamide and polyester fabrics that help keep you dry. The panty is built with odor-control technology that reduces unwanted smells, all while feeling cool and silky smooth to the touch.
In addition to odor control, its no-dig waistband features a stylish silhouette with lace and mesh details that some editors found to be super comfortable. One tester said the Hiphugger made her feel confident without fear of embarrassing accidents. Just be advised that this does run a bit small, so you may have to size up for the best fit.
| Sizes | XS-4X |
|---|---|
| Fit | Mid-rise |
| Absorbency | 12 tampons |
| Materials | Polyamide, elastane, polyester |
Pros
- Great for sensitive skin
- Lightweight
- Good absorbency
Cons
- May ride up with movement
Saalt is known for making some of the thinnest underwear on the market while still being completely leak-proof and free of toxic chemicals like PFAs. This specific pair of boyshorts is made with ultra-soft natural fibers derived from renewable beech wood. It has an extended gusset for overnight protection and a heavy absorbency that easily holds up to four tampons worth of liquid.
We found that this underwear was exceptionally breathable, stretchy, and smooth. One of our editors enjoys using this panty for sleeping or lounging around the house. Though it’s the most expensive underwear on this list, we found it worth the investment, especially if you’re underwear of choice is usually boyshorts.
| Sizes | XXS-4X |
|---|---|
| Fit | Mid-rise |
| Absorbency | 4 tampons or 3 pads |
| Materials | Tencel modal, recycled polyester, elastane |
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Pros
- 13 color options
- Machine-washable and dryable
- Sleek under clothes
Cons
- No returns, but can be exchanged for another size or style
This bestselling, high-waisted panty features a triple-layer fabric that ensures you stay protected, dry, and fresh all day long. Even better, it has an extended nine-inch-long gusset that absorbs and locks in liquid, and a no-show silhouette that doesn’t roll down while you move. Plus, it works wonders at keeping sweat stains away.
We specifically liked that this pair comes in 13 different color choices and found that it's super comfy for everyday use, with one tester mentioning that it felt “like a second skin.” The fabric is designed to be snug at first, but it quickly relaxes and conforms to your body once washed and worn. If you’re in between sizes, Knix recommends sizing up.
| Sizes | XS-4XL |
|---|---|
| Fit | High-waisted |
| Absorbency | 4 super tampons or 2 regular pads |
| Materials | Nylon, modal, spandex, seaweed |
Meet the experts
- Alyssa Dweck, MD, is a New York-based gynecologist and co-author of The Complete A to Z for Your V.
- Anna Cabeca, DO, is a triple-board certified obstetrician gynecologist based in Dallas, TX, and the bestselling author of The Hormone Fix and MenuPause.
Shop more underwear we love
Best Period Panties | Postpartum Underwear | Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear | Best Breathable Underwear | Best Seamless Underwear | Best Cotton Underwear
Safire R. Sostre
Freelance Writer
Safire R. Sostre (she/they) is a writer based in New York City. Their work has been published in Essence, BUST, and Womanly Magazine. When she is not writing, she enjoys crocheting, watching anime and romantic dramas, and daydreaming.
Medically reviewed byAlyssa Dweck, M.D.
Gynecologist
Alyssa Dweck, MD, MS, FACOG, specializes in gynecology, gynecologic surgery, and female sexual health. She is based in Westchester, New York.
