To wear or not to wear panty liners? A gynaecologist answers this pertinent question

Panty liners have been around for quite a while. However, there’s still a large section of people who wonder whether they’re of actual use or not. If you identify with this section of people, we have an answer for you.

We reached out to Dr Uma Vaidyanathan, senior consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh to know whether this feminine hygiene product serves any practical purpose or not. 

Let’s begin by understanding what a panty liner is
Dr Uma says, “A panty liner is a thin but absorbent piece of material worn inside the underwear. Think of a thinner and smaller version of a sanitary pad.” She adds: “You do not need to use pantyliners daily but you can use them whenever the need arises.”

Believe it or not, panty liners do have some benefits to offer you. Here are some, as suggested by Dr Uma: 

1. Keeps you fresh
One of the key benefits of panty liners is that they keep moisture at bay down there. Keeping your lady bits free of excess moisture leaves you feeling fresh all-day long without any discomfort. The breathable liners ensure that your vagina can breathe properly.

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2. Absorbs sweat and discharge
“Panty liners are designed to act as a barrier against daily vaginal discharge or perspiration,” says Dr Uma. If you tend to sweat excessively post workout, pantyliners can save you from that annoying wetness between your legs. Likewise, it can also help absorb the excess vaginal discharge during ovulation.

3. Can help with the unexpected monthly visit
You might have forgotten to track your period but using panty liners can not only save you from the leakages but also from the embarrassment of staining.

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4. Comes handy during the last days of your period
Even after your period is over, it is not actually over. You might notice some spotting and light flow even after the five days are over. In such a situation, panty liners can help.

5. Can help with postpartum flow
If you have just given birth to your baby, you must be experiencing some discharge. This is because your uterus is healing and flushing out excess fluid. Panty liners can come to your aid during this time.

So, the verdict?
Dr Uma suggests, “You can wear pantyl iners daily but you should be changing them as and when you start feeling moist down there.”

While panty liners are beneficial and you should definitely wear them when you feel the need, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Before purchasing them, make sure the material of the pantyliner is breathable.
• Never use scented ones because they can mess up with the pH balance of your vagina.
• If you tend to wear panty liners regularly, change them twice a day at least