Period Pants

[MetallicMushroom]

My period has decided to start again after around 7 years of nothing.

I used tampons and pads previously but would prefer something more sustainable and less u comfortable. After such a long time I don't know whether to expect the same pattern as before (short periods of heavy bleeding).

Any recommendations for period pants that aren't too expensive and can cope with heavy flow?

I'm fat and would prefer full briefs.

Also looking at using a period tracking app if anyone can suggest a decent one.

Primark pants

Clue app

Modi bodi

M&S - I’m a fan of a good old knicker and they seem fairly bulletproof - no leaks

Another vote for the M&S ones. I got the ones for heavy flow and they’re a nice full brief and really comfy. I basically live in them now thanks to peri-menopause screwing up my cycles so I always need some sort of protection.

They did have a really weirdly strong chemical smell when they arrived though but they were all fine after being washed. I don’t know if that’s normal for them or if I just got a weird batch but absolutely no issues since then.

Primark ones

Why have your periods started again after a seven year break? Are you pre or post menopausal?

I'm 37.

I had no period whilst I was using contraception (implant then depo injection). I came off contraception about 4+ years ago and it never returned until now.

I wear the M&S ones all the time as I’m peri menopausal and never really know when I’m going to have some spotting or a dribble of wee

After 7 years that must feel very strange, hope your body settles into a comfortable pattern quickly.
For period pants with heavy flow at a budget-friendly price, a few that come up consistently in plus size communities:
Modibodi — wide size range, reliable for heavy flow, full brief styles available. Often have sales worth waiting for.
Knix — very popular for fuller figures, great coverage, holds up well for heavy days.
Thinx — do a full brief style, widely available, good for heavy flow. Check their sale section.
Sainsbury's / M&S own brand — surprisingly decent and very affordable if you're in the UK, worth trying before investing in pricier brands.
General tip — buy one or two pairs from different brands before committing to a full set. Sizing and absorbency vary more than you'd expect.
For the tracking app — given you've been away from periods for 7 years and don't know what to expect, I'd really recommend CycleGuide. What makes it particularly useful for your situation is that it doesn't just track dates — it actually explains what's happening in your body at each phase of your cycle. Given how long it's been, having something that educates you alongside tracking feels more valuable than a basic calendar app. It learns your personal pattern over time too, so irregular cycles aren't a problem.
Hope everything settles down smoothly for you! 🌸