Frequently asked questions about dancing and menstruating

UNDERWEAR & AESTHETICS

Dance teachers ask dance students to not wear underwear or panties under leotards because dancing is all about aesthetics. Underwear that can be seen distracts from the aesthetics of the movement being created.

Another reason is because underwear can be distracting to the dancer. Leotards and tights are tight and this can lead to uncomfortable underwear bunching up the crotch, or if the underwear is old it can start to slide pulling down on leotards or tights. If the underwear is too tight, or pulled up to high the wearer can constantly be trying to pick an uncomfortable wedgie from their bum.

MENSTRUATING

A lot of dancers find it most convenient and comfortable to wear a tampon. Some girls opt to wear a thin pad with seamless, invisible panties. Wearing a pad is perfectly fine, just make sure to choose one with a high absorbency level.

PERIOD UNDERWEAR
You could also go for high-cut period underwear that matches your ballet tights.
Leak proof underwear is available in many styles including Bikini and Thong. Just keep in mind that the underwear should not show under your leotard.

ADVISE
We advise Invisible high cut dance underwear available at the dance shops a.o. the underwear by Dansez-Vous available at Danswinkel in The Hague or Period Underwear by Modibodi

“Ballet should never look predictable. When you dance each move you make is a promise. Even when standing in preparation you are making a promise that there is a story to be told”

- Mirella Simoncini