Many female athletes, including swimmers, have to deal with getting their period while competing or training. This can present some unique challenges when it comes to what to wear while swimming on your period. In this article, we’ll take a look at the options female swimmers have for managing their periods in the pool.
Tampons
Tampons are a popular option for swimmers on their period. Tampons are absorbent products that are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. Here are some of the pros and cons of using tampons while swimming:
Pros:
- Tampons are discreet and cannot be seen under a swimsuit
- They allow for free range of motion without restriction
- The absorbent material soaks up blood instead of it getting into the water
Cons:
- There is a risk of leakage if the tampon becomes oversaturated
- Tampons may absorb some of the pool water, causing dryness
- Some people find tampons uncomfortable, especially for long periods of time
Many tampon manufacturers make tampons specifically designed for swimming and sports. These ultra absorbent tampons can hold more fluid and may be less likely to leak. It’s a good idea to change your tampon frequently while swimming to reduce the chances of leakage.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are reusable cups that are inserted into the vagina to collect period blood. Here are the pros and cons of using menstrual cups while swimming:
Pros:
- Menstrual cups can hold more fluid than tampons, up to 3 times as much
- They only need to be changed 2-3 times per day typically
- There is a lower risk of leakage compared to tampons
- They are reusable and environmentally friendly
Cons:
- It may take some practice to insert and remove the cup comfortably
- Menstrual cups sit lower in the vagina than tampons which some find uncomfortable
- You need to wash and reinsert the cup when changing it
- Cups may potentially shift out of place while swimming
Many women prefer menstrual cups for swimming because they only need to be changed 2-3 times per day. Look for a cup designed specifically for sports that fits your body well.
Period-Proof Swimwear
There are now specially designed swimsuits and bikini bottoms made for women to wear while on their periods. These suits have a built-in leak-proof lining to help absorb menstrual blood. Here are some features of period-proof swimwear:
- Lining contains an absorbent layer to soak up blood
- Antimicrobial treatments prevent odor and bacterial growth
- Stylish designs that look like regular swimsuits
- Reusable and washable
- Provides leak protection without needing other products
Period-proof swimsuits give women the freedom to swim without the worry of leaks or stains. They can hold about 1-2 regular tampons worth of fluid. Some suits recommend wearing a lightweight pad or liner for extra protection.
Swim Tampons
Swim tampons are designed with sport and swimming in mind. They are ultra absorbent to hold more fluid and less likely to leak. Here’s how swim tampons differ from regular tampons:
| Swim Tampons | Regular Tampons |
|---|---|
| Made of highly absorbent material | Less absorbent materials |
| Can expand to hold more fluid | Less expandable |
| Longer shape to fit active women | Regular size and shape |
| Designed to stay in place | May shift position |
| Change every 2-4 hours | Change every 4-8 hours |
Look for tampon brands specially made for swimmers if you want to use a tampon while in the pool. Change them frequently to lower the risk of any leaks or absorption issues.
Menstrual Pads
Menstrual pads and pantiliners provide an extra layer of protection if you’re using another period product like a cup or tampon while swimming. Here are some tips for using pads/liners for swimming:
- Choose thin, lightweight pads or liners to avoid bulk under swimwear
- Look for pads with a water-resistant layer or treatment to prevent soaking through
- Use pads made for sports that resist bunching and shifting
- Change pads frequently, especially after getting out of the water
- Wear swim bottoms a size larger to help hold pad in place
- Dispose of used pads discretely after use
Pads and liners can provide backup protection against leaks when swimming. Combine them with tampons or menstrual cups for extra coverage and security.
Swimming Briefs
Some female swimmers wear tight-fitting briefs or bottoms under their swimsuits while on their periods. The snug fit can help hold protection like tampons, pads or cups in place. Consider these tips for wearing swimming briefs during your period:
- Look for briefs made from spandex/Lycra or athletic compression materials
- Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric may be more comfortable
- Make sure briefs are tight-fitting but not uncomfortably tight
- Wear your regular swimsuit over the briefs
- Bring an extra pair of briefs to change into as needed
The tight fit of swimming briefs can help prevent products from shifting out of place. Compression shorts and bike shorts can also work well for this purpose.
Sea Sponges
Sea sponges are natural sponges that some women use during menstruation. They are inserted vaginally to soak up menstrual flow. Here’s an overview of using sea sponges while swimming:
Pros:
- Natural and chemical-free option
- Reusable for up to 6 months
- Comfortable fit for many women
- Doesn’t dry out the vagina like tampons
Cons:
- Potential risk of infection if not cleaned properly
- May leak for heavy flow
- Hard to judge when saturated
- Needs to be rinsed and reinserted when changed
Sea sponges may work for swimming but require proper care. Make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize sponges between uses. Change frequently while swimming to avoid leaks.
Menstrual Cups vs. Tampons for Swimming
Both menstrual cups and tampons are common options for swimmers during their periods. Here’s a comparison of menstrual cups vs. tampons for use while swimming:
| Menstrual Cups | Tampons |
|---|---|
| Can hold up to 3x more fluid than tampons | Need to be changed more frequently |
| Lower risk of leaks if correctly inserted | More prone to leaking when saturated |
| Only changed 2-3 times per day | Must change at least every 4-8 hours |
| Reusable and environmentally friendly | Disposable and create waste |
| Can feel uncomfortable to insert and remove | Typically comfortable for most women |
Ultimately it comes down to personal preference. Try out both options to see which is more comfortable for you in the pool. Some women use both methods together for maximum protection.
Other Swimming Tips for Periods
Here are some other tips to manage swimming while on your period:
- Pack extra period supplies and a waterproof bag for used products
- Use the bathroom right before getting into the water
- Wear dark-colored swim bottoms in case of leaks
- Rinse off right after getting out of the pool if you can
- Change menstrual products frequently to avoid leaks or overflow
- Consider wearing a pantyliner or light pad for extra backup
- Try period-proof swimwear for the most secure protection
With some preparation and the right products, there’s no reason women should have to sit out swimming during their periods. Be proactive by packing supplies, changing frequently, and wearing suitable leak protection options in the water.
Is it Safe to Swim During Your Period?
It is perfectly safe for women to swim while on their periods. The blood is contained by tampons, cups, or other products and does not enter the water. Here are some facts about the safety of swimming during menstruation:
- Period blood will not attract sharks or other wildlife, this is a myth
- Tampons and cups prevent blood from leaving the body
- Menstrual products should contain any potential leaks
- There are no health risks to women from swimming while on periods
- The chlorine in pools sanitizes the water and kills bacteria
- No evidence shows that period blood creates a health hazard in water
As long as a tampon, cup, or pad is worn, period blood should not enter the water at all. Women can feel confident that it is perfectly safe to swim during their periods for both their health and others around them.
What About Toxic Shock Syndrome?
One concern that sometimes gets raised is whether using tampons while swimming increases the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but potentially serious bacterial infection linked to tampon use. Here’s what women should know about TSS and swimming:
- Proper tampon hygiene reduces the risk – change every 4-8 hours
- Alternate between pads or menstrual cups to give skin a break
- Look for tampons with TSS warnings and guidance
- Avoid super absorbent & ultra absorbent tampons if concerned
- Know the signs of TSS – fever, rash, low BP, confusion
- See a doctor immediately if TSS symptoms arise
Following the above precautions and not leaving tampons in too long while swimming can help lower any risks. But in general, the overall risk of TSS is still extremely low.
Swimming on Your Period: Takeaways
- It’s completely safe for women to swim during menstruation. Period blood poses no risks in water if contained by tampons, cups, or leak-proof swimwear.
- Tampons, menstrual cups, and absorbent swimsuits are the best options for controlling flow while swimming.
- Change protection frequently, at least every 4-8 hours. Bring extra supplies when swimming on your period.
- Wearing pads or pantyliners provides backup leak protection for swimming.
- Stay comfortable by choosing tampons, cups, or briefs designed for sports and swimming.
- Proper hygiene helps minimize risks like leaks and reduce any concerns over toxic shock syndrome.
With the right products and some preparation, women can swim with full confidence even during their monthly periods. Don’t let that time of the month keep you out of the pool!