Swimming is one of the recommended activities to improve physical health. You hardly think it as an exercise when you’re having fun in the pool or ocean. While it’s great to go for a dip in the water during the summer months, you might be hesitant to do so when you have your period.
This begs the question: is it all right for you to be swimming during your menstrual cycle? If so, what are the options?
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Can you swim when you have your period?
The short answer to this question is yes. In fact, it’s highly recommended that you do so when it’s that time of the month. Why is that? For one, swimming is exercise, and injecting physical activity when you have your period helps minimize cramps and can even improve your mood.
While these are the certain health benefits, the bottom line is that nothing should stop you from wanting to pursue a specific type of activity just because you are menstruating. In fact, swimming will reduce your menstrual flow. However, this doesn’t mean you should just go into the water with nothing to prevent the blood from leaking out of your suit.
What are the options for swimming while menstruating?
One of the products to use so you can get into the water and swim without having to worry about leaks is a tampon. In fact, if you’re already using this during your menstrual cycle, then it’s absolutely fine to stick with it when swimming. You don’t need to switch products just because you’re going into the ocean or pool.
While using a tampon can prevent leakage, hiding the string can become an issue, as you can keep it out of sight, but there’s also a good chance it might peek out from your swimsuit or bikini bottom.
Tampons are also only good for eight hours, so you have to change regularly if you want to stay for more than that amount of time.
How about using a menstrual cup?
A better alternative to using a tampon when in the water is a menstrual cup. They may not be preferred over tampons, but they can last longer, at an average of 10 to 12 hours.[1]
A menstrual cup, just like a tampon, needs to be inserted into the vagina. There, it will sit and collect menstrual blood until it’s time for you to change. Unlike the tampon, this device doesn’t have a string attached to it, so you don’t have to worry about anything peeking out from under your suit or bikini bottom.
Are there other tips for swimming during your period?
- Don’t wear pads. These absorb water and will end up soggy. They will also swell and be clearly noticeable in your suit or bikini bottom.
- Bring more than one supply of feminine hygiene products. Even though menstrual cups last 12 hours, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring additional supplies. How about your protection from leakage on the way home (in case you have to drive to the beach or pool)? Plus, someone you’re traveling with might need one as well.
Menstrual cups and tampons allow you to take a dip in the ocean or pool even when your monthly visitor comes along. That said, the former has a slight edge over the latter, especially in terms of how long it lasts.
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