Can You Swim On Your Period


When you first start menstruating, it is completely normal to wonder can you swim during your period. Many girls are concerned about doing this, but you should never let your period get in the way of having a good time in the water. Not only will you have fun and get to hang out with your friends, but the exercise can also boost your mood and reduce cramps.

Can You Swim on Your Period?

The short answer is yes. There is absolutely no reason to avoid the water during this time of the month as long as you are prepared. It isn’t unsafe to get into the water during your menstrual cycle; this is simply an old myth. Provided you feel fine, you shouldn’t stop doing your regular daily activities just because of your normal blood flow.

It is actually a great idea to swim during your period because physical exercise can reduce the fatigue and cramps typically associated with your period.

How to Swim on Your Period

Now that you understand the answer to can you swim on your period, it is time to learn how to do it. You will want to start by inserting a menstrual cup or tampon. It is possible that swimming will temporarily stop or reduce your flow, but it is best to be prepared. Don’t forget to bring extra supplies with you. This is especially important if you are using tampons since menstrual cups are reusable.

1. Insert a Tampon

If you already wear tampons regularly, you are ready to wear them while swimming. Since they will expand to fit your body’s contours, you don’t have to worry about leakage. You can easily hide a tampon string in your bikini bottom; just remember to change it at least every 4-8 hours, doing so more often if your flow is heavy.

If you don’t know how to insert a tampon, watch this video to learn how:

2. Insert a Menstrual Cup

Although menstrual cups still aren’t as popular or well-known as tampons, they are another great option. You insert the cup into your vagina and it sits at the base, collecting blood. You can wear a menstrual cup 10 hours and it is also invisible to others. There isn’t even a string for you to hide so you don’t have to worry about the non-existent string slipping out of your swimsuit bottom.

Click here to learn how to insert a menstrual cup.

3. Swim with a Pad

Most people advise against swimming with a pad, or even a panty liner. These products are designed to absorb moisture so they will get soggy and wet when you get in the water. Even if you wear it in your swimsuit bottom out of the water, they will typically be noticeable.

Despite this, it is possible to go swimming with a pad on. Just avoid doing so in a pool that is chlorinated since the risk of it being contaminated by menstrual blood is considered unsafe.

If you plan on swimming with a pad, always pick one without wings and pick a thin one if possible. Wings would be very obvious since they wrap around the crotch. Start by putting on your swimsuit like you would any other day. Then, adjust your pad so it is protecting you properly.

Now you can just swim as normal, as long as you are in the ocean, river, or lake. Keep in mind, however, that the pad will get more saturated with water than normal. Because of this, you should try not to stay in the water too long with it. As soon as you get out of the water, change your pad. This will be necessary to prevent bacteria and because the pad will most likely be thoroughly saturated. Repeat this process as often as you need to.

Tips and Warnings:

  • For most women, menstrual flow stops when you get in the after. If you are one of the lucky women who stop bleeding immediately when in the water or are flowing very lightly, you may be able to avoid using a pad at all. If you go this route, keep your pad or tampon nearby and make sure there will not be any leakage.
  • Consider picking a swimsuit bottom that is dark during your period. This will not only look attractive, but if any small leaks or stains occur, it will help hide them from prying eyes.
  • If at any point you don’t feel comfortable swimming with your period, don’t be afraid to get out of the water. Although the answer to can you swim on your period is yes, you want to avoid leaks and feeling uncomfortable.
  • Whether or not you have any leaks, act natural. Most likely, no one will notice the leakage unless you point it out. The same goes for the fact that you are wearing a tampon or pad with your swimsuit.
  • If you are self-conscious and concerned that the tampon string is showing or your pad will be visible, wear a pair of shorts. This will add protection and privacy. Just find a cute pair and put them on over your suit.
  • To get the most out of your time in the water, take preventative steps against cramps and bloating. You can’t ever guarantee that you will feel normal when you have your period, but you can minimize the issues. Try to avoid caffeine as well as foods that are unhealthy, salty, or fried. If you are in pain with severe cramps, take a pain reliever like Motrin. In some cases, simply getting in the water and distracting yourself will be enough to take care of the problem and help you forget about pain, cramps, or discomfort.
 
 
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