It is perfectly safe and common to get in the water while menstruating. Menstruation is the normal biological process where the uterus sheds its lining, which is expelled from the body as blood and tissue. Health professionals agree that swimming and other water activities pose no health risk during this time.
Does Water Stop Menstruation?
The idea that menstrual flow stops entirely upon entering the water is a common misconception. Menstruation is a continuous internal process of shedding the uterine lining that cannot be halted by external water. However, the flow you experience can appear to stop or significantly slow down while submerged.
This phenomenon is explained by the physics principle of hydrostatic pressure. When the body is immersed in water, the surrounding water pressure slightly exceeds the internal pressure of the body. This external pressure acts against the vaginal opening, counteracting the force of gravity that normally causes the menstrual fluid to exit.
The pressure prevents the fluid from flowing out, even though blood continues to collect in the vaginal canal. Once a person exits the water, the hydrostatic pressure is immediately removed, and the menstrual flow resumes its normal rate. Activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing or sneezing, can temporarily overcome the water pressure, potentially causing a minimal amount of fluid to be released.
Addressing Hygiene and Health Myths
Swimming during a period is not unhygienic and does not increase the risk of infection when proper precautions are taken. In well-maintained swimming pools, the chlorine used to treat the water is effective at killing bacteria and quickly neutralizes any small amount of blood that might escape. Menstrual fluid is composed of blood, tissue, and vaginal fluids, all of which the pool’s sanitation system is designed to handle.
Concerns about visible blood in the water are generally unwarranted, particularly when using internal protection. If a minute amount of blood were to escape, it would be quickly diluted by the sheer volume of water, making it virtually invisible. Using an appropriate internal product makes the likelihood of any noticeable release extremely low.
Engaging in physical activity like swimming can offer relief from common menstrual symptoms. The gentle, low-impact nature of swimming, combined with the relaxing effect of buoyancy, can help soothe muscle tension. Exercise releases endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers that can help reduce the discomfort of menstrual cramps.
The risk of contracting a vaginal infection, such as Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), is not increased simply by swimming while menstruating. However, staying in a wet swimsuit for extended periods can create a moist environment. This may encourage the growth of yeast or bacteria, potentially leading to conditions like yeast infections. To minimize this risk, change into dry clothing immediately after leaving the water.
Choosing the Right Protection for Water Activities
The most effective way to manage menstruation while swimming is by using internal products that contain the flow before it exits the body. Sanitary pads and panty liners are ineffective in water because their absorbent material quickly saturates, rendering them useless for menstrual flow.
Tampons
Tampons are a widely used and reliable option for swimming, as they absorb the flow internally. It is advisable to insert a fresh tampon immediately before entering the water for maximum protection. A potential drawback is that the tampon string and part of the cotton can absorb some of the surrounding pool or seawater. Because tampons absorb external water, they should be changed immediately upon exiting the water to prevent prolonged exposure of the vaginal canal to the absorbed water.
Menstrual Cups and Discs
Menstrual cups and discs are frequently preferred by regular swimmers because they collect menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it. Made from medical-grade silicone, they form a seal against the vaginal walls, which prevents blood from leaking out and prevents water from entering the cup. This watertight seal means the product does not absorb external water, eliminating the soggy feeling associated with tampons and allowing for a longer wear time, often up to 12 hours. Users should empty the cup before swimming to ensure maximum capacity.
Period Swimwear
Period swimwear is a newer option that features a built-in, absorbent, and leak-proof gusset layer. This product is best suited for individuals experiencing a very light flow, spotting, or as a reliable backup when using an internal product. The integrated material is designed to absorb menstrual fluid while resisting the absorption of water.