Snorkeling, the activity of swimming near the surface with a mask and snorkel, is safe and possible to enjoy while menstruating. There is no medical or biological reason to avoid water activities during your period. With a few practical preparations, you can comfortably participate in surface swimming and underwater exploration.
Managing Menstruation in the Water
Choosing the correct internal menstrual product is necessary for hygiene and comfort during water activities, as external pads or liners are not effective for swimming. These absorbent products quickly soak up water, losing their capacity to manage flow and becoming saturated. Tampons are a common choice because they are discreet and effective, absorbing the menstrual fluid internally while you are submerged. Change a tampon immediately after exiting the water, as the product may absorb some surrounding water and should not be left in place for an extended period post-swim.
Menstrual cups and discs are excellent alternatives for water sports because they collect fluid rather than absorbing it. They form a seal inside the body, which prevents leaks and the intake of water from the surrounding environment. Cups and discs often offer longer wear times, sometimes up to 12 hours, which is convenient for a full day of snorkeling or boat travel. Before starting any water activity, empty and properly insert your chosen internal product to ensure maximum protection.
Proper hygiene is important when changing products in environments like beach restrooms or boat cabins. Carrying a small, waterproof bag with extra supplies, hand sanitizer, and wipes allows for sanitary insertion and disposal. For reusable products, having a bottle of drinking water available can aid in rinsing them if a sink is not accessible.
Addressing the Shark Myth
The fear that menstrual blood attracts sharks is a widely circulated but unsupported myth. Sharks possess an acute sense of smell and can detect bodily fluids, including blood, in the water. However, there is no scientific evidence suggesting that menstruating individuals face an increased risk of shark attacks. Menstrual fluid is a mixture of blood, mucus, and endometrial tissue, which differs significantly from the blood of marine animals that sharks typically hunt.
The volume of blood released during menstruation is minimal, averaging only about four to twelve teaspoons over several days. Any small amount of fluid that might escape is quickly dispersed and diluted in the vastness of the ocean, making it negligible to a shark. Sharks are more likely to be attracted to the fluids released by fish, which are a natural part of their diet, or to the movements and vibrations caused by splashing.
Data from organizations that track shark incidents show no correlation between menstrual cycles and attacks. Historical data indicates that over 80% of recorded shark bites have involved men, reflecting their higher participation in high-risk marine activities like long-distance swimming and spearfishing. The consensus among marine biologists is that the risk posed by menstruation is non-existent.
Physical Comfort and Flow Dynamics
Snorkeling can provide relief from common menstrual symptoms, as light to moderate exercise encourages the release of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. The gentle, rhythmic movements of swimming, combined with the buoyancy of the water, can help relax uterine muscles and ease the discomfort of cramps. Staying well-hydrated is important, as dehydration can intensify symptoms like fatigue and headaches.
A phenomenon known as hydrostatic pressure explains why menstrual flow appears to temporarily stop while you are submerged. The external pressure exerted by the surrounding water against the vaginal opening counteracts the force of gravity, preventing the menstrual fluid from flowing out. This effect does not halt the shedding of the uterine lining, which continues internally. If you cough or sneeze, a small amount of fluid might escape due to increased internal pressure, but this is usually contained by an internal product.
The temporary slowing of flow only lasts as long as you are in the water. Once you exit and the external hydrostatic pressure is removed, your normal menstrual flow will immediately resume. This is why using an internal product is essential, and changing a tampon or emptying a cup shortly after returning to the boat or shore is necessary. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever before you start can also help manage existing cramps.