It is safe and possible to swim while menstruating, but a standard pad cannot be used for protection. A traditional pad is designed with highly absorbent materials that quickly soak up water, rendering it ineffective for absorbing menstrual fluid. Furthermore, the adhesive backing fails when submerged, increasing the risk of the product shifting or falling out. Swimming is manageable with alternative, water-friendly menstrual products.
The Physics of Swimming During Menstruation
When the body is fully submerged in water, hydrostatic pressure comes into effect. This pressure is exerted by the surrounding water against your body, temporarily counteracting the gravitational force that facilitates the exit of menstrual fluid. This physical resistance creates the illusion that your period has stopped entirely while you are in the water.
The menstrual process continues as usual; the flow is merely held back while the external water pressure is greater than the internal pressure. Sudden movements, such as a cough or intense muscle contraction, can momentarily overcome this external pressure, potentially allowing a small amount of fluid to escape.
Any fluid released will be instantly diluted by the large volume of water. However, the moment you stand up or exit the water, the hydrostatic pressure is removed, and normal menstrual flow will immediately resume. Relying solely on physics without internal or barrier protection risks leakage immediately upon leaving the water.
Effective Protection Methods for Water
The most reliable solutions for swimming are internal products or specialized absorbent barrier garments. These options prevent the menstrual fluid from escaping while submerged and provide protection upon exiting the water.
Menstrual Cups and Discs
Menstrual cups and discs are made of medical-grade silicone and are placed internally to collect menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it. They form a secure seal against the vaginal walls, preventing both menstrual fluid from leaking out and water from entering the cup. Cups and discs offer the highest capacity of all period products, often holding fluid for up to 12 hours, which is ideal for extended time at the beach or pool.
Tampons
Tampons are a widely used internal option, made of compressed cotton or rayon that absorbs the menstrual flow. They are effective for swimming, but they can absorb some of the surrounding pool or ocean water, which reduces their capacity for menstrual fluid. The tampon string, if exposed, can also wick water into the product, which is why they should be changed promptly after leaving the water.
Period Swimwear
Period swimwear features a built-in, multi-layered gusset made of absorbent and waterproof material. The inner layers absorb the flow, while a waterproof outer layer acts as a barrier to prevent leaks and keep the absorbent core from soaking up external water. This option is often preferred by those who cannot or prefer not to use internal products.
Addressing Common Safety and Hygiene Myths
Concerns about hygiene and safety when swimming on your period are based on common misconceptions. One fear is that menstrual fluid will contaminate the water for others. This is unlikely because public pools are treated with chlorine, bromine, and other disinfectants specifically to neutralize bacteria and maintain a sanitary environment.
The amount of menstrual fluid released, even without protection, is very small and instantly diluted. Fears about attracting marine life, particularly sharks, are unfounded. There is no scientific evidence that the small amount of blood loss from menstruation poses any greater risk of attracting sharks than the trace amounts of blood or other fluids naturally present in the ocean.
Swimming does not increase the risk of developing Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare complication linked to the prolonged use of high-absorbency tampons. However, staying in a wet swimsuit for an extended period after swimming can sometimes contribute to minor issues like yeast infections due to the moist environment.
Practical Tips for a Comfortable Swim
To ensure a comfortable experience, insert your chosen protection method immediately before entering the water. For internal products, ensure the tampon or cup is positioned correctly to minimize the risk of shifting or leaking during the activity. If using a tampon, insert a fresh one right before swimming to maximize its absorbency for menstrual fluid.
After swimming, change your internal product as soon as possible. Tampons can become saturated with water, and changing them prevents this absorbed water from wicking upward. Choosing a darker colored swimsuit can provide comfort, though a properly inserted product prevents visible leakage. Having a discreet bag with a clean change of clothes and fresh products ready will make the transition out of the water smooth.