Traditional pads, including sanitary napkins and panty liners, are not a functional option for swimming. Understanding why they fail and what safe alternatives exist can help you plan confidently for water activities during your menstrual cycle. This guide provides clear, practical information on managing your period while enjoying the pool or the ocean.
Why Traditional Pads Fail When Submerged
Traditional absorbent pads are engineered to manage fluid leaving the body, not to withstand submersion in water. The core of a standard pad contains super-absorbent polymers (SAPs), designed to rapidly draw in and lock away fluid. These polymers convert liquid into a gel to prevent back-seepage and keep the surface dry.
When submerged, SAPs cannot distinguish between menstrual fluid and the surrounding water. The pad quickly saturates with pool or seawater, causing the polymers to swell significantly and turn the product into a heavy, waterlogged mass. This rapid saturation prevents the pad from absorbing menstrual flow, making it immediately ineffective.
The structural integrity also fails when the pad becomes waterlogged. The adhesive backing loses its grip on underwear or swimwear fabric once wet. The combination of swelling, weight, and loss of adhesion means the pad will likely shift, bunch up, or detach completely, leading to hygiene and comfort issues.
Effective Alternatives for Swimming
Since external pads are incompatible with water, internal collection methods or specialized apparel are necessary for swimming during menstruation.
Tampons
Tampons are a widely used option because they are inserted into the vaginal canal to absorb fluid internally before it leaves the body. It is recommended to insert a fresh tampon immediately before entering the water and to change it promptly after exiting. This minimizes the risk of the string or the product absorbing pool or seawater. Tucking the string discreetly into the labia can prevent it from becoming visible outside of the swimsuit.
Menstrual Cups and Discs
Menstrual cups and discs offer a reliable, non-absorbent alternative, making them excellent for water activities. These devices are made from medical-grade silicone and are inserted internally to collect menstrual fluid rather than absorb it. A properly inserted cup or disc creates a seal that prevents leakage and stops water from entering the vaginal canal. Because they collect fluid, they can typically be worn for up to 12 hours, allowing for longer time in the water compared to tampons.
Period Swimwear
Specialized period swimwear represents an external, reusable option for those who prefer not to use internal products. This swimwear features a built-in, multi-layered gusset. This integrated lining includes an absorbent layer and a waterproof barrier to hold menstrual flow and prevent leaks into the water. Period swimwear is best suited for lighter flow days or can be used as a secondary layer of protection alongside an internal product on heavier flow days.
Dispelling Myths About Menstruation and Water Activities
Concerns about visible leakage are common, but they are generally unfounded when using appropriate protection. The external pressure of the water often temporarily reduces or pauses the flow of menstrual fluid while submerged. Even if a minuscule amount of fluid were to escape, it would be instantly diluted and dispersed in a large volume of water, making it highly unlikely to be noticeable.
A frequent concern is the risk of infection when swimming during menstruation. Swimming in a clean, well-maintained pool does not increase the risk of infection, as the chlorine effectively neutralizes bacteria in the water. Similarly, swimming in the vastness of the ocean poses a low risk, as the water rapidly dilutes any bodily fluids.
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is not linked to water activity itself, but rather to the prolonged use of high-absorbency tampons. To maintain good hygiene and minimize potential risk, change any internal product immediately after getting out of the water. Avoid sitting for extended periods in wet swimwear, as damp conditions can promote the growth of bacteria or yeast.