Tampons are a widely used menstrual hygiene product designed for the internal absorption of menstrual fluid. These compressed plugs, typically a blend of cotton and rayon fibers, allow individuals to manage their flow discreetly while engaging in various activities, including swimming. The internal placement and absorbent nature of tampons make them a popular choice for active lifestyles. However, external water sources like swimming pools or oceans raise questions about their performance and safety.
Tampon Absorption Mechanics in Water
The primary function of a tampon relies on capillary action, which is the ability of a liquid to flow in narrow spaces against the force of gravity. Tampons are constructed from highly porous, compressed fibers that create a network of microscopic channels, wicking and locking away menstrual fluid once inserted. This structure contributes to the tampon’s high absorbency and rapid expansion.
When a tampon is exposed to any external liquid, including pool water, it will absorb that liquid quickly because its porous structure does not differentiate between menstrual fluid and water. The force of saturation pressure ensures that the tampon will draw in the surrounding water until it is fully saturated. This means that a tampon worn while swimming will inevitably absorb pool water.
The retrieval string, often made of cotton or a synthetic material, can also act as a wick, drawing water from outside the body toward the absorbent core. Once the tampon absorbs water, it becomes waterlogged, reducing its capacity to absorb menstrual flow and potentially leading to discomfort or leakage upon exiting the water.
Health Risks Associated with Water Absorption
A tampon saturated with pool or lake water introduces foreign substances and potential contaminants into the vaginal environment. Pool water contains chemicals like chlorine, which can disrupt the vagina’s natural, slightly acidic pH balance. This disruption can lead to irritation, dryness, or a higher susceptibility to vaginal infections.
Exposure to non-chlorinated water sources, such as lakes or oceans, carries a risk of absorbing waterborne bacteria. A waterlogged tampon provides a moist, warm environment that can encourage the overgrowth of microorganisms, increasing the risk of infections like bacterial vaginitis or yeast infections. It is important to remove the tampon promptly after swimming to minimize the duration of this exposure.
While water absorption itself does not directly cause Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a severe bacterial infection, a saturated tampon can contribute to general risk factors. TSS is linked to the colonization and toxin production of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, and prolonged wear time increases this risk. A waterlogged tampon may lead a user to leave it in longer than the recommended 4 to 8 hours, increasing the overall TSS risk.
Best Practices for Swimming While Menstruating
Individuals who choose to use tampons for water activities should insert a fresh tampon immediately before getting into the water. This ensures maximum absorbency for menstrual fluid and minimizes the time the tampon has to absorb external water. Remove and replace the tampon immediately upon exiting the water, even if the swim was brief.
Alternatives to Tampons for Swimming
For those seeking a product that does not absorb external water, menstrual cups and menstrual discs are superior alternatives for swimming. These products are made of medical-grade silicone or rubber and are designed to collect menstrual fluid rather than absorb it. By creating a seal inside the vaginal canal, they effectively prevent water from entering and mixing with the collected fluid.
Menstrual cups and discs can be worn for longer periods, often up to 12 hours, providing extended protection and eliminating the immediate need for a change after swimming. Using these collection-based products offers a more secure and comfortable experience, as they maintain natural vaginal moisture and are less likely to be affected by water pressure.