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Can you swim on your period? Absolutely! Here’s how.

Don’t let the fear of leaks keep you from enjoying the pool. These products can help you stay worry-free while swimming.

Updated: November 15, 2024 |5 minutes to read

Written by: Amber Katz

A person smiles while looking off to the side and leans on the edge of a pool.

Your period shouldn’t stop you from enjoying that swim you’ve been planning.

“People can do most things without menstruating being a hindrance,” says gynecologist Angela Jones, MD,1 a practitioner and medical podcaster based in New Jersey. “There are a wealth of products out now that make carrying on with your day-to-day activities a breeze like tampons and menstrual cups.”

A day at the beach or the pool is a fun day out, and there’s no reason you can’t feel protected and comfortable when on your period. Read on for our tips and guidance.

In this article:

Can you swim on your period?

Yes! You can swim while menstruating. Any uncomfortable moments can easily be avoided with proper planning.

How to choose the best period products to use for swimming

The first step may be to look at the bathing suit you plan to wear. A tight-fitting swimsuit can help secure the period products and avoid any potential messes.

As for those period products, Dr. Jones recommends using either a tampon or a menstrual cup for swimming, both of which will collect blood prior to it exiting the body. When choosing, consider the following factors:

  1. Flow. Consider your flow and choose a product that can accommodate that volume without leaking. If you’re not sure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and choose a product with a higher absorbency.
  2. The length of time for your activity. If you plan to be in the water for an extended amount of time, look for products that are designed to last longer without needing to be changed.
  3. Comfort. Choose a product offering maximum comfort, in addition to protection. This will help you swim more confidently.

Best menstrual products for swimming

Following Dr. Jones’ advice, here’s the breakdown on tampons and menstrual cups, with the benefits of each.

Tampons

Tampons soak up period blood within the vagina. It’s important to insert them properly — always follow the directions on the product — and make sure the string is tucked away before getting in the water.

Another thing to note: Tampons should be changed every few hours for hygiene reasons and to avoid the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Remember, though, that TSS is not caused by tampons, but rather from a buildup of bacteria that can occur if a tampon is left in for too long.2 TSS is rare, but it’s important to change tampons regularly.

Tampons are also a bit more discreet than menstrual cups, which require emptying and rinsing in the sink. Emptying out a cup can be more difficult to do in a public restroom, so bear that in mind.

Some popular tampon options are:

  • o.b. Tampons. These come in a variety of sizes as well, including some sized for ultra absorbency, making them one of the most absorbent on the market. They are applicator-free, so they take up less space in a beach bag.
  • Playtex Sport. This product also comes in a variety of sizes and is designed for sports and motion of all kinds, including swimming.

Menstrual cups

Menstrual cups, on the other hand, are designed to collect menstrual fluid rather than absorb it. That’s another strategy to keep leaks from happening. Cups are also reusable, so some people prefer using them instead of tampons and pads.

Another bonus: Cups are typically less expensive in the long run, costing between $20 and $40 per year as opposed to $50 to $150 per year for tampons or pads.3

For menstrual cups, you might consider:

  • CVS Health® menstrual cup. Made of 100 percent medical-grade silicone, this cup comes in two sizes so you can find the one that best fits your body. It contains no BPA (bisphenol A), dyes, natural rubber latex or plastic, and there are no added chemicals.

  • Intimina Ziggy Cup 2 (size A).This cup boasts a reinforced, flexible petal-thin body that is easy to insert and conforms to the shape of your body so you can't feel it at all. It is made entirely of 100% medical-grade silicone which makes it completely body-safe. It's an eco-friendly period solution you can use over and over again for up to two years.
  • Softdisc menstrual Disc. These are disposable menstrual cups, so they can be thrown out and don’t have to be sterilized in between. They might be considered a happy medium between a tampon and a reusable cup. They offer up to 12 hours of protection per wear and are also nontoxic and hypoallergenic. 

So, start packing that beach towel and sunblock. Using the most suitable menstrual products can help make your time in the water worry-free all year long.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements, and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.

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