Can you wear period underwear while swimming

As you all know, the menstrual cycle stops for no one, not even the beach vacay you’ve planned months in advance. Sigh. 

While I don’t think there are *any* activities that your period should prevent you from doing, I’ll be the first to acknowledge that braving the beach while bleeding is stressful AF. I’ve been going away the same week in July (this week, lol) for coming up on ten years now, and guess what always ~flows~ ashore uninvited for a few days? I’m basically a period swimming pro, and now I shall impart all my wisdom unto you in these five tips.

So stop stressing, and start swimming!

no pads or anything *absorbent*

Pads and any other period products that sit on your underwear won’t work out if applied to a swimsuit. For one, any adhesives on the back will be rendered useless, and I don’t know about you, but I’m not trying to fold wings around the bottom of my bathing suit.

And unfortunately, while our kicka$$ tech is great at absorbing your flow… it’s not exactly waterproof. So while wearing your Thinx to the pool will look cute (leotard, anyone?), once you dive in, it’ll immediately fill with up to ½ - 4 tampons’ worth of water – and there won’t be anymore room for blood.

stick to tampons and cups – and pack extra

Using a tampon or a menstrual cup under your bathing suit is your best bet. However, you should make sure you bring along extra products, as well as locate a safe place to replace your products in a timely manner. There are no health risks related to swimming on your period, but keeping a tampon or cup in for longer than recommended is still a big no! 

Worried about visible tampon strings? First thing’s first: periods are natural and menstruators really shouldn’t have to hide them — even Olympic swimmers gotta deal. If flashing string in a public area is still freaking you out, ask one of your buddies to check on you every once in a while. We bet both of you will forget by the time you start having fun in the sun anyway!

manage your PMS symptoms, or skip your period entirely

Unless you’re one of *those people* who enjoys exercising on your period, it can sometimes be rough doing strenuous activity (or… any activity) during shark week. Keep track of your cycle, and take the appropriate dose of painkillers the night before your beach day to stop cramps in their tracks. To be fair, light exercise like swimming is said to alleviate cramps naturally, so if your PMS symptoms are mild, you might be in the clear!

Alternatively, if you are on hormonal birth control like NuvaRing or the pill, you can consider consulting your doctor about skipping your placebo week – no period, no problem (but seriously, talk to your gyno first)!

ignore myths

Don’t let #FakeNews cramp your style!

Yes, swimming on your period is fine. No, it’s not unsanitary. And no, you won’t get attacked by sharks (TBH, if you’re swimming in shark-infested waters, your period is the last thing you should be concerned about).

don’t be afraid to sunbathe

Sometimes, no matter what, you just won’t be in the mood to hit the water. 

That’s okay! Pull your fab bathing suit over whateeeverr period products you want, grab your cutest sunnies, a good book, and set up shop poolside or on the sand. Just remember to apply pleeenty of SPF. Anyone you’re hanging with should totally understand, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of!

Got any of your own hacks for swimming on your period? Share them in the comments!

by Toni Brannagan

Key Facts

  • Period underwear come in a variety of colors, styles and for different menstrual flows.
  • Period underwear can be used instead of pads, tampons, or other period products.
  • Most period underwear are safe and effective when used during a light-moderate period.
  • When buying period underwear, be sure the lining is made out of cotton.
  • Using period underwear is a personal choice.

Can you wear period underwear while swimming

Are there other period products available besides tampons and pads?

Yes. If you are looking for a reusable period product, you may want to consider period underwear. Unlike tampons and pads that can only be worn once, most period underwear can be washed and used over and over again.

What is period underwear? 

Period underwear are a new eco-friendly period product that is both reusable and absorbable. The idea behind the underwear is similar to that of a pad, but one that is more comfortable. In the lining of the underwear, there are many thin layers of material, which traps blood, while preventing moisture from coming in contact with your skin and vagina. The amount of the blood the underwear can hold depends on the type you buy. Typically, period underwear absorbs a light to moderate flow (or as much as 1-2 tampons); however, it all depends on the type you choose and the amount of your flow. Period underwear looks exactly like a regular pair, and they are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and styles. One company has even designed a pair of period athletic shorts.  Many people are swapping out their one-time use pad or tampon for a pair of stylish period underwear for the convenience and the fact they are reusable.

Can I wear a tampon or cup with period underwear?

Yes, you can absolutely wear a tampon or cup with them. Many people may wear the underwear for added protection from possible leakage.

Can I wear a pad on top of my period underwear?

Technically, you can wear a pad on top of your underwear; however, period underwear were designed to replace the use of a pad. The pad may also prevent the underwear from working properly to trap blood.

Will there be an odor (smell)?

Be sure to change and clean your period underwear at least every 12 hours or sooner. The longer you wear them, the more blood they collect, and the more likely there is going to be an odor. Many of the brands come with an antimicrobial layer to help minimize any odor. Changing them more regularly and wearing cotton/breathable clothing can help as well. It’s important to shower and clean your vulva (outside of vagina) at least once a day, especially during your period. Do not use feminine hygiene deodorants as they can cause irritation of the vulva.  It’s completely normal for periods to have a slight smell; however, it’s important to remember that if you have an unusual odor coming from your vagina that’s different for you, you should call your health care provider (HCP).

Can I wear period underwear while playing sports (i.e. running, swimming, dancing, etc.)?

Yes, there are several companies that have created period athletic shorts, swimwear, and leotards. When you are swimming you can either wear period underwear under a bathing suit or buy special period swimwear. If you choose to wear a period leotard for dance or gymnastics, remember to wear your tights over your leotard, so it works properly.

Can I wash my period underwear?

Washing instructions may vary depending on the brand of period underwear. Be sure to read the instructions before you wash them. However, most say it’s ok to wash them either separately or with other clothes in cold water, then hang dry. There are also some brands that are disposable, so again be sure to read up!

What else do I need to know about period underwear?

You can buy period underwear online or at most department stores. Unfortunately, period underwear can be pricey. Each pair can cost between $10-$65 depending on the brand and style. Usually, the disposable underwear is the more affordable option, but that can defeat one of their benefits of being eco-friendly and reusable. However, investing in a couple of pair of reusable period underwear may end up being cheaper than buying 1-2 boxes of tampons or pads each month.

Period underwear can be used instead of pads or tampons. They cost more initially; however, they are reusable and may be more comfortable and cost less over time. Using period underwear during your period is a personal choice.

Can period undies be used for swimming?

Even though period underwear has leak-proof fabric, it won't keep you protected from period leaks while swimming and are not suitable to wear in the water. Like pads, because period underwear is worn on the outside of your body, it will soak up water while swimming and lead to some seriously messy overflow!

What to wear in swimming during periods?

Can I Go Swimming During My Period? Swimming during your period isn't a problem. However, you will want to use a tampon when swimming so you don't bleed on your swimsuit. Pads won't work and will just fill with water.

What's the difference between period underwear and period swimwear?

Period swimwear is basically the same as period underwear, except it's designed to be worn in the water, whereas period underwear is not. You cannot swim in normal period underwear. Period underwear and period swimwear have completely different designs.

Is it OK to swim on your period without a pad?

Without period products Fear not! You can still swim without period protection. The pressure from the water around you helps prevent menstrual blood from leaking. Don't push your vaginal muscles and be prepared for when you get out of the water!