You had planned to have a great time with your friends at tomorrow’s pool party, but you’re on your period. Now, can you wear a pad while swimming? Thinking that it’s unhygienic, or you may leave a trail of blood and end up in an awkward situation.
Pads absorb water as you get down to the pool. When exposed to water, the adhesives will lose their hold. For which, the pad might get detached. Even though wingless pads are an option, there are a few better options to consider, such as tampons, cups, and waterproof pants.
Is Swimming Possible During a Period?
In a short and straightforward answer, yes, you can swim on your period. There’s no justification not to! Although the answer completely resides in your mood and desires. Even it will not be a bad choice of lying on the couch and eating pizza.
Swimming is undeniably one of the best activities, and it can also be a good choice during menstruation. In truth, exercise during your menstrual cycle has numerous advantages.
For instance, while swimming in your menstrual cycle, your body releases endorphins, natural painkillers that help in uncomfortable periods and increases a sense of well-being.
If You Swim On Your Period, Will You Leak?
Well, there is less chance that you will leave a bloody trail or you may leak while you are enjoying your swimming. Nevertheless, if you fail to take the necessary precautions, you may get slight bleeding.
You won’t leak if you use the correct products to control your flow. Pads and panty liners made of absorbent materials aren’t a smart choice as they absorb water and lose their usefulness.
In contrast, tampons can absorb the menstrual fluid even before it leaves the body. Also, menstrual cups might be kept within the body for 12 hours with no possibility of leaking. Therefore, these are viable and long-term choices to consider.
A point worth mentioning is that the water pressure can effectively limit your flow as long as you stay in the water. However, if you giggle, cough, or sneeze the pressure may fluctuate, and a small quantity of blood may leak.
No need to be concerned; the amount is so little that it will be dissolved by water and will not be noticeable to you or others.
Is It Possible to Swim While Using a Period Pad?
Pads are made in such a way that they can easily absorb liquids, thus they won’t function effectively while swimming as they’ll absorb both the water and your period blood! The wet pad could also turn into a big soggy mess.
In addition, the adhesive backing that maintains your pad in proper position can potentially become ineffective when exposed to water. Once disposable pads become wet, they may fall out below your swim shorts.
That’s why swimming with a pad on your period is not recommended. Although if you’re merely relaxing by the pool or sunning on the beach, you can wear a pad.
It’s worth noting that getting your pad soaked will have no negative consequences. So don’t get too worked up if your pad becomes wet unintentionally or accidentally.
Anyway, if you prefer pads over other feminine care products such as a tampon or menstrual cup as you feel uncomfortable with them. Then, pads without wings can be a decent choice if you want to wear a pad but also remain discreet.
Best Swimming Items During Your Period
Let’s look into a few of the best items to consider if you want to swim on your period. These products are not identical to a bathing suit, however, they can save you from odd situations and will help to enjoy your pool party or beach gatherings without any hesitations!
Period Proof Swimwear
Period-resistant swimwear has a concealed layer that absorbs menstruation blood and appears much like regular bikini bottoms. Due to that extra layer, you no need to worry about period blood leaking.
Tampons
Tampons are made to capture your blood flow before it exits your body and reaches the water. If you’re going to be out all day, keep in mind to have plenty of tampons and do change them every 2–3 hours.
Waterproof Pants
If you’d rather have fun than worry about your sanitary products, these waterproof pants are ideal. Some pants come with a pocket for a pad.
Besides, no water can seep inside and cause leaks because these pants feature a waterproof covering. The elastic borders ensure a secure fit as well. The gusset of these pants around your pelvis is absorbent and dries rapidly.
Menstrual Cup
If you’re seeking an alternative to tampons, consider the equally effective menstrual cup. Before leaving your body, blood is also trapped in the cup. Tampons are cotton, whereas menstrual cups are made of rubber or silicone.
Swimming is also hygienic with a menstrual cup as it does not soak any of the water or blood, only contains it. You can use a cup for longer periods and not have to bring any additional ones with you; simply wash and reuse it.
Is Swimming On Period Unhygienic?
Swimming while on your period is not unsanitary. It’s improbable that any menstrual blood will be spilled into the water if you use a tampon or a menstrual cup. However, if your period started while you were in the pool and a minor amount of blood leaks, the water will dilute it.
Even though swimming pools contain minor amounts of body fluids such as urine and sweat, the water is normally chlorinated to minimize disease transmission.
So, swimming on your period will not put other swimmers’ health at risk. In nutshell, with a few precautions, swimming during your period is neither unhygienic nor dirty.
Can You Develop an Infection While Swimming on Your Period?
Swimming while on your period is entirely safe and will not put you in danger of a vaginal infection.
However, chlorine-containing pools can irritate the areas of your vagina, resulting in a vaginal yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis (BV). Chlorine is added to the pool to reduce disease transmission, though it may irritate certain people.
If you’re one of them, remember to keep your risks under control. After prolonged contact with these chemicals, take a shower and wear fresh, dry clothes as soon as feasible. If you notice anything unusual or have any concerns, schedule an appointment with your physician or G.P.
Does Swimming Make Your Cramps Worse?
A lot of people think, swimming can make your cramps worse, especially when it’s in the lower back and stomach. This isn’t the truth. Research shows that swimming can actually lower period cramps and period-related pain in your body.
Moreover, the water’s buoyancy, as well as the gentle flowing of the water across your body, have a significant calming impact on your muscles. This can help with period discomfort and bloating, as well as relieve cramps.
A Few Tips for Swimming During Periods
If you are determined to swim on your period, here are a few tips to note down. Let’s have a look at it!
In Public Swimming Pools
If you’re in a public pool, keep a dark towel by your side to cover you when you exit so that any blood leaks aren’t apparent, in case you leak. If you swim with a tampon, bacteria may become trapped within. Therefore, when you get out of the water, make sure you switch to a fresh tampon and take shower.
On the Beach
This tip is nearly identical to the prior one. Make sure you have a sufficient supply of period products. After you’ve finished comfortable swimming, take a shower and, because the ocean or seawater contains a lot of salt, make sure you thoroughly clean yourself.
Keep your towel by your side and swim as close as possible to a public washroom or change room.
Without Period Items
Don’t be concerned if you forget your period products at home. You can swim without any period protections. The water pressure surrounding you helps to keep menstrual blood from spilling out. Don’t overwork your vaginal muscles, and be particularly cautious to avoid any unusual situations.
When Should You Avoid Swimming?
Swimming on your period, or any other time, is entirely up to you. If you don’t feel ready, you always have the option to make the best decision for yourself. It’s advised not to go for a swim if you do have signs such as a fever, cough, or are otherwise ill.
In addition, if you are in a heavy period that you haven’t experienced earlier or don’t have a better explanation, rather than going to the pool, it’s crucial to have a visit to your doctor.