What to Know About Swimming On Your Period?
There are numerous myths surrounding swimming while menstruating. Many of these are based on cultural taboos and beliefs that have no basis in reality. So, can you swim while on your period? You absolutely can. Let's take a look at some of the questions you might have.
Swimming on your periods
When you have your period, you may experience pain and discomfort as a result of cramps. At this time, some people may want to limit their activity and focus on rest.
Physical activity, on the other hand, can help to distract you from your discomfort. While there are many fitness myths, not being able to swim while menstruating is the most ridiculous. Swimming, for example, is recommended by health experts as one of several types of exercise to do while menstruating.
Is it hygienic to swim on your period?
During their period, most women pay close attention to their hygiene. Depending on your level of comfort, you may be wary of swimming at this time. However, it is entirely possible to go swimming on your periods.
Swimming pools, both indoor and outdoor, add a halogen to the water, either chlorine or bromine.
What are the effects of these chemicals? They kill the bacteria and other microbes that build up in a warm, wet environment where many people swim. The risk of contracting an infection while swimming in a pool is, thankfully, low in treated water. Some doctors advise against swimming in lakes or the ocean due to the increased risk of infection, as these bodies of water cannot be treated with a halogen.
If you use sanitary products, keep any used ones out of the water because they could endanger the health of other swimmers.
Will swimming worsen cramps?
Swimming appears to have the potential to aggravate cramps in your lower back and tummy. Instead, studies have shown that physical activity, such as swimming, can help take your mind off the pain and actually relieve it.
So, if you're still wondering, "Will swimming make my cramps worse?" here's your answer. The soothing lapping of the water over your body, as well as the buoyancy of the water, have a calming effect on your muscles. This can help to alleviate the pain and bloating that may be associated with your period.
Can you swim while wearing a tampon?
You certainly can! In fact, tampons are among the best sanitary products for going for a swim while on your period.
Insert the tampon before entering the water. This allows it to absorb menstrual blood rather than water.
When you get out of the water, remove the used tampon and replace it with a new one.
To reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome, change your tampon every eight hours.
Keep a supply of extra tampons on hand for when you want to get back into the water.
How to swim on your period without a tampon
Tampons are not the only item that can be used in the water. You can do more than just dip your toe in the water with the right sanitary products. You are welcome to jump right in!
Here are some items that will make you feel more at ease and confident in the water.
Menstrual cup
If you don't want to use tampons, you can use a menstrual cup, which is just as effective.
Menstrual cups are made of rubber or silicone, as opposed to cotton tampons. This means that the cup collects menstrual blood rather than absorbing it like a tampon.
Swimming on your periods with a cup is also more sanitary because it does not absorb any of the surrounding water.
On a lighter flow day, you can use one cup and change it every 12 hours. You can take breaks from the water and empty your cup on days when there is a heavy flow. If you use a reusable cup, make sure to thoroughly clean it before inserting it again.
To know more about menstrual cup, read this article.
Period pads for swimming
If menstrual cups aren't an option, you might be wondering how to swim without a tampon during your period.
Getting into the water with a pad is a little more difficult than with tampons or a menstrual cup. Pads are extremely absorbent and will become useless if they come into contact with water.
When disposable pads become wet, they can fall out from beneath your swimsuit.
A pad without wings will be the most discreet because it will not protrude from your clothes. Instead of getting your entire body wet, you could sit at the pool's edge with your feet dangling in the water. You can keep your pad dry by wading through the water if you're at the beach.
If you do decide to go swimming, wear dark-coloured shorts over your swim bottoms. This will make the pad less noticeable and will conceal any leakage.
Waterproof pants
Waterproof or leak-proof pants can provide an extra layer of protection if you're going to the beach during your period. These options are especially useful if you'd rather spend your time having fun than worrying about your sanitary products.
The outside of these pants is waterproof, so no water can get in and cause leaks. The elastic edges ensure a secure fit as well.
These pants have an absorbent gusset near the pelvis that not only absorbs but also dries quickly.
Some pants styles include a pad pocket. The snug fit and waterproofing keep the pad dry, allowing it to absorb only your flow and not the water.
Does your period stop when you’re in the water?
Your menstrual bleeding does not stop when you enter the water, but it also does not flow out at the same rate.
Why? This is due to the fact that the water exerts pressure on your vagina, which offsets the effect of gravity on your flow.
However, if you do something that exceeds the water's counterpressure, such as sneezing or coughing, some blood will enter the water.
Can I go to the beach on my period without wanting to swim?
Yes, you can adjust your activity level to your preferences. This varies from person to person depending on personal factors such as your flow, the time of year, the friends you're with, and so on. You can also relax and observe the waves or other people if you prefer. You can also wade through the water without actually getting wet.
If you intend to swim outside, remember to apply sunscreen. This is especially important if you have acne, as sunlight and periods can increase your chances of breakouts or aggravate existing acne.
How do Olympic swimmers manage their periods?
You may have wondered how Olympic swimmers deal with their menstrual flow while competing while cheering for them.
Many athletes who compete in competitive swimming during their periods use tampons and menstrual cups to control their flow.
Because of their rigorous exercise regimen, some athletes may not have regular periods. Others use birth control, which can alter their cycle and cause them to miss their periods.
Will sharks attack me?
Sharks can detect trace amounts of blood in the water. However, there is no evidence that people on their periods are more vulnerable to shark attacks.
When should I avoid swimming?
It is always your choice whether or not to go swimming on your periods — or at any other time. If you don't feel like doing it, you have every right to make the best decision for your body at the time.
It is best not to swim if you have symptoms such as a fever or feel otherwise ill. Staying at home to rest is always a good idea.