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It's a question that might cross your mind as you pack for a beach holiday or get ready for swim practise: "Can I swim during my period?" The idea of swimming during menstruation can be daunting due to concerns about leakage, hygiene, and whether it's even sanitary to dive into the water. Let's clear up some myths and lay down the facts so that you can hit the water with confidence anytime.

Understanding Menstruation and Swimming

Firstly, let's understand what's happening in your body during your period. Each month, your body prepares for a potential pregnancy. If there is no pregnancy, the lining of the uterus sheds through the vagina, which is what you experience as your period. The amount and flow of menstruation can vary from person to person.

When considering swimming, many are concerned about bleeding in the water. However, the truth is, swimming during your period is entirely feasible and medically okay, as long as you feel comfortable. In fact, it can be quite beneficial.

The Benefits of Swimming During Your Period

Exercise, including swimming, is recommended during your period as it can help alleviate cramps and improve your mood. This is due to the endorphins, or "feel-good" hormones, released during physical activity. Swimming is particularly effective because it's a low-impact exercise that doesn't strain your menstrual symptoms.

Additionally, being in the water can have a therapeutic effect, helping to relieve swelling and bloating that often accompanies menstruation. The buoyancy in water offers a feeling of lightness and can be a comforting break from any menstrual discomfort you might be experiencing.

Dealing with Concerns About Leakage and Hygiene

The main concern for many is the risk of leaking menstrual blood in the pool or ocean. Here are some practical strategies to manage your period while swimming:

• Use a Tampon or Menstrual Cup: These products are designed to collect your menstrual flow internally. A tampon or menstrual cup can hold the menstrual blood and prevent it from leaking out. Make sure it's properly inserted before you get into the water.
• Try a Menstrual Disc: Similar to menstrual cups, discs sit deeper in the vaginal canal and collect rather than absorb blood, offering up to 12 hours of protection without the risk of leakage.
• Consider Period Swimwear: This is a relatively new innovation that looks like regular swimwear but has a hidden, leak-proof lining that helps absorb menstrual blood. While not as absorbent as a tampon or cup, it can be a good backup measure.
• Use a Pad as a Last Resort: While not recommended because they can absorb water and swell, if you're in a pinch or if you wear them for comfort reasons, opt for a waterproof or water-resistant variant.

Tips for a Comfortable Swim

To make your swimming experience pleasant while on your period, consider the following tips:

• Change your menstrual product right before and after swimming: This minimises the risk of any leakage and maintains hygiene.
• Choose dark-coloured swimwear: This can help camouflage any small leaks that might occur.
• Plan short swim sessions: If you are worried about leakage, keep your swim sessions short, especially on heavy flow days.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is important when you're on your period and especially when engaging in exercise like swimming.
• Listen to your body: If you don't feel up to swimming, that's perfectly okay. It's important to do what feels right for your body.

Real-Life Impact on a Young Person

For young people, especially teenagers who are still getting used to their menstrual cycle, the thought of swimming during your period can be particularly worrying. Concerns about public embarrassment or disrupting a routine like swim practise or beach outings with friends are valid and natural feelings.

However, with the right menstrual products and preparation, you can continue with all your activities as planned. Understanding your body's needs and timing can empower you to manage your menstrual cycle proactively, without missing out on the joys of swimming. Overcoming these hurdles not only boosts confidence but also promotes a healthier lifestyle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, swimming during your period is not only possible, it's also beneficial. With the correct menstrual products and proper preparation, you can enjoy this healthy, enjoyable activity all month long. So, the next time your period coincides with a swim day, remember these tips and dive right in!

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

• Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
• The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
• Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.