Swimming on your period

Can you go swimming on your period without tampon?

Quick summary 📝

1️⃣ Swimming on your period isn’t impossible – you don’t have to miss out just because your period arrives

2️⃣ Water pressure slows your flow, so leaks are less likely, and swimming can help with cramps

3️⃣ With the right period products – like tampons, a menstrual cup, or period swimwear – you can swim with confidence

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Swimming on your period isn't impossible like you might worry it is.

If your period hits you mid-holiday, or you have a swimming class, it’s completely okay to get into the water 🌊

Let’s break down what happens when you get into water, products you can use and debunk some common myths 🩷

What happens when you get into the water?

When you step into water, the pressure around you increases 💧

You don’t really feel it, but it pushes slightly against your body, slowing period flow.

This doesn’t completely stop your period, but it reduces the chances of leaking 🤞

This means, that if you have a very light flow and you start your period unexpectedly in the water, it's unlikely it'll gush out.

However, leaks can still happen – especially if you "push", sneeze or cough, as this can briefly increase flow 🩸

💡 luna top tip: if you ever think you've leaked into the pool, swill your hand around in the water to disperse any potential blood

Is it dirty to swim on your period?

No, swimming on your period isn’t unclean in any way ✨ even if you don’t use period products.

👉 If you leak, the blood is mixed in with the water, making it barely noticeable

👉 Chlorine in pools disinfects the water, keeping it clean for everyone

Is it safe to swim on a period?

Yes, it’s completely safe to swim on your period. There’s no evidence that it attracts sharks, so no need to worry 🦈

Swimming can actually help with cramps, just like other low-impact exercises.

⚠️ Avoid swimming only if you’ve recently had a medical procedure through your vagina, like surgery, to reduce infection risk

What period products can be used?

If you choose to wear period products while swimming, there are a few options.

👉 Period swimwear: works like period underwear but is waterproof and designed for swimming

👉 Tampons: absorb blood inside your body, making them great for swimming – just tuck in the string so it’s not visible

👉 Menstrual cups: collects blood inside your body and are leak-proof when inserted correctly

Make sure to remove these once you're done with swimming for the day or no more than 8 hours for tampons ⏰

⚠️ Avoid pads and liners: they'll absorb the water, making them less effective. The sticky backing can also lose grip, causing it to fall out.

Your period shouldn’t stop you from swimming. It just may take a bit of trial and error to find a product that works for you.

If you’re unsure, test out different products at home first 🌊💙

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