hey luna, i’m really scared because i’m going on holiday soon and i’m scared my period will start when i’m on holiday. i am nervous because what if i go swimming or i am on the beach in a swimsuit/bikini? i dont use or have tampons, menstural cups or period swimwear that i could use if i do. i only use pads and i cant wear pads whilst swimming or when i’m in swimwear!! (my mum doesn’t buy or use tampons i dont think bc she hasnt gave me any yet and i dont really wanna ask bc i dont often talk to her about periods bc i find it embarrassing) even if i’m bleeding really lightly i cant swim bc my bikini is green and not black. then what if my family ask why im not swimming im not telling them im on my period. i dont even know if i will get it on holiday im just overthinking if my period comes early. ive literally been praying i dont get it. i’m really stressing out, please help!!!
Heyy - thanks for asking luna 💛 First things first, please take a deep breath and know that everything is going to be ok 🫶
It's totally normal to be worried about getting your period on holiday, but it's also really unlikely that it will ruin your holiday. If you do get your period, you can still go swimming and to the beach - you just need to use a tampon, a menstrual cup, or period swimwear instead of a pad. luna understands that you might feel a bit embarrassed to ask about this - but it really is nothing to be embarrassed about! Your mum will want to help you and once you've asked her, it will feel like a weight off your shoulders 🙌
If you're not sure how to use a tampon, you can ask a trusted adult for help, or you can have a look at luna's advice in the app about how to use them. It might take a few tries to get the hang of it, but it's really not as scary as it seems. There's also info about menstrual cups in the app too.
Period swimwear is also a great option too - they are pretty much the same as period underwear but are waterproof and made to be worn whilst swimming 🏊🏼♀️
There's a whole article and video about swimming on your period in the luna app too, which should be helpful to read or watch your way through.
Sending luna love and hope you have an amazing holiday 🌅
How we answered this question:
luna's team of experts comprises GPs, Dermatologists, Safeguarding Leads and Junior Doctors as well as Medical Students with specialised interests in paediatric care, mental health and gynaecology. Questions are answered and reviewed by this team.
Sources:
Your Period Doesn’t Stop in Water — Here’s How to Handle It
https://www.healthline.com/health/does-your-period-stop-in-water#what-to-use
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