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!!!
Thanks so much for sending this in – you’ve explained everything so clearly, and these feelings are completely valid 💛
Lots of people get nervous about their period showing up on holiday, especially when swimming is involved.
Here’s the good news: having your period on holiday doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying time in the water, it just takes a little planning and support 🏝
🩸 Periods don’t stop you swimming: you can absolutely swim on your period – with the right product (like a tampon, menstrual cup or period swimwear) no one will even notice
💧 Water pressure slows flow: when you're in water, the pressure around your body gently slows your period, which lowers the risk of leaking without a period product – especially if your flow is light
👙 If you’re not ready for tampons yet: that’s okay – you can still enjoy the beach in other ways like relaxing on a towel or paddling
🩲 You can wear a pad before and after swimming: if you’re not using tampons or period swimwear, you can wear a pad on the way to the pool or beach and then put on a fresh one right after you get out of the water – this can help you feel more protected and in control, even if you’re not swimming for long
💬 Talking to your mum might feel awkward but can help a lot: you could try saying something like, “I’m a bit worried about my period while we’re on holiday, could we maybe look at other products like period swimwear?”
🧠 It might not happen at all: sometimes the worry builds up even if your period doesn’t arrive – but even just having a backup plan (like bringing pads, spare underwear, and a change of clothes) can help you feel more in control
✨ Period leaks aren’t dirty: if you’re worried about hygiene, well – swimming while on your period is totally clean; pools have chlorine, and any tiny leak would likely mix into the water anyway and not be noticeable
If you're ever unsure, it can help to test out products like period swimwear at home before your trip to see what works best for you 🌊
Hope this reassures you and 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.
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