4 ways to go swimming during your period | Introducing menstrual products other than tampons

"My period and my swimming plans overlap... is it okay for me to go in?"

If your period coincides with a day you've been looking forward to going to the pool, you may be worried about whether it's okay to go in.
Although you want to enjoy it, you may be hesitant when you think about worrying about menstrual blood and the impact it may have on your health.
In fact, it is possible to go into the pool even during your period as long as you are in good health.

However, if you enter the water as is, there is a risk that your menstrual blood will leak into the water, so appropriate precautions are necessary.

Here are five ways to enjoy the pool on your period, including options other than tampons.

If you read to the end, you will learn specific measures to take so that you can safely go into the pool even on your period.
If you want to go swimming in the pool even during your period, please refer to this information.

4 Ways to Go Poolside on Your Period | Menstrual Products Other Than Tampons

There are four ways to go into the pool even if you are on your period:

• Using a menstrual cup

• Try a menstrual disc

• Putting in a tampon

• Wear absorbent swim shorts

If you know other methods besides inserting sanitary products into the vagina, you can take immediate action.

1. Use a menstrual cup

Menstrual cups are inserted into the vagina to catch menstrual blood, so there is less risk of leakage even in water.

Additionally, the materials used in menstrual cups, such as medical-grade silicone and medical-grade TPE, have water-repellent properties. [1]

For those considering using tampons, this will help alleviate concerns about water being absorbed through the string.

However, using a menstrual cup properly requires some practice.
It's a good idea to get ready early if you plan to go into the pool.

2. Try a menstrual disc

Menstrual discs are another type of sanitary product that can be used in the pool.
Menstrual discs are placed deep inside the vagina, so if you wear them properly, they won't slip out even if you move.
If you wear it properly and securely, it will reduce menstrual leakage while swimming.

However, since it is placed further back in the vagina than a menstrual cup, it can take more time to get used to.
As with menstrual cups, until you get used to using one, practice in an environment that's easy to clean, such as your bathroom or toilet at home.

3. Insert a tampon

Tampons, like menstrual cups and menstrual discs, are menstrual products inserted into the vagina and may help prevent menstrual leakage while swimming.

Some people are concerned about the string used to remove the bag.

If you wear it inside your swimsuit, it will be hard for others to notice.
Please never cut the string just because it bothers you, as this will make it impossible to remove the tampon.

Tampon strings and absorbent bodies (the parts that absorb menstrual blood) are made from fibers such as cotton wool. [2]

Cotton wool is absorbent and may absorb pool water through the string, making it an easy breeding ground for bacteria if used for a long period of time.

It's best to remove it as soon as possible after you leave the pool.

4. Wear absorbent swim shorts

There are also absorbent underwear shorts that can be worn under your swimsuit, which can make it easier to use the pool during your period.
If your period is just beginning or ending, one pair of absorbent shorts may be enough.

Even if you have a certain amount of menstrual flow, you can reduce the risk of leakage by using a menstrual cup or tampons in combination.

Many of them can be washed and reused, so having one will be useful for leisure activities during the season.

Also worth reading: Is there a way to end your period quickly? What to do if you have an important appointment

Consider using birth control pills to avoid swimming during your period

If you have a set date for swimming in the pool, you may be able to avoid your period by taking low-dose birth control pills. [3]

However, if your period is approaching, it may be difficult to adjust your schedule or you may experience side effects, so be sure to see your doctor well in advance so you can deal with any issues that may arise.

Also, please note that the use of low-dose birth control pills for purposes other than dysmenorrhea is not covered by insurance. [3]

Manners to follow when swimming in the pool during your period

Pools are used by many people, so basic etiquette must be observed.

The things to pay particular attention to are the following:

• Check the facility's terms and conditions

• Take measures to prevent menstrual leakage

• Wash your body thoroughly before entering the pool

Please use the facility with the correct knowledge so that those around you can also enjoy themselves.

Check the facility's terms and conditions

Some pools even prohibit use during menstruation.

You can use a menstrual cup or tampons to swim in the pool, but don't assume it's okay; make sure to check the facility's rules beforehand.

Take measures to prevent menstrual leakage

To enjoy swimming safely in the pool, be sure to prepare properly to prevent menstrual blood leaks.

Menstrual cups and tampons collect menstrual blood inside the vagina, so if used correctly, there is less risk of leakage.

However, if it is not attached properly, it may leak, so it is recommended that you practice several times beforehand.
You can also feel even more secure by wearing absorbent pool shorts.

Avoid using it for the first time on the day you go to the pool; choose something you're familiar with.

Wash your body thoroughly before entering the pool

If you go into a pool with menstrual blood on your body, it may cause discomfort to those around you.

Before entering the pool, be sure to wash your body thoroughly in the shower.

In particular, it is important to check the inner thighs and groin areas carefully, as these are easy to overlook.

Why using a menstrual cup in the pool is recommended during your period

Here are some reasons why a menstrual cup is a good choice for swimming during your period:

• Does not absorb water

• Less worry about menstrual leakage

• No need to worry about tampon strings

• You can act calmly without worrying about menstrual leakage.

• Choose your favorite swimsuit

Let's take a look at the benefits of menstrual cups.

Does not absorb water

Menstrual cups are made from medical-grade silicone and medical-grade TPE, so they don't absorb water through the strings like tampons do.

This means you don't have to immediately replace your menstrual cup after getting out of the pool, and you can use it at your own pace.

In addition, some products can be used continuously for up to 12 hours, so you can use them for long periods of time without worry.

Less worry about menstrual leakage

Because menstrual cups collect menstrual blood inside the vagina, there is less risk of menstrual blood leaking even in the pool.

If you have a heavy flow and are worried about leaking, discarding it just before entering the pool will prevent leaking in a short period of time.

Also worth reading: How many ml of blood loss is there per day on average during menstruation? Two reasons why menstrual blood flow increases or decreases

No need to worry about tampon strings

When using tampons, some people worry about the strings sticking out of their swimsuits, preventing them from enjoying them to the fullest.
However, you cannot cut the string as this would make it difficult to replace.

With a menstrual cup, the stem that you use to remove it fits inside the vagina, so you don't have to worry about it being visible through your swimsuit, and you can wear it without worrying about other people seeing you.

You can act calmly without worrying about menstrual leakage.

Menstrual leakage is more likely to occur before entering a pool or after coming out than inside the pool tank. [3]

With a menstrual cup, menstrual blood collects inside the cup inside the vagina, so there's less risk of staining the poolside or towels.
The advantage is that you can act calmly without worrying about menstrual leakage.

Choose your favorite swimsuit

If you wear tampon strings or absorbent shorts, you need to choose a design that won't show up under your swimsuit.
With a menstrual cup, there are no strings sticking out of the vagina, so you can wear whatever swimsuit you like.

Also worth reading: My period overlapped with my sauna, hot springs, swimming pool, and other marine activities! Can I use a menstrual cup for summer leisure activities?

Frequently asked questions about swimming pools during menstruation

We answer some common questions about swimming in the pool during your period.
Make sure you have the right information so you can enjoy your pool to the fullest.

Will I feel unwell if I go swimming in a pool during my period?

If you have severe menstrual pain, heavy menstrual flow, or symptoms of anemia, it is best to avoid drowning in water as there is a possibility that your physical condition may become unstable.

It is important to carefully assess the condition of your body and enjoy it within your limits.

When I go into the pool on my period, can I wear a sanitary napkin?

If you go into a pool with your pad on, the pad will fill up with water, increasing the risk of leaking as your period blood won't be absorbed.

When swimming in a pool, it is a good idea to use vaginal feminine hygiene products such as menstrual cups or tampons, or absorbent underwear.

summary

It is possible to go into the pool even during your period as long as you take the appropriate precautions.

Pads will absorb water, so it's recommended to use a menstrual cup or tampons.

However, some facilities may prohibit use during menstruation, so be sure to check the terms of use beforehand.

To enjoy the pool without any worries, it is important to take appropriate precautions, such as washing thoroughly to ensure that no menstrual blood remains on your body and taking measures to prevent menstrual blood leakage.

References

[1] Voluntary Standards for Menstrual Cups Prepared by the Japan Sanitary Materials Industry Association (Administrative Notice of March 23, 2023) | Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
[2] Voluntary Standards for Sanitary Tampons (March 30, 2007, Yakushokuki Notification No. 330010) | Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
[3] Q&A on menstruation for female swimmers | Japan Swimming Federation