Female Health | shropshire-asa

Supporting our swimmers. period.

42% of girls don’t do sport when they’re on their period *
Statistic published by The Well HQ 2024

Periods are a natural, normal, healthy part of life. They’re not something to be ashamed of, and they shouldn’t get in the ways of playing sports – especially swimming! Shropshire ASA aims to provide the best support for our clubs and their menstruating swimmers, ensuring all our athletes can remain happy and healthy in their sport.

Below is a selection of information and resources we’d like to share with our athletes and community to help with managing periods whilst training and competing.

Can you swim on your period?

Yes! You can absolutely swim while on your period. Water pressure can temporarily slow the flow, but it doesn’t completely stop it. The main concerns are preventing leaks, maintaining comfort, and feeling confident.

Best products for swimming on your period

Everybody and every period is different and there are plenty of options to help keep you swimming throughout your cycle.

Period-specific swimwear

Specially designed swimwear with built-in absorbent lining and leak-proof technology.
Best for light to moderate flow or as backup protection with a tampon or cup.
Available in various styles (bikinis, one-pieces, high-waisted bottoms).
Great for teens or anyone uncomfortable with using internal products.

Did you know?A specific period swim costume or period bikini briefs can be worn during competitions held under Swim England Laws and Regulations. This includes all unlicensed and licensed swimming competitions, including Swim England national competitions across both age group and Masters Swimming.

Swimwear whilst on your period

Choose dark-coloured swimsuits: Hide potential leaks better than light colours.
High-waisted swim bottoms: Provide extra coverage and can hold period swimwear liners.
Built-in period swimwear: Brands like Modibodi, Funkita, Ruby Love, and Knix offer stylish and discreet leak-proof swimwear.

Tampons

One of the most popular options for swimming.
They sit inside the vagina, absorbing menstrual flow and preventing leaks.
Choose a tampon with the appropriate absorbency for your flow (light, regular, or super).
Make sure to change it soon after swimming, as it may absorb some water, making it less effective.

Menstrual cups

A reusable, silicone or rubber cup inserted into the vagina.
It creates a seal and collects (rather than absorbs) blood.
Menstrual cups are leak-proof when inserted properly and can be worn for up to 12 hours.
They are eco-friendly and cost-effective over time.

Menstrual discs

Similar to a cup but flatter and flexible.
Sits at the base of the cervix and holds more fluid than a tampon.
Less likely to cause leaks while swimming and can be worn for up to 12 hours.

Sanitary towels/pads
Traditional pads and panty liners are not suitable for swimming, as they will become waterlogged and ineffective.

Tips for Swimming Comfortably on Your Period

Change your product before and after swimming to prevent leaks.
Pack extra products in case you need to change.
Rinse off after swimming to avoid any irritation from chlorine or saltwater mixing with menstrual blood.
Stay hydrated and listen to your body – swimming can help relieve cramps and boost your mood.

Period Pack Ideas

It’s a great idea to keep a period pack ready to grab for swim training or events. A well-prepared period pack for swimmers ensures you can enjoy the water without stress.

If you forget your period products or your period arrives unexpectantly, please don’t worry. To support our swimmers free period products are available at all our training sessions and hosted competitions – our female coaches and team managers are ready to help.

Here’s some period pack ideas for your swim bag:

Period Protection Products

Tampons: Pack a variety of absorbencies (light, regular, super) to match your flow. Compact or sport tampons are easy to carry and designed for active wear.
Menstrual Cup or Disc: If you prefer reusable options, include a small pouch for your cup/disc and cleansing wipes.
Period Swimwear: Consider carrying an extra pair of leak-proof swim bottoms or a full suit. They can be worn alone for light flow days or as backup with a tampon or cup.
Back-up Pantyliners or Pads: For after swimming, in case you need extra protection once you’re out of the water.

Hygiene and Cleaning Essentials

Wipes: pH-balanced intimate wipes for cleaning up before and after swimming.
Hand sanitizer: For cleaning your hands before changing products, especially if bathrooms are not nearby.
Small wet bag: For storing used menstrual products or period swimwear if you need to change.

Comfort and Self-Care

Pain relief: If you’re prone to cramps, include ibuprofen, paracetamol, or a small heat patch.
Water bottle: Staying hydrated helps reduce bloating and cramping.
Snacks: A small energy bar or fruit to keep your energy up, especially during long swim sessions.

Storage and Organization

Waterproof pouch or bag: Use a small, waterproof zippered pouch to keep everything organized and dry. Silicone or reusable wet bags work well.
Extra swimsuit and underwear: In case you need a fresh change after swimming.

Recommended Period Swimwear Brands

Modibodi: Leak-proof swimwear with built-in absorbent lining. Great for light to moderate flow.
Knix: Stylish and reliable period swimwear, available in various styles.
Ruby Love: Offers swim bottoms and one-pieces with leak-proof protection.
Thinx: Known for its period underwear, Thinx also offers swimwear with discreet built-in protection.

Further resources

We really hope the information collated on this page is helpful and supports all our swimmers to be happy and healthy in their sport. The links below are to further information we thought might be helpful:

Swim England – Information for Female aquatic athletes on managing your period – Swim England Competitive Swimming Hub

GB Aquatics and Hannah Miley
Hannah helping push period conversation in sport | Aquatics GB (britishswimming.org)

Propulsion Swimming Podcast – Women’s health Q&A with Olympian Hannah Miley https://youtu.be/_EhOgvZ1gtA