Ladies, it’s time to bust a common myth. Contrary to popular belief, swimming during your period is not only possible but totally safe and liberating (no, you won’t attract sharks). So, you can forget about bailing on pool parties or missing out on beach days.
But how, you ask? That’s where period cups and period discs come in. These innovative and eco-friendly alternatives to pads and tampons are the secret weapons of many menstruators worldwide. They’re reusable, environmentally-kind, and — most importantly — perfect for swimming!
So, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a casual beach bum, you no longer have to let bulky pads or soggy tampons weigh you down. With menstrual cups and menstrual discs, you can dive into swimming pools with confidence. Let’s find out more!
Benefits of Swimming During Periods
Physical Perks
Have you ever noticed how a good swim can ease those period cramps and bloating? That’s because swimming is like a gentle massage for your muscles, providing relief and relaxation when you need it most. Plus, the full-body workout you get from swimming can help keep you feeling strong and energised throughout your period. Not to mention the body releases endorphins during movement that’ll help ease period pain and menstrual cramps.
Mental Perks
Imagine yourself gliding through the water, leaving stress and worries in your wake. That’s the magic of swimming. Time spent in a swimming pool is a chance to escape the chaos of daily life and find peace in the rhythm of your strokes. And hey, who couldn’t use a little mental reset now and then, especially at that time of the month?
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the idea that periods and swimming don’t mix. But here’s the truth: there’s no reason your period should stop you from enjoying the water. It’s a natural part of life, and it shouldn’t put a damper on your fun. So, next time Aunt Flo comes to town, grab your period swimwear or products and dive right in. Whether you’re doing laps or simply floating around, the water might just be the prescription your body needs.
Menstrual Products for Swimming
Let’s take a quick tour of the traditional players in the menstrual product game before we dive into the innovative world of period cups and discs.
Traditional Options
Ah, the classics — pads and tampons. These trusty companions have been the go-to choice for many menstruators for years. Pads absorb menstrual blood externally, while tampons are inserted into the vagina to absorb period blood internally. They’ve served us well, but it’s time to shake things up. Nowadays, there are more comfortable ways to enjoy swimming with your menstrual flow.
Enter: Hello Period Cups and Discs
What are the benefits of using menstrual cups and discs when swimming? Let’s break it down.
All-day, Leak-proof Protection: Say goodbye to constant bathroom breaks and anxiety-inducing leaks. Menstrual cups and discs offer a whopping 8-12 hours of protection by collecting menstrual blood instead of absorbing it. Cups create a seal via suction, while discs sit comfortably in the vaginal fornix, providing a barrier between you and the water.
More Capacity, Less Hassle: Need we say more? These marvels can hold up to 50 ml of menstrual blood, which is five times more than pads or tampons! That means fewer changes throughout the day and more time to enjoy the water, whether you have a light or heavy flow.
Discreet and Comfortable: No more worries about pad wings peeking out or tampon strings making an appearance. Cups and discs are worn internally, offering discreet protection that won’t cramp your style.
More Time in the Water: Who wants to waste precious swim time on restroom runs? With cups and discs, you’ll spend less time worrying about leaks and more time diving into your favourite water activities. Plus, their high capacity means fewer trips to the bathroom, leaving you free to make a splash all day long!
So, whether you’re hitting the beach, lounging by the pool, or conquering the waves, Hello Period cups and discs have you sorted.
How to Swim with Period Cups and Discs
Ready to take the plunge into the world of period cups and discs? Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to use menstrual cups and discs, even while swimming on your period.
Using Period Cups
Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Rinse the cup with water to ensure it’s clean and ready to use.
Fold and Insert: Fold the cup into a C-shape or punch-down fold. Relax your muscles and insert the folded cup into your vagina, aiming towards your tailbone. Once inside, the cup will pop open and form a seal against the vaginal walls.
Check the Seal: Run your finger around the base of the cup to ensure it’s completely open and sealed. You can also gently tug on the stem to make sure it’s secure.
Time to Swim: With the cup in place, ready to collect blood, you’re ready to hit the water! Whether you’re doing laps or lounging by the pool, the cup will stay in place, providing leak-proof protection.
Removing the Menstrual Cup: After swimming, relax your muscles and gently pinch the base of the cup to break the seal. Slowly wiggle the cup from side to side while pulling it downward. Empty the contents into the toilet, rinse the cup with water, and reinsert if needed.
Using Menstrual Discs
Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly and rinse the disc with water to ensure cleanliness.
Fold and Insert: Squeeze the sides of the disc together to create an oval shape. Relax your muscles and insert the folded disc into your vagina, aiming towards your lower back. Once inside, tuck the front edge of the disc under your pubic bone.
Check Position: Run your finger along the rim of the disc to ensure it’s positioned properly under your pubic bone. You should feel comfortable and secure.
Enjoy Your Swim: With the disc in place, you’re free to enjoy the water without worrying about leaks. Whether you’re surfing, diving, or simply floating, the disc will stay put and keep you protected.
Removing the Disc: After swimming, relax your muscles and hook your finger under the front edge of the disc. Gently pull downward and forward to remove the disc. Empty the contents into the toilet, rinse the disc with water, and reinsert if needed.
Tips for Swimming with Period Cups and Discs
Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure a comfortable and worry-free experience:
Find Your Perfect Fit: Choosing the right size is key to a comfortable swimming experience. Period cups and discs come in various sizes to accommodate different flow levels and body types. Take the time to research and select the size that suits you best.
Ensure Proper Positioning: Proper positioning is essential for leak-proof protection. Before diving in, double-check that your cup or disc is inserted correctly and forms a seal against the vaginal walls. Run your finger around the base to confirm a secure fit.
Practice Makes Perfect: If you’re new to using cups or discs, don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get the hang of it. Practice inserting and removing them at home before hitting the pool. The more familiar you become with the process, the easier it will be.
Relax and Unwind: Swimming is a great way to relax and unwind, especially during your period. Take a few deep breaths, relax your muscles, and focus on enjoying the sensation of being in the water. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be to insert and wear your cup or disc comfortably.
Stay Hygienic: Maintaining good hygiene practices is essential, especially when using internal menstrual products and coming into contact with bodily fluids. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling your cup or disc. Rinse them with water before reinserting them to ensure cleanliness.
Embrace Comfort: If you experience any discomfort while swimming with a cup or disc, don’t hesitate to make adjustments. Experiment with different folds, positions, or even try a different size until you find what works best for you. Hot tip: we love Hello Period cups and discs.
Ready to uplevel your period game while swimming with period cups and discs? Discover a range of comfortable, leak-proof, and eco-friendly menstrual products designed to keep you swimming with Hello Period. Find your perfect fit today!
