Smart Tips for Pool Days During Your Monthly Cycle

Urban myths abound when it comes to the idea of taking a dip on your period. Some say that your flow stops entirely in the pool, while others say the smell attracts sharks. Neither of these is exactly true, though they do hold some water. Though your flow might get held back due to water pressure, you don’t actually stop menstruating while submerged. Plus, while sharks can smell blood in large amounts, the odds of a Great White crashing your pool party are pretty slim.

The thing is, even if the myths aren’t true, having your period on a pool day can definitely make your life more complicated. There’s the threat of visible tampon strings, the telltale stains on your suit, or worse, leaving little trails in the water. While any leaks would be too diluted to create a hygiene issue, they can still be super embarrassing. Here are some simple tips and tricks for subtly managing that time of the month, even in a bikini.

1. Wear Period Swimwear

Period bathing suits look just like normal bathing suits, except they’re made to work, kind of like maxi pads. They come in all kinds of styles, including one-piece, two-piece, bikini, tankini, short, and skirt styles. A specially designed gusset in period swimwear absorbs menstrual flow, as well as small amounts of sweat and even light bladder leaks. They also come in different absorbencies, so you can choose the right kind depending on where you are in your cycle.

With period swimwear, it’s pretty much up to you to decide whether you want to wear them solo or with a backup method. If you’re prone to gushing or heavier period clots, a tampon, disc, or menstrual cup can work with your period swimsuit for best results. On the other hand, if you find insertables uncomfortable, full coverage period swimsuits (like boy shorts styles) could be the best choice. Either way, they’re a great  — and low-waste — alternative to other period products.

2. Use Insertables

Insertables have, for a long time, been the typical period product of choice for pool and beach days. This category includes products like tampons, pads, menstrual cups, menstrual discs, and (in some countries where legal) menstrual sponges. For a long time, an insertable was pretty much the only way to hold back your flow while swimming. The options were either free-bleeding into the water on light days or avoiding swimming on heavier days.

Reusable discs and menstrual cups are a great choice if sustainability is a high priority. Another advantage over tampons is that they don’t have strings, which can make their way out of your suit and become visible. The downside to all insertables is that they can be uncomfortable, especially if you have vaginismus or other conditions that make insertion painful. Fortunately, many brands now make smaller-fit options for teens and folks with narrower anatomy.

3. Try Shorts, Skorts, and Sarongs

While small leaks aren’t typically visible when you’re in the water, they can become obvious when you step out. On heavy days, or if you’re not 100% confident in your period protection, these can help hide any evidence. Many styles of bathing suits come with boy short bottoms, skorts, or a skirt as part of the set. You can also buy a separate sarong, scarf, or cover-up made for use in the water, out of the water, or both.

A key thing to keep in mind is color: dark shades like black and deep navy are usually the best choice for hiding leaks and stains. Red works too, but approach with caution when buying online, as some shades may be lighter than they appear on screen. A busy pattern is also a great choice, as small stains can often blend right in. It’s also a good idea to bring a heavy, dark-colored beach towel: you can sit on it or wrap it around your waist when all else fails.

4. Prep Ahead

Not all pool prep amounts to period protection or careful style choices; you can also take steps to plan ahead for easier period management. Do what you can to find out ahead of time if the bathroom is nearby in case you need to change or clean period products. Call the host or the venue — there’s no shame in explaining the situation and making sure you can prioritize your comfort. If it’s a public or hotel pool, snag chairs or chaise lounges that are close to the commode.

Another option, if you take oral contraceptive pills, is to plan ahead to try not to have a period at all. The hormones in combination pills can help you miss a period if you skip your placebo week and go straight to the next week of active pills. This also works with the birth control ring and certain other forms of hormonal birth control. It might be worth checking with your healthcare provider to make sure your method of birth control will work — and that it’s safe to do so.

Peace of Mind, Period

Pool days on your period can be stressful, but they don’t have to be that bad with the right products and a solid plan. It may take some practice to learn what works best for your body, but it won’t be long before you get the hang of it. Remember that the exercise you get from swimming can ease cramps, and a warm jacuzzi helps even more. If all else fails, blame the blood on a scraped knee or elbow, and ask a friend to throw you a towel.