It is just an urban legend that a woman should not go swimming while she is having her menstrual period. Lots of women, including lifeguards, Olympic swimmers, divers and aquatic biologists swim while menstruating. In fact, swimming can help provide relief from some of the irritating side effects of menstruation.
Benefits
Swimming during menstruation is more than just an effective way to exercise. According to "Shape" magazine, you can also notice a decrease in menstrual symptoms such as stress, fatigue and pain. It can also help you get a better night's sleep. The buoyancy of the water can also support your body and remove pressure from your back, which can be beneficial if you frequently suffer from back aches during menstruation.
Tips
To prevent an embarrassing situation, wear a tampon while swimming. Tampons are safe enough to be worn for up to eight hours -- some are even specifically designed for sports activity. If you do not feel comfortable with a tampon, you can also try wearing an over-the-counter reusable menstrual cup, which holds fluid rather than absorbing it. Your doctor can also fit you for a cervical cap or diaphragm to be worn while swimming.
Considerations
If you are afraid of somehow leaking or showing while swimming on your menstrual period, swim in a large body of water such as the ocean or lake instead of a pool. This way, any accidents are less likely to be noticed. If you prefer to wear a maxi pad instead, only wade in the water as far as you can. Be prepared -- carry extra clothing and sanitary products with you when swimming during your menstrual period just in case there are any accidents.
Warnings
Use caution when swimming with a tampon. Don't forget to change it about every six hours. If you don't, leakage or spotting can occur. In addition, harmful bacteria can grow on a tampon if it is worn too long. This bacteria can invade the blood stream and release dangerous toxins that can cause a dangerous illness called toxic shock syndrome. Seek medical attention if you develop a fever, dizziness or a rash that resembles a sunburn.
References
- KidzWorld: Dear Dish-It: Swimming With My Period
- Kotex: Exercising During Your Period
- Shape; Exercise and Your Menstrual Cycle: What Your Period Means for Your Workout Schedule; Dana Hudepohl
- Go Ask Alice!; Swimming When Menstruating -- Without Tampons?; April 28, 1995
- Always: Swimming and Your Period
- KidsHealth: Pads and Tampons
