Key Takeaways:
- Why You Can't Swim In Period Underwear: Period underwear typically isn’t suitable for swimming, as it can become saturated with water and lead to discomfort and potential leaks. We recommend using period-safe swimwear instead.
- Swimming During Your Period: Since water pressure can slow menstrual flow until you get out of the water, swimming during your period is generally safe.
- Safe Alternatives To Tampons When Swimming: For swimming on your period, opt for internal options like menstrual cups or discs, which provide leak protection.
We’ve all been there: packing for a beach day or slipping into a swimsuit only to wonder, “Can you swim in period underwear?” The truth is, periods don’t take a vacation. But that doesn’t mean you should have to choose between comfort and participating in the activities that bring you joy. Asking how your body works, and what products really support it, is part of taking ownership of your monthly flow.
Thankfully, we’re living in a time with better menstrual care than ever before. At Saalt, we believe everyone deserves sustainable options that make your routine simple, not stressful. Our mission is to help everyone who has a period live without hesitation.
In this guide, we’ll explain what happens when period underwear meets water, when to reach for alternatives like a menstrual cup or period disc, and how to stay comfortable through every activity.
Is It Safe To Swim During Your Period?
Menstrual fluid is a natural part of how our bodies work; being in water doesn’t change that. However, water pressure can temporarily slow menstrual flow while you’re submerged, which can make swimming feel more manageable.
Health Considerations
If you’re worried about hygiene, you don’t need to be, especially in well-maintained pools. The water is treated with chlorine, which acts as the first line of defense against germs. While there’s a higher risk of unsafe bacteria in natural water sources like the ocean, a lot of the time, discomfort or itchiness comes from wearing a wet bathing suit for too long. It’s always a smart idea to rinse off and change into dry clothes after you swim to help prevent irritation.
Period Cramps
Exercise, including swimming, can actually help ease cramps for some people. Gentle movement and the soothing effect of water can work together to take your mind off the pain and promote relaxation. It’s a low-impact way to stay active and support circulation while your body is doing its monthly work.
What About Sharks?
It’s a common myth that swimming in the ocean on your period attracts sharks. However, data from the International Shark Attack File shows that menstruating swimmers aren’t at increased risk. Plus, Marie Levine, founder and executive director of the Shark Research Institute, notes that she has been diving for decades, and even while she was on her period, hammerhead sharks weren’t interested in getting near her. In short, you should be able to scuba dive, surf, or swim freely without worries.
Bottom Line
Your period doesn’t have to keep you dry on the sidelines. All you have to do is choose a care method that helps you feel confident. A menstrual cup or disc is great for water activities, and once you're back on dry land, you can switch into a comfy pair of period underwear. Listen to your body and choose the option that best supports you in and out of the water.
Are Period Underwear Waterproof?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a dedicated type of period underwear for swimming. The patented gusset in your favorite pair of Saalt Wear is built to lock in moisture and keep you dry on land, but once you dive into a pool or ocean, those same layers can’t tell the difference between bodily fluids and water.
Days And Routines That Call For Period Underwear
Period underwear truly shines in your day-to-day life. On days when cramps, fatigue, or mood swings show up unannounced, cotton period underwear gives you all-day comfort you don’t have to think twice about. Meanwhile, our seamless period underwear moves with you through everything. Made with breathable, buttery soft fabrics, it offers reliable coverage without bulk or visible panty lines, so you can focus on your day instead of your flow.
From workout underwear that flexes with your schedule to bladder leak underwear made for vivacious sneezes or belly laughs, Saalt styles help you feel supported through every moment. They’re a sustainable alternative to single-use pads or liners that feel just like your go-to pair, only smarter.
What Happens When You Try Swimming With Period Underwear
While period underwear is perfect for daily life, it isn’t meant for the pool. Traditional swimwear is designed to repel water and dry fast, while period underwear is the opposite: It’s supposed to absorb and hold. When fully submerged, the sponge-like core tends to soak up water instead of protecting you from leaks. If the gusset is saturated, your period swim underwear is unable to do its job, resulting in that heavy feeling nobody wants. Beyond discomfort, sitting in wet fabric for too long can increase friction and trap moisture, which are conditions that aren’t ideal for vaginal health.
The Better Option: Period Swimwear
If you’re looking for reliable protection, period-friendly swim bottoms are the way to go. Period swimwear is specially designed for water, featuring water-repellant outer fabrics and quick-drying materials that stay sleek and comfortable underwater. These styles are made for light flow or spotting, offering subtle backup without weighing you down. That means you can enjoy pool days or hot tub soaks without worrying about stains.
Internal Alternatives To Tampons
For heavier flow, try pairing period swim bottoms with a menstrual cup or disc. Cups and discs collect (rather than absorb) menstrual fluid, so they remain effective even in water. Before you swim, empty your cup or disc and make sure it’s placed properly. The swim bottoms can then act as an extra layer of insurance.
A Little Preparation Goes A Long Way
Period underwear and period swimwear are designed for different settings, but both empower you to move freely and confidently. For additional peace of mind, go for darker swimsuit colors and snug fits to keep everything in place. You could also pack a small change kit with a spare bottom, wet bag, and Saalt Wipes for quick refreshes. After you take a dip, rinse your period swimwear promptly and hang dry. With a little prep, you can enjoy every swim session without worrying about tampon strings or surprise leaks.
Make The Switch
Managing your period doesn’t have to mean missing out. At Saalt, our mission is to help people live freely at the beach, by the pool, or anywhere life takes you. Our leakproof period underwear is designed for uncompromising performance, flexibility, and sustainability, using stretchy and soft materials that care for you and the planet.
While period underwear is ideal for heavy days, the fabric alone can’t prevent leaks in water. That’s where internal options like menstrual discs and cups come in. The goal isn’t to limit what you can do; it’s to help you choose the right tools for every moment. By embracing reusable care and normalizing honest conversations around menstruation, we can redefine what period care looks and feels like.
Read More
- The Difference Between Saalt Soft and Regular Cups
- How Often Should You Change Period Underwear? Hygiene Guide
- Can I Swim on My Period Without a Tampon? Tips & Alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions About Swimming In Period Underwear
Does period underwear work underwater?
No, standard period underwear isn’t designed to work underwater. While it’s fantastic for everyday leaks and spotting, its absorbent layers can’t distinguish between menstrual flow and pool or ocean water once fully submerged. When saturated, it loses its ability to lock in leaks. For proper leak protection while swimming, a period-friendly swimsuit or an internal product like a period cup or menstrual disc is your best bet.
Is period swimwear different from regular period underwear?
Absolutely. Period swimwear is engineered specifically for the demands of swimming. It features water-repellent fabrics and a unique construction that dries quickly while preventing leaks. Regular period underwear focuses on breathability and all-day comfort outside the water, so it won't provide the same level of protection when submerged. If you love pool days or beach trips, dedicated swimwear or internal period care options are your best matches for leak protection and ease of movement.
Will chlorine damage period underwear?
Chlorine can be tough on fabrics in general. While our Saalt Wear is made with high-performance, durable materials, repeated exposure to chlorinated pools can shorten the life of any garment, period underwear included. Rinse them in cool water immediately after use, and always follow the care instructions to ensure they last as long as possible. If you’re a frequent swimmer, consider opting for period swimwear or an internal product like a period cup or disc for better longevity and comfort.
Will period blood leak out while swimming?
It depends on what you're wearing. Standard period underwear may not fully contain leaks once submerged, because water will saturate the absorbent gusset. Instead, specialized period swimwear and reusable menstrual cups or discs are more effective options for people who want reliable protection in the water. Take the guesswork out of swimming during your period, and choose products designed to stand up to pool days.
Can you use period underwear at the beach?
Standard period underwear might be able to handle splashes but not full immersion, since it’s built to absorb, not repel, fluids. It can be worn for lounging or walking on the boardwalk, but its performance will drop if you wear it to swim. For beach days that include time in the waves, period swimwear or a menstrual cup/disc is your best bet for protection and peace of mind.
Do you need a pad or a tampon when swimming?
Pads are a no-go in the water. They’ll absorb pool or ocean water instead of menstrual fluid, making them uncomfortable and ineffective. For leak protection while swimming, tampons, menstrual cups, period discs, or period swimwear offer more practical solutions.
