Summer’s here, and as the warmer month’s and festive season approach a lot of people are going to want to cool off with a swim! Having your period in the summer heat is the worst especially when you want to swim but because you’re menstruating you’re hesitant or scared. But, if you are REALLY keen to swim there are reliable menstrual products you can use that will collect your blood while swimming!

If you’re going to swim in the ocean and are afraid of attracting sharks, you’ll be happy to know that it’s a myth. There’s no scientific evidence to support that being on your period will attract sharks. Also, there’s nothing wrong or unhygienic about swimming while on your period. Period blood is not dirty, dangerous or contaminated in any way. Here are three things to keep in mind when going for a swim while menstruating:

1) Make sure you’re wearing a tampon or menstrual cup

Pads and pantyliners are no-no’s when it comes to swimming. They’re not made to be submerged in bodies of water, they’ll absorb the water and loosen. Instead, tampons and menstrual cups are best because they’re inserted into the vagina and are made to stay in place until they’re taken out. This means you can still enjoy a swim without having to worry about leaks and whether or not it will stay in place no matter how active you are! Our organic tampons come in three absorbencies; regular, super and super plus. They’re not only safe for you, but safe for the environment too! However, if you’re going to be in the water for many hours at a time, it’s best to use a menstrual cup as you might run the risk of toxic shock syndrome if you leave your tampon in for too long.

Our ultra-soft menstrual cups come in two sizes. These will give you the ultimate peace of mind while swimming as they can stay inserted for up to 12 hours. There won’t be any leaks, plus they’re made from medical-grade silicone which means they’re so soft and comfy you won’t even feel it!

2) Only swim in water that’s safe and clean

It goes without saying, but you shouldn’t swim in water that’s polluted or contaminated in any way. Although this might not directly affect your period, it can be dangerous for your health in the long run.

3) Remember, your period doesn’t stop when you’re in water

Have you noticed when you’re in the bath or shower that your period either slows down or there’s no blood at all? And then when you get out it’s like a waterfall again. Well, that’s because the pressure of the water slows down the flow of the blood from the uterus to the vagina. You’re definitely still on your period, but the rate at which the blood flows has become a lot slower. So, if you’re on your period and you’re thinking of swimming, always make sure you’re wearing a tampon or menstrual cup because as soon as you leave the water the blood will return.