Swimming during your period is entirely possible. Just pick a tampon or menstrual product that feels right and suits your routine.
Heading to the pool or beach while menstruating? No need to fret. Almost any tampon will do the job and protect you while in the water.
That said, personal taste may lead you to prefer certain varieties over others.
Not sure which to try? We selected these items based on design, dependability, and customer feedback.
If you’re spotting
Spotting refers to bleeding that occurs outside your normal period. It can be caused by stress, medications, or some infections, among other things.
When you’re spotting, you probably won’t need the same level of absorbency as during your period. Opt for a light absorbency tampon with leak guards in case your spotting turns out heavier than expected.
Tampax Pearl Lite
Tampax’s light tampons feature a slim plastic applicator that inserts smoothly.
The slender tampon has a braided string to help reduce leaks and can be tucked into the inner labia so it won’t peek out from your swimsuit.
Shop for Tampax Pearl Lite tampons online.
Veeda 100% Natural Cotton Lite
If you prefer tampons with cleaner ingredients, Veeda’s tampons are free from synthetics, dyes, and harsh chemicals.
This biodegradable option has a thin plastic applicator for comfy insertion and natural grooves designed to help prevent leakage.
Shop for Veeda 100% Natural Cotton Lite tampons online.
If you just started your period
On day 1 you may experience your heaviest flow, so you’ll want more protection to swim confidently without leaks. We recommend sport tampons that provide 360-degree coverage.
Playtex Sport Regular
This tampon is popular for its distinct shape and sizing.
The applicator resembles other plastic applicators, but the tampon blooms into a flower shape to guard against leaks from every angle — great if you enjoy diving and active swimming.
Shop for Playtex Sport Regular tampons online.
Playtex Simply Gentle Glide Ultra Absorbency
Want robust, all-around protection from a sport tampon but with a gentler composition? This one fits the bill.
Despite a slender applicator and purified fibers, it still provides strong control for heavier days.
Shop for Playtex Simply Gentle Glide Ultra Absorbency tampons online.
The Honey Pot Company 100% Organic Super
Heavy flows need higher absorbency, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing quality.
These organic tampons provide dependable protection and are fully plant-based, free from pesticides, chlorine, dyes, dioxins, and synthetic materials.
Shop for The Honey Pot Company 100% Organic Super tampons online.
If you’re in the middle of your flow
Your mid-period flow is probably between light and heavy. A regular-size tampon should handle menstrual blood while still being suitable for swimming.
Lola Non-Applicator
Consider a non-applicator tampon for a compact option in your beach or travel bag. These 100% organic cotton tampons expand in all directions for even coverage and can be inserted and removed by hand.
Shop for Lola Non-Applicator tampons online.
O.B. Organic Regular
Simple and straightforward, this organic tampon is a no-nonsense choice for daily use, whether you’re in the pool or not.
The applicator is plant-based so you can dispose of it without the concerns tied to regular plastic applicators.
Shop for O.B. Organic Regular tampons online.
If your period is almost over
Toward the end of your period, opt for a light absorbency tampon like you would with spotting. These lighter tampons protect while avoiding unnecessary bulk while swimming.
Cora Organic Cotton Light
Compact and lightweight, these tampons expand comfortably to prevent leaks.
They’re GOTS-certified organic cotton. The brand also supports girls’ education globally, so you get a feel-good boost with your purchase.
Shop for Cora Organic Cotton Light tampons online.
Tampax Pearl Active Lite
Combining 360-degree sport-style protection with the slim profile of a light tampon, this hybrid is ideal for the final days of your period — especially if your flow is slightly unpredictable.
The smooth outer layer facilitates easy removal, whether the tampon is fully saturated or not.
Shop for Tampax Pearl Active Lite tampons online.
Common questions
It’s normal to have questions about swimming on your period, especially if you typically use pads. Below are a few considerations to keep in mind when picking and using a tampon.
Is a higher absorbency better?
Not always. It depends on how heavy your flow is.
Heavier bleeding calls for higher-absorbency tampons to prevent leaks and reduce the number of changes during the day — handy if you don’t want to interrupt your swim for frequent restroom trips.
For lighter flows, choose lower absorbency (light or lite). Using a high-absorbency tampon on a light flow can make removal uncomfortable.
Is it going to soak up water?
Possibly. The vaginal opening isn’t watertight. While a tampon might absorb some water, that won’t prevent it from soaking up menstrual blood effectively.
How often should you change it?
Change your tampon as soon as you finish swimming, or every 4 to 8 hours while you’re using one.
A wet, used tampon can encourage bacterial growth — which could increase risk for toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Stay cautious and practice safe habits.
What if it leaks?
If you pick the correct absorbency for your flow, leaks are less likely.
Accidents can still happen. If your tampon leaks onto your swimsuit, head to the bathroom and switch it right away.
Alternatives to consider
Not sure tampons are for you? Pads and panty liners aren’t ideal for swimming since they can absorb a lot of water and leak.
There are several other options that work well for swimming.
Menstrual discs
Like tampons, menstrual discs are inserted into the vagina but sit further back below the cervix in the vaginal fornix. They can be worn up to 12 hours and disposed of when finished.
Because of their placement, some people report reduced period-related cramping, which can make swimming more comfortable.
The Flex menstrual disc, which you can buy online, is praised for easy insertion and comfort. Its low profile makes it suited for sports and swimming, and it often has a lower leak risk than tampons.
If you’d like to avoid disposable waste, consider the Intimina Ziggy Cup, which is available online. Constructed like a menstrual cup, this reusable disc has a shallow design ideal for period sex and swimming, and it covers light to heavier flows.
For more on discs, see our guide to the menstrual disc.
Menstrual cups
Menstrual cups are another user-friendly alternative to discs. Popular for their eco-friendly appeal, the reusable funnel-shaped cup is inserted into the vagina just below the cervix and collects blood for 6 to 12 hours.
The DivaCup, one of the original mainstream cups, is available online. It’s made of medical-grade silicone with a firm rim and a sturdy base that’s straightforward to insert and remove.
If you’re prone to sensitivity or cramps, try the Saalt Soft Cup, which is also sold online. Its soft silicone formulation sits gently in the vaginal canal without causing cramping and is very flexible for easy placement.
For tips on maintaining reusable menstrual products, check out our post on how to clean menstrual cup.
Period-friendly swimwear
Surprisingly, you can buy swimwear with built-in leak-resistant layers. These suits come in one-piece and two-piece styles and include hidden absorbent liners that prevent staining.
If you want colorful prints, Ruby Love swimwear, which is available online, offers many designs. Its liner can hold up to six tampon’s worth of menstrual blood and doesn’t puff up in water.
Modibodi swimwear, which is also sold online, offers two streamlined black styles — a bikini bottom and a one-piece — that can hold up to two tampons’ worth and provide UPF 50+ sun protection.
If you’re wondering about comfort with internal products versus external options, or whether tampons might hurt, read our explainer on do tampons hurt.
The bottom line
If you’re unsure which option best fits your flow, consult a physician or other healthcare professional for tailored advice.
Most importantly, choose something that makes you feel secure and comfortable — and don’t forget to enjoy yourself.
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