Marla Ahlgrimm | Swimming, Your Period, And You

Summer is here, and many young women are gearing up for some fun in the sun. But, Marla Ahlgrimm says that a common concern is swimming during the menstrual cycle. Is it possible? Keep reading for the answer. 

 

According to Marla Ahlgrimm, yes, you can swim when you are on your period. To answer the next most obvious question, no, it won’t attract sharks. 

 

Women who wish to swim on their periods should avoid pads and use tampons or a menstrual cup instead. This is because both of these feminine hygiene products stop blood before it exits the body. By contrast, a pad is excellent at absorbing blood, but it has to leave the vagina first. 

What is a menstrual cup? 

 

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that a menstrual cup is similar to a small silicone bowl inserted into a woman’s body. Unlike a tampon, which absorbs blood, a cup creates a seal inside of the cervix to catch and collect the monthly flow. Cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, making them a great option for those who plan to swim all day. 

Tips for swimming on your period 

 

Aside from keeping blood out of the water, there are many other concerns women might have when swimming when mother nature comes to visit. One is blotchy skin. The hormone fluctuation that causes your period can also cause pimples and oil. To offset this, make sure to use a high SPF sunscreen, let it dry, and then apply a tinted moisturizer to even out your skin tone. Marla Ahlgrimm says your sunscreen may need to be applied periodically throughout the day. 

 

Another tip: avoid salty and fried foods. While these might be readily available at beachside stands, Marla Ahlgrimm notes that these types of treats can make bloating and cramping more noticeable. 

 

Ultimately, Marla Ahlgrimm says there’s no reason that women can’t enjoy an all-day dip with a few precautions, such as using a tampon and skipping fried foods.