March 22, 2023 3 min read

For women participating in water sports, having a period while on the water can be a daunting experience. From cramps, mood swings, and the potential for leakage, having a period while trying to stay afloat can be a challenging experience.

Many women in water sports worry about getting their period while participating in these activities. Swimming, surfing, kayaking, or any other water sport can be challenging to thoroughly enjoy because of the worry of leaks, discomfort, and embarrassment. However, having a stress-free day by participating in water activities is possible with a few easy tips and methods.

Periods are Normal

Remembering that periods are a normal and natural aspect of the female reproductive cycle is the first and most crucial thing to remember.

water sports

Even if you sometimes wonder, “why is my period late?” Nothing about it should make you feel guilty, and you shouldn't let it prevent you from participating in your favorite aquatic activities. It's alright to realize that many women perform admirably in sports and other activities during their periods. Having your period will not make you less capable or powerful as an athlete.

Watch out for leakage

The fear of leakage is among the most prevalent worries among female participants in water sports. This may be very concerning if you wear a bikini or wetsuit with little coverage. Consider using a tampon or menstrual cup to reduce the chance of leakage.

Tampons are compact, covert, and made to be worn comfortably when exercising. Due to their reusability, environmental friendliness, and ability to be worn for up to 12 hours, menstrual cups are also a fantastic solution for water sports.

Be Prepared for Discomfort

The discomfort that comes with water activities is another issue for women. Pads may feel heavy and uncomfortable due to water, sweat, and movement. Consider donning period-proof swimsuits or shorts to prevent this. These can offer a comfortable and covert solution for participating in aquatic activities while being specifically made to absorb menstrual flow. Furthermore, wearing a thin panty liner might add a layer of protection and boost your confidence.

Plan Ahead

Additionally, it's critical to prepare and plan. Make sure you have enough tampons or menstrual cups to last the entire time you're participating in water activities, and pack a few extras just in case. If you anticipate spending a lot of time on the water, consider bringing a waterproof bag or container to hold your spent tampons or menstrual cups until you can properly dispose of them.

Here are a few more steps to make the experience more bearable.

1. What to Bring

    An essential thing is always to be ready for anything. A waterproof bag containing a few necessities, such as pads and tampons, is a bright idea, so you are not caught off guard when your period starts. Furthermore, wearing safe and comfortable swimwear is crucial, as a loose-fitting suit runs the risk of leakage.

    2. Listen to Your Body

      Keeping track of your physiological functions is crucial when participating in a water sport. It can keep you comfortable and help you avoid awkward situations by tracking how frequently you need to change your pad or tampon. Additionally, it's crucial to stop and rest if necessary if you have cramps or other symptoms during your period.

      3. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings

      It's critical to pay attention to your surroundings. Dark-colored bottoms should always be worn to help hide any potential leaks. Additionally, it's crucial to show consideration for other swimmers by swimming away from them if there's a chance of leakage.

      You can do it!

      Don't be shy about asking for assistance or guidance. Many women can provide advice and suggestions since they have experienced similar circumstances. Reach out to a family member or friend you can trust if you're feeling uneasy or uncertain about something, or consult a healthcare professional.

      Author - Aleksandra Djurdjevic
      ABOUT THE AUTHOR
      Aleksandra Djurdjevic          

      Senior Content Creator

      Aleksandra Djurdjevic is a senior writer and editor, covering surf, kayak and various watersports activities. She has previously worked as ESL teacher for English Tochka. Aleksandra graduated from the Comparative Literature department at the Faculty of Philosophy in Serbia. Aleksandra’s love for the ocean / rivers, getting out waves, season after season, seeking epic adventures across the globe helps her continue to be a top expert at CSG.

       


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