How can you swim on your period without a tampon?
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Time to read 10 min
Summer’s almost here: it’s time for pool days and afternoons at the beach with your friends! Don’t let your period crash the party—we’ve got several practical solutions for you! Swimming on your period? Yes, you can!
At the pool or the beach, your period is never a welcome guest! How can you fully enjoy swimming when you’re on your period? How can you swim with peace of mind during your period? And most importantly, how can you avoid using tampons?
Today, there are affordable, healthy, eco-friendly, and practical alternatives to tampons! To help you make the most of your pool session or beach day without a second thought, Louloucup reveals three concrete alternatives to traditional tampons.
Period swimwear, menstrual cups, or free bleeding: explore options that fit your flow and your lifestyle, with no compromise on comfort or the planet.
In this article:
I. Alternatives to tampons for swimming during your period Menstrual swimwear: a practical and discreet solution Four facts you should know about Louloucup menstrual swimwear Selection of Louloucup period swimwear 🤩 Louloucup’s tips for optimal menstrual cup use Selection of Louloucup menstrual cups 🤩 II. Myths about periods and swimming: separating fact from fiction Adjust your protection based on your flow level IV. Menstrual protection for swimming: the eco-friendly and budget-friendly approach Long-term cost-effectiveness of reusable period products Durability and care of reusable protection V. The health aspect of alternative swimwear protection FAQ: Is it possible to swim without a tampon? Do you also want to take a dip without a second thought?
I. Alternatives to tampons for swimming during your period
Period swimwear, menstrual cups, or free bleeding—here are our three tampon alternatives for swimming. Because yes, it’s now possible to swim without a tampon!
Menstrual swimwear: a practical and discreet solution
The menstrual swimsuit is an innovative solution that lets you enjoy the water with confidence. Made with technical absorbent materials, it holds menstrual flow without swelling. Perfect for teens and women who want to avoid tampons, the menstrual swimsuit offers optimal comfort.
Did you know? Louloucup, your favorite French brand for quality menstrual products, offers two lines of absorbent swimsuits for periods. One swimsuit line for women and one swimsuit line for teens. Our menstrual swimsuits are stylish, elegant, and practical—perfect for a worry-free summer. They’re eligible for the custom pack and can easily be included in a set with your favorite period underwear.
Four facts you should know about Louloucup menstrual swimwear
Menstrual swimsuits feature layers of high-performance fibers. Able to absorb the equivalent of 2 to 3 tampons (about 10 ml), they're ideal for light to medium flows. For heavy flows, we recommend wearing a menstrual cup along with your absorbent swimsuit.
Available as bikini bottoms (swim briefs) or one-piece suits, you have options! You can wear your period swim bottoms and pair them with any bikini top you like, or go for a one-piece style and use it as a bodysuit with shorts or a sarong!
Made with waterproof fabrics, period swimwear dries quickly and resists chlorine and salt. However, we always recommend rinsing your period swimwear in fresh water after each use.
Menstrual swimsuits offer a hygienic, high-quality, safe, and reliable solution for the beach or pool. Louloucup menstrual swimwear is both feminine and high-performing!
Selection of Louloucup period swimwear 🤩
Menstrual cup: a discreet and eco-friendly option
The menstrual cup is an ideal alternative for swimming. Inserted into the vagina, this internal, reusable medical-grade silicone protection collects menstrual flow without being visible. More economical than any other menstrual product, the menstrual cup can last up to 10 years. Unlike disposable tampons, the cup won’t break down in water. It’s a favorite among active women and athletes. It handles even the heaviest flows without leaks. With the Loulou cup, you can move with confidence!
Louloucup’s tips for optimal menstrual cup use
For leak-free swimming, empty your menstrual cup before getting in the water and make sure it’s properly positioned.
If you have a heavy flow, go for the Louloucup medium size model.
After your swim, empty your cup, rinse it, and reinsert it.
Medical grade silicone cups are flexible and easy to insert. No need to worry.
For long days at the beach, you can switch between different clean menstrual cups. This eco-friendly method eliminates waste from tampons.
Selection of Louloucup menstrual cups 🤩
"Very satisfied with my first cup. The look + the little carrying pouch. Excellent product. I can play any sport I want without worrying about it! Happy with my purchase." Noémie D.
The free bleeding method for certain situations
The last alternative to tampons: FLI, or free bleeding. This method lets you swim without any protection by holding blood in with your pelvic floor muscles.
This method is for women who are in tune with their bodies, especially at the end of their cycle when flow is light. While not 100% reliable, this technique offers total freedom.
However, free bleeding carries a risk of leaks and requires impeccable hygiene to avoid infections.
The pressure of water temporarily slows your flow but doesn’t stop it. In the ocean or pool, some women use the F.I.L. method by holding the blood in the vagina. This technique is best for light flows and requires some practice. While safe, F.I.L. is a personal option to try privately before using it in public activities.
II. Swimming on your period: myths, sorting fact from fiction
Myths about menstrual flow in water
Water doesn’t stop your period, but the pressure can temporarily slow the flow. Blood instantly dilutes in water. According to studies, Archimedes’ principle creates upward pressure, which slows bleeding. Even if it seems like you’re not bleeding, the flow continues internally. The average amount lost is 30 to 50 ml per cycle.
Many people think saltwater or chlorinated water completely stops periods, but that’s a myth. Water pressure affects the flow, but doesn’t stop it. According to an IFOP study, 76% of French women worry about leaks while swimming. Tampons can swell in water, making them less practical. For worry-free swimming, choose more suitable and ethical options like menstrual cups or period swimwear.
Swimming during your period and health risks
Swimming during your period poses no health risk as long as you follow basic hygiene precautions. The main health risks come from water quality (germs, pollution), not your menstrual cycle. There are no general medical contraindications to swimming while on your period.
Swimming is possible with endometriosis, but requires proper management of protection. If you have a heavy flow, consider double protection (cup + swimsuit). For athletes, swimming is actually recommended as it can help ease menstrual pain. According to gynecologists, it’s important to change your protection after swimming to avoid infections.
III. How to choose the right protection for your swimming style
Selection criteria based on water activity
Choosing your period protection based on your water activity is important for optimal comfort. For intensive swimming, the menstrual cup is ideal. For occasional swimming, menstrual swimwear may be enough for those with a light to normal flow. For water sports, go for more durable options. Your flow and personal preferences will determine the best choice.
Swimmers tend to choose menstrual cups or period swimwear for the pool.
For water sports, swimsuits with side support are perfect.
At sea, salt-resistant protection is recommended.
The same protections work for lakes.
For a full day at the beach, always bring spare protection for extra comfort. You’ll be glad to have a clean, sand- and salt-free option to change into!
Adjust your protection based on your flow level
For heavy flow, the menstrual cup is the most reliable solution. Our two models, Loulou Rose and Turquoise, are perfect for even the heaviest periods.
Menstrual swimsuits can be paired with a cup for added security.
For light flow, the IUD may be an option.
Once you’re done swimming, whether you’re on the beach or lounging, you can wear period panties (instead of traditional pads).
Our ultimate tip: always keep a spare protection handy for unexpected flow. If your period is heavy, opt for reusable products like period swimwear. For a day at the beach, pack several protections. For variable flow, adjust as needed each day. Signs of change can sometimes appear as discomfort or leaks.
IV. Menstrual protection for swimming: the eco-friendly and budget-friendly approach
Environmental impact of different period products
Alternative period products for swimming help reduce waste from disposables. Menstrual cups and washable swimwear avoid non-recyclable plastics. In France, 45 billion pads and tampons are thrown away each year. Choosing these options protects both your well-being and the planet.
Disposable pads take 400 to 450 years to decompose. On average, a woman uses about 11,000 disposable products in her lifetime. Reusable options, like period swimwear, replace hundreds of disposables and generate less CO2 over the long term. Every action counts—even at the pool.
Long-term cost-effectiveness of reusable period products
Reusable protection costs more upfront, but can save you hundreds of euros over time. A menstrual swimsuit or cup lasts for years. Altogether, each purchase becomes an investment for your wallet and the planet.
Durability and care of reusable protection
After swimming, rinse your swimsuit with clean water to remove salt or chlorine. Wash at 86°F (30°C) with a gentle detergent. Avoid the dryer to protect the technical fabrics. Simple care will extend its lifespan.
Rinse immediately with clean water after swimming.
Wash at a maximum of 30°C (86°F), no fabric softener.
Avoid tumble drying—air dry instead.
Check for wear regularly (seams, stretched fabric).
Chlorine speeds up elastic wear. A well-maintained swimsuit lasts 5 to 10 years. Signs you need a replacement include unexplained leaks or deep scratches. Lifespan also depends on how often you use it and how well you care for it.
V. The health aspect of alternative swimwear protection
Reusable products avoid the chemicals found in disposables. Their organic cotton and natural fibers reduce yeast infections and irritation. In water, they maintain intimate balance, unlike tampons which absorb natural secretions.
Period swimwear uses Oeko-Tex certified cotton and plant-based micro modal. Medical-grade silicone cups don’t release chemical odors or toxic substances. They prevent vaginal dryness, which can cause discomfort. The breathable materials reduce friction in water, which is linked to irritation.
Thousands of women report improved comfort. Competitive swimmers use these solutions for their reliability.
Menstrual swimwear, cups, or free bleeding all offer safe solutions for swimming during your period without a tampon. Try the one that matches your style and needs. Your summer, your pool, your freedom—enjoy them fully, with no restrictions or compromises.
FAQ: Is it possible to swim without a tampon?
How do I choose the right size for my period swimwear?
To choose the right size for your period swimwear, always check the manufacturer's size guide. Measure your waist and hips, as sizes can vary between brands. A good fit is essential to prevent leaks, especially around the waist and thighs.
Some brands recommend choosing your usual size, while others suggest going up a size if you’re between two. Don’t hesitate to check customer reviews to get a better idea.
How to manage odors with period products?
Managing odors with period products requires strict hygiene. Odors are often caused by bacteria growing in stagnant blood. Change your protection regularly, ideally every 4 to 6 hours, and maintain good intimate hygiene without overdoing vaginal washes.
Wearing period underwear made with absorbent, breathable fabrics can help control moisture and odors. Natural solutions like baking soda can be used to care for your period underwear.
Can you use lubricant with a menstrual cup?
Yes, you can use a lubricant with a menstrual cup, especially to make insertion easier. Apply a water-based lubricant to the rim of the cup for a smoother, more comfortable insertion.
Some brands offer menstrual cup applicators designed to be used with lubricant. Using a lubricant can be especially helpful if you’re new to menstrual cups.
How do you clean your menstrual cup while traveling?
When traveling, clean your menstrual cup with potable water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. If the water isn’t safe to drink, use bottled water or boil it first.
If you don’t have access to water, wipe the cup with toilet paper or a wet wipe before reinserting. For deeper disinfection, use a compact menstrual cup sterilizer that’s travel-friendly.
Are there menstrual swimsuits for very heavy flows?
Yes, there are period swimsuits designed for heavy flows. Some brands offer models with high absorbency, equivalent to 3-4 tampons.
For very heavy flows, it’s recommended to combine your period swimwear with an internal protection like a menstrual cup. Some brands offer period underwear with an absorbency equivalent to 5 regular tampons.
How can you tell if your menstrual cup is inserted correctly?
To check if your menstrual cup is inserted correctly, first make sure it has fully opened by inserting a finger and running it around the edge of the cup. Make sure the base isn’t folded.
A properly positioned cup can’t be felt and lets you go about your activities with no discomfort or leaks. If you feel it hasn’t fully opened, twist it by pinching the bottom where the ridges are. If it leaks, it probably wasn’t inserted correctly.
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