Vol.8 | When Is It Okay to Go to the Pool or Beach During Your Period? How to Tell When It's Almost Over and What Preparations to Make
Vol. 8 | How many days into your period
can you go in a pool or the ocean?
Judging the end of your cycle and preparation
Can you swim on days 1 or 2 of your period? What about day 5 or when it's almost over? We cover the points to consider—beyond just "how many days"—as well as menstrual products you can use in the water and how to prepare with a menstrual cup.
Summer vacation, a long-awaited trip, a beach day with friends, or a pool day with the kids. Have you ever felt anxious after realizing, "Wait, my period might start soon..." right before a planned event?
To get straight to the point: It is possible to swim while on your period. However, rather than deciding based solely on the number of days (e.g., "It's fine if it's the X day"), it is important to make a decision based on your daily flow volume, your physical condition—including pain or fatigue—and whether you have prepared period products suitable for water.
but "whether you can prepare for today's volume and condition."
Because pads absorb water, they do not function as intended in pools or the ocean. When swimming, consider options designed for use in water, such as tampons, menstrual cups, or period-proof swimwear.
1 How many days into your period can you enter the water? A guide for when you're unsure
The number of days a period lasts and the flow volume vary from person to person. Even on "day 3," some people may have a heavy flow, while others may be nearing the end. Use the table below as a guideline, but prioritize your physical condition above all else.
| Timing | Guideline for judgment | Preparation if you enter |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1–2 | This is when the flow tends to be heavy. You can swim if you are feeling well and can use water-compatible period products. If you have severe pain, dizziness, or fatigue, choose to sit it out. | Check capacity and change intervals in advance. It is safer not to schedule your pool or beach day on the same day you use a menstrual cup for the very first time. |
| Days 3–4 | Flow may start to stabilize, but there are individual differences. Don't assume it's fine just because "it's day 3"; judge based on the day's volume and your physical condition. | Check your insertion status and replacement time before entering the water, and check the condition in the restroom after swimming. |
| Day 5 onwards/Nearing the end | Even if there is a small amount of bleeding or brown discharge, you can generally swim if you feel fine. Pads are not suitable for water as they will absorb it. | Choose tampons or menstrual cups suitable for light flow, or period-proof swimwear, and it's a good idea to bring extra underwear. |
| Almost over/No bleeding | If you have no physical issues, you can enjoy the pool or ocean as usual. | Since a small amount of bleeding may occur again, bring spare period products if you are concerned. |
*If you have undergone gynecological procedures or surgery, have a fever or severe pain, or are experiencing unusually heavy bleeding, please prioritize medical advice over swimming.
2 Why menstrual cups are suitable for the pool and ocean
Menstrual cups are inserted into the vagina to "collect" menstrual blood rather than "absorbing" it. This mechanism makes them well-suited for the pool and ocean.
4 reasons they are great for water activities
- Because they create a tight seal, blood is unlikely to leak even while in the water.
- There are no strings or external parts, so you don't have to worry about anything showing from your swimsuit.
- Most types can be worn for up to 12 hours, minimizing the need for changes even on days spent swimming or out all day.
- They are reusable, so they don't take up space in your luggage when traveling or out and about.
3 Stress-free, even for beginners: How to use them at the pool/ocean
1. Insert at home before you leave
Until you are used to it, we recommend inserting it at home where you can relax before leaving. As you get comfortable with the sensation, you will be able to do it smoothly while out.
2. Decide on a change schedule
It is safer to check and change it in the restroom while taking a break, roughly once or twice a day. On heavier days, it is safer to check more frequently.
3. Things that are convenient to bring
Having a portable water bottle (for rinsing the cup), wet wipes, individually wrapped mini-soaps, spare underwear, and a waterproof pouch will make changing in public restrooms much easier.
4. Tips for changing in public restrooms
It's okay if the stall doesn't have a sink. Simply wiping the cup with wet wipes is enough to maintain hygiene. If you are concerned about being seen, a recommended method is to fill a small water bottle and use it to rinse the cup inside the stall.
5. Maintenance after returning home
At the end of the day, remove the cup, wash it thoroughly with a mild soap, and store it in a clean state until the next use.
4 Even more peace of mind with "Period-proof bikinis/swimwear" × Menstrual cups
Following the rise of absorbent underwear, lingerie brands around the world have started releasing "period-proof bikinis" and swimwear that can be worn during menstruation. These items are designed so that even if a little blood seeps out, it won't show on the surface, providing a double layer of security when combined with a menstrual cup.
and choose period-proof swimwear as a backup.
This combination may well become the new standard for the pool and beach season moving forward.
5 Why menstrual cups are said to be "water-resistant" and their roots
The prototype for the menstrual cup was actually created in 1930s America. The first patent was acquired in 1937 by actress Leona Chalmers. However, at the time, the materials were rigid, and it did not reach widespread use.
Later, European brands emerged one after another: Mooncup in the UK in 2001, Lunette in Finland in 2005, and OrganiCup in Denmark in 2012. As we entered the 2010s, increasing environmental awareness regarding the desire to reduce disposable waste, combined with the gradual fading of taboos surrounding menstruation, allowed the menstrual cup to slowly grow in presence in Europe.
Around the same time, starting about 2013, the number of people crossing the Mediterranean seeking refuge in Europe surged, becoming a major humanitarian crisis reported globally. In refugee settings, it was pointed out as a serious issue that period products could not be sufficiently obtained and that products like pads, which are weak in water, were difficult to use.
Such social events may have influenced the increased focus on "things that can be used repeatedly and hygienically, with or without access to water."
Gaining attention for disaster preparedness
Recently, menstrual cups have been gaining attention as a preparation for disasters where water and electricity infrastructure may be cut off. The characteristic of being "water-resistant" is linked not only to leisure but also to security during emergencies.
6 Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will it fall out while I'm swimming?
A. If inserted in the correct size and position, there is almost no concern of it coming out while swimming. If you are a beginner, it is best not to make your first pool experience your first time using the cup; practice at home several times in advance for peace of mind.
Q. I feel embarrassed washing it in a public restroom...
A. It is perfectly fine to just wipe it with wet wipes. Until you get used to it, bringing a small water bottle into the stall can help put your mind at ease.
Q. Can I use it on heavy flow days?
A. Choosing a larger capacity type or shortening the interval between changes can make it easier to manage. If you are unsure about choosing the right size, please make use of our free consultation.
7 Make "enjoying yourself without worrying" the norm this summer
Just because you have your period, there is no need to give up on the pool or the ocean. Simply finding a menstrual cup that works for you will definitely reduce the number of days you spend worrying about "what to do today."
At fermata, we offer menstrual cups for beginners and free consultations if you are unsure about size selection. If you are wondering, "Which type fits me?" or "I'm a beginner and I'm anxious," please feel free to consult us.
Why not learn about the options available now?
Find period care that suits you,
from options that aren't a burden.
You can find the method that suits you from our menstrual cup lineup, menstrual cup diagnosis, or 15-minute free online consultation.
This article is intended for informational purposes. If you have concerns about your health, please consult a medical institution.
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