Go with the flow.

Periods can be tricky at the best of times, but for female swimmers there are extra challenges. Here are some tips for how to stay leak-and worry-free at training and meets.

Period swimwear

It's more difficult for the blood to flow outside the body when you’re in the pool due to the counter pressure of the water. So don’t worry, you’re not going to “gush”, but you still need to chose the right menstrual hygiene product(s). The good news is that the range of options is increasing with the development of period swimwear and the EVEN BETTER NEWS is that Swim England have recently revised event rules to allow period bikini bottoms under a race suit! Training and competition when having your period - Swim England Competitive Swimming Hub

There are loads of period bikini bottoms available, like these from ModiBodi

Wuka is another good option. They have written a brilliant blog debunking some myths about swimming on your period (no, the water won’t turn red and no, sharks can’t smell the tiny trace amount of blood that might make it into the water so anyone off to Oz, swim away!) 

For training do wear drag shorts. These are great for pool side too. If you’re feeling shy why not agree with a friend that you’ll both wear drag shorts when either of you has your period?

Tell a coach!

Head Coach Kim says “I know it can be difficult, but please don’t be embarrassed. If the coaches know how you’re feeling we can adapt the set where needed. If you experience  cramps make sure you carry painkillers and be sure to put your towel on top of your bag so it’s easier to find at the end of the session.”

Enjoy the boost

There isn’t much research on how women perform differently throughout the month, but during the first ten days of your cycle (counting from when you start bleeding) the female body is focused on producing oestrogen, which may make us feel stronger.

This article explains how more money is going into research so in the future we might be able to harness our hormones for better training.

Meanwhile, getting your period shouldn’t be something you worry about. We’re here to support you!

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