Having your period does not mean you need to miss swimming lessons, surf training, competitions or a day at the beach. The right period protection can help you feel more comfortable and confident in and around the water.

There is no single option that works best for everyone. Period swimwear, menstrual cups and menstrual discs can all be used on their own. Period swimwear can also be worn with a cup or disc as extra backup.

This can be especially helpful for young swimmers, first-time cup or disc users, surfers and anyone who is worried about leaking during sport.

Can You Swim While You Have Your Period?

Yes, you can swim while you have your period.

Being in the water may temporarily reduce how much menstrual flow you notice, but the water does not stop your period. Flow can return when you leave the water, walk around the pool or beach, or sit down after swimming.

Ordinary swimwear is not designed to absorb menstrual flow. Period swimwear has a specially designed absorbent lining that helps provide protection while swimming and after leaving the water.

Period Swimwear Can Be Worn on Its Own

Period swimwear can be a simple option for people who do not want to use an internal period product.

It may suit young people who have recently started their periods, people who are not comfortable using a tampon, cup or disc, and anyone who wants easy period protection for swimming.

Bohokiwi has two period swimwear styles.

The Bikini Style Brief provides moderate absorbency and may be suitable for moderate flow, longer swimming sessions or people who want greater protection.

The Mid-Waist Bikini Brief provides light absorbency and may be suitable for lighter flow, spotting, the beginning or end of a period, or as backup with a cup or disc.

Both styles can be worn on their own. The best option will depend on your flow, how long you will be swimming and how comfortable you feel.

People with heavier periods may prefer to combine period swimwear with a menstrual cup or disc, especially during a long training session, competition or beach day.

Swimming With a Menstrual Cup

A menstrual cup is inserted into the vagina and collects menstrual fluid. When it is positioned correctly, it can be worn while swimming, surfing and exercising.

A cup can be used on its own, so period swimwear is not essential. However, some people choose to wear period swimwear as backup.

This can be reassuring when you are still learning how to insert the cup, checking whether it has opened properly or working out which cup size and fold suit your body.

It is best to practise using a cup at home before relying on it during a swimming competition, surf event or school swimming day.

Swimming With a Menstrual Disc

A menstrual disc is inserted into the vagina and tucked behind the pubic bone. It sits higher than a menstrual cup and collects menstrual fluid.

A disc can also be worn on its own while swimming, surfing or exercising.

Some people prefer discs because they sit differently from cups and do not rely on the same type of seal. However, discs can still take practice to insert and remove correctly.

Wearing period swimwear with a disc can provide extra reassurance while you are learning. It can also be useful during heavier-flow days or longer periods of activity.

Bohokiwi menstrual discs are available in two sizes, allowing users to choose the size that feels most comfortable and secure.

Combining Period Swimwear With a Cup or Disc

Period swimwear, cups and discs can each work independently. You do not need to combine them.

However, combining period swimwear with a cup or disc can provide extra backup.

The cup or disc acts as the main form of protection, while the period swimwear helps provide reassurance in case the cup or disc is not positioned correctly or starts to leak.

This combination may be helpful for first-time users, people with heavier flow, competitive swimmers, surfers, school swimming days and long beach trips.

It may also help young users feel more confident while they are still learning how their body and period products work.

No period product can guarantee that leaks will never happen. Testing your chosen protection before an important event can help you understand how well it works for your body and flow.

Which Option Is Best for a Beginner?

A young person who has recently started their period may prefer to begin with period swimwear on its own. It is worn like ordinary swimwear and does not require insertion or removal.

Someone who wants longer-lasting internal protection may decide to try a menstrual cup or disc.

There is no need to rush. Some people feel comfortable using internal period products from a young age, while others prefer external protection. The right choice is the one that feels comfortable and manageable.

A beginner using a cup or disc may feel more relaxed wearing period swimwear as backup for the first few cycles.

It is also sensible to practise at home before using a cup or disc for a swimming lesson, competition or surf event.

What Should You Pack for Swimming on Your Period?

Pack the period protection that suits your flow and comfort level.

This may include Bohokiwi period swimwear, a menstrual cup, a menstrual disc or a combination of products.

It is also useful to pack dry underwear, a change of clothing, a small towel and a waterproof or wet bag for damp swimwear.

A clean cotton storage bag can be used to store a dry cup or disc before use. Cups and discs should not be stored wet or in an airtight container for long periods.

You may also want to pack any pain relief you normally use, provided it is suitable for you and taken according to the instructions.

For school swimming, surf club or regular training, keeping a prepared period kit in your sports bag can prevent last-minute stress.

Tips for Swimmers, Surfers and Athletes

Test your period protection during an ordinary training session before relying on it during a competition or important event.

Empty your cup or disc before swimming and follow the recommended wear time for your product.

Change out of wet swimwear after swimming when practical. Rinse and wash your period swimwear according to the care instructions.

If you are spending a long time at the beach or pool, bring a dry backup option.

For surfers, swimmers and other athletes, comfort is important. A product that feels distracting, painful or incorrectly positioned should be removed and checked.

Periods Should Not Stop Participation in Sport

Periods can already be stressful for young people, particularly when they are worried about leaks, changing facilities or managing products away from home.

Having several period protection options can make it easier to continue swimming, surfing and taking part in sport.

Bohokiwi period swimwear, menstrual cups and menstrual discs can each be worn on their own. Period swimwear can also be combined with a cup or disc for additional reassurance.

The best option is the one that suits your flow, body, activity and level of comfort.