How to Use Tampons While Swimming

If you have your period on a day you plan to go swimming, you can't use a sanitary pad. However, a tampon can reduce your risk of leaking into the pool, which can be unsanitary and embarrassing.

Instructions

• 1

  Buy tampons according to your menstrual flow. If you have a heavy period, you should get super tampons, which are made larger for heavier flows. If you have different flow on different days of your period, you can buy a package of assorted sizes.

• 2

  Take tampons with you to go swimming. Put in a brand new tampon right before you get into the pool or lake. Use the proper size for your body and menstrual flow. If you use a size smaller than normal, it will be easier to remove after swimming. A size too large can be uncomfortable and difficult to remove. If you don't usually use tampons, and have trouble inserting them, apply a small amount of lubricant on the tip to make it slide in easier.

• 3

  Keep an eye on your bathing suit while swimming to look for signs of leakage. If you did not insert the tampon right, it could slip out and you can leak.

• 4

  Replace your tampon as soon as you are done swimming. If you find it is hard to remove, there hasn't been enough blood flow and it is safe to leave it in until it absorbs more blood.