Can you swim with a menstrual cup safely?

My mother and grandmother had warned me not to swim during my periods. And I used to watch my pals having fun in the sea as I sat on the side of the shore. Similarly, have you been warned that swimming during your menstrual cycle is unsafe? If so, you have been given false information. You can swim without any problems when you are menstruating. Moreover, when menstruating, you can do pretty much anything you would normally do. Yes, that covers everything, even swimming. Read on to learn how swimming with a menstrual cup is safe and tips to keep in mind before using it.

Is it safe to go swimming during periods?

There are too many myths associated with menstruation, and not swimming during your periods is another! Swimming is a safe exercise during periods. Water helps you relax and reduce period cramps. However, it is important to make sure you swim in a clean pool to avoid the risk of infection. One can use tampons, menstrual cups, or period-friendly swimwear, but one must ensure proper hygiene and change the tampon and clean the menstrual cup after a swim, says obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Astha Dayal.

Is swimming with a menstrual cup safe?

The short answer is yes. One can swim while wearing a menstrual cup. Using a menstrual cup is an excellent period-day swim option. Internally worn, this silicone-based device collects menstrual blood. As a result, the pool water is unable to enter the vagina and will not come into contact with the menstrual cup. This implies that you won’t have to worry about leaks when swimming with a menstruation cup on. Plus, a menstrual cup has the advantage of avoiding leaks and can be worn for up to 12 hours. So it can be changed when one is back home. The right size cup should be used and it should be inserted and positioned properly to avoid discomfort or any leak.

Also Read: A menstrual cup is for everyone! Or maybe not if you’re facing these 5 issues

How to use a menstrual cup while swimming?

Here are some tips shared by the expert that need to be kept in mind, even though the guidelines for inserting and removing menstrual cups are universal.

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1. Select the appropriate size

Make sure there are no leaks of menstrual blood into the water and buying the appropriate size is key! Using a menstrual cup that fits like a glove is the best way to avoid leaks since it forms a firm suction grasp inside the vagina and stays there.

2. Empty the cup before swimming

A menstruation cup may hold between 20 and 30 mL of blood at once. If your period flow is normal, there’s a good chance the cup won’t fill up even after eight hours of constant wear. However, jumping in with an empty cup is a safety measure to stop any leaks in the swimming pool.

3. Get used to the cup

“Menstruation cups are reusable and sustainable. It may take some time for you to handle it properly. Thus, before you decide to take a dip while wearing it, experts advise that you should familiarise yourself with this equipment if you’re new to using a menstrual cup. However, once you’re a pro, you’ll be very confident and comfortable swimming with a menstrual cup on,” says the expert.

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Also Read: 3 reasons why you must switch to menstrual cups

4. Keep the menstrual cup clean

It is important to clean and empty the cup after swimming to protect you from diseases. Thus, after your swim, always remember to bring a water bottle and practise the empty-wash-insert technique in a public washroom. To maintain extra menstrual hygiene, always wash your hands well before handling the cup, either by entering it or taking it out.

Are there any side effects of menstrual cups?

It’s generally safe to use a menstrual cup for periods. Plus, menstrual cups are the ideal feminine hygiene product to use based on convenience, needs, and lifestyle if you’re searching for an odourless, reusable choice.