Can swimming during menstruation? This question often arises and many people say not to swim during menstruation. The reason is worried that blood will leak when you are engrossed in swimming. However, is that really the case? Let's look at the following explanation.

Can You Swim During Menstruation?

Actually, all kinds of sports including swimming are fine to do even if you are menstruating. The notion that menstrual blood will continue to flow or even stop while swimming is just a myth. The reason is, swimming during menstruation does not directly stop bleeding. If you swim during your period, menstrual blood will still come out, just not as much as when you're not swimming.

However, keep in mind that this does not guarantee that your menstrual blood will not enter the swimming pool water. The risk of menstrual blood penetrating and contaminating pool water is still there, especially if you often go in and out of the pool repeatedly.

In addition, there are also those who think that swimming during menstruation is prohibited because it can worsen menstrual cramps. However, this assumption is also not true. In fact, moderate exercise can actually help relieve menstrual cramps. Including one of them swimming.

Tips for Safe Swimming During Menstruation

Even though it is safe and permissible, still pay attention to some safe swimming tips during menstruation. Among them are:

1. Avoid using reusable pads

Pads work by absorbing menstrual blood. Therefore, avoid using reusable pads because they can absorb pool water and cause blood to leak into the swimsuit and contaminate the pool water.

2. Use tampons or menstrual cups

It is recommended to use tampons or menstrual cups which are proven to be safer and have a lower risk of leakage.

If tampons are more comfortable, be sure to change them at least every 8 hours to reduce your risk of toxic shock syndrome. If you choose a menstrual cup, don't use it for more than 6 hours and always keep it clean.

3. Use special swimwear for menstruation

Swimwear specially designed for menstruation can prevent menstrual blood from leaking and contaminating swimming pool water. This clothing can be an option when you want to swim during menstruation, so you feel more confident.

4. Shower and wash your hair after swimming

Like other public places, swimming pools that are used by many people tend to be difficult to keep clean. In addition, if the pond's filtration system is not good, the water can be contaminated with bacteria. If your body and intimate areas are wet, damp and exposed to unclean water for a long time, you are at risk of experiencing health problems such as infection.

Therefore, after finishing swimming, it is advisable to immediately take a shower and wash your hair with clean running water. Don't worry, bathing and washing your hair during menstruation is not prohibited, instead it will keep your body clean.

If You Want to Swim During Menstruation…

Even though you are allowed to swim during your period, it is important for you to pay attention to cleanliness. Considering that swimming pools are often used by many people, maintaining cleanliness is an important factor. When in a swimming pool, the vagina is prone to infection because menstrual blood, which is alkaline in nature, can change the pH of the vagina, especially with the influence of the pH of the water in the swimming pool. This makes it easier for bacteria from pool water to gather in the vagina.

Apart from that, another problem is the lack of popularity of using tampons and menstrual cups in Indonesia, so some people may choose to use pads when swimming. However, from a hygiene point of view, it is advisable not to do this as the pads will absorb the pool water, making it swell and damp.

Even though you are menstruating, it is okay for you to do various activities including swimming. However, before swimming you should prepare yourself by using special swimming equipment that can withstand the flow of menstrual blood and provide comfort. And if possible, choose a swimming time at the end of the menstrual period when the amount of blood that comes out has decreased. This can give you peace of mind.

If you still have questions about the safety of swimming during menstruation, you can consult directly with your doctor to get a clear and accurate explanation.

References:

https://www.alodokter.com/bolehkah-wanita-berenang-saat-haid

https://www.sehatq.com/artikel/apakah-boleh-berenang-saat-haid

https://hellosehat.com/wanita/menstruasi/apakah-boleh-berenang-saat-menstruasi/