Swimming on your period can feel tricky. You might worry about leaks, changing in the locker room, or feeling different from your friends. However, periods no longer need to be the reason to miss training, races or time in the water. Period swimwear and under-swimwear period underwear make swimming during your period easier and more comfortable.
In this guide, we’ll explain what these products are, how they work, and tips for choosing the right one for you.
What Is Period Swimwear?
Period swimwear looks just like regular swimsuits, but it has built-in absorbent layers to catch menstrual flow while you swim. You don’t need to use a pad or tampon unless you want extra protection. It comes in different styles, like:
- One-piece swimsuits
- Bikini bottoms
- High-waisted styles
- Swim shorts
Some brands also make period swimwear specifically for younger teens and tweens, so you can feel confident in the pool or at swimming lessons.
A few recent reviews help break down what is on offer in the market:
- Glamour: The best period swimwear for 2025, tried and tested by GLAMOUR editors
- Good Housekeeping: The best period swimwear for leak-proof dips, tried and tested
How Does Period Swimwear Work in Water?
Period swimwear has several layers to keep you protected:
- Inner layer – pulls flow away from your body
- Absorbent middle layer – holds the flow securely
- Outer layer – stops leaks and keeps the water out
Even though your flow slows in water, period swimwear still helps you feel safe and dry. After swimming, the absorbent layers continue to work.
Under-Swimwear Period Underwear
Another option is under-swimwear period underwear. Brands like Eltee Sydney (now available in the UK) make underwear you can wear under your regular swimsuit. This is a great choice if you:
- Want to wear your favourite swimsuit
- Need extra protection on heavier days
- Prefer underwear instead of built-in layers
Just like period swimwear, it’s important that it fits snugly and that you follow the washing instructions.
Who Can Use Period Swimwear or Underwear?
These products are perfect for tweens and teens who:
- Have light to moderate flow days
- Go to swimming lessons or swim in school
- Want to feel confident in the pool without using tampons or cups
- Need extra backup protection with a tampon or cup
For heavy flow days or long swimming sessions, it’s a good idea to use them alongside another product for extra protection.
Why Period Swimwear and Underwear Are Great
✔ Easy to use and comfy
✔ No need to insert anything
✔ Discreet and looks like normal swimwear
✔ Reusable and eco-friendly
✔ Helps you feel confident at school or lessons
Tips for Choosing the Right One
- Absorbency: Make sure it matches your flow (light, medium, or heavy)
- Fit: Needs to be snug to prevent leaks
- Duration: Best for shorter swims unless used with backup
- Care: Rinse in cold water, gentle wash, air dry
- Price: Can cost more upfront but lasts a long time
How to Care for Period Swimwear and Underwear
- Rinse in cold water after use
- Wash gently in the machine or by hand (no fabric softener)
- Air dry — don’t put in the dryer
With proper care, period swimwear and underwear can last for several years.
Final Thoughts
Swimming on your period doesn’t have to be stressful. Period swimwear and under-swimwear period underwear let you enjoy the pool, feel confident, and focus on having fun.
Try starting with a short swim on a lighter day to see what works best for you!
@taylorr_dc Is period swimwear a SCAM?? (I think not 🤫) @my secret swim #fyp #periodswimwear #periods #swimwear #mysecretswim
♬ original sound – TAYLOR DC
@mysecretswim What do you use when you swim on ur period? #periodswimwear #periodbikini #period
♬ original sound – mysecretswim