We’ve all been there – it’s a hot summer’s day, but you’re on your period like “Thanks, Mother Nature!”.
Or, if you had swimming in school (teen years), you probably didn’t want to go tell the teacher that you’re going to miss this swimming lesson because Aunt Flow’s in town.
To avoid the above situations, just take a look at the best tampons for swimming that got you covered!
My personal go-to are the o.b. Super Plus tampons! Those babies allow me to swim stress-free, but below are other options too.
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Contents
- Best Tampons for Swimming (and Beginners Too) 2024
- Tampax Pearl Active Plastic Light Absorbency Tampons
- U By Kotex Click Compact Tampons
- Amazon Brand - Solimo Plastic Applicator Tampons
- Playtex Sport Tampons
- Tampax Pearl Regular Plastic Tampons
- Oi Organic Cotton Digital Tampons
- O.B. Applicator Free Digital Tampons
- Seventh Generation Organic Cotton Tampons
- Veeda Natural All-Cotton Tampons
- Beppy Soft Comfort Tampons Without string
- What Else Should I Know When Swimming on My Period?
- Frequently Asked Questions (And Answers)
- Q: Can You Go Swimming with a Tampon?
- Q: What Kind of Tampons is Best for Swimming?
- Q: How Long Can You Keep a Tampon in While Swimming?
- Q: Can Tampons Fall Out While Swimming?
- Q: How Often Should You Change Your Tampon While Swimming?
- Q: Is a Tampon Safe for Swimming?
- Q: What Size Tampon Should I Use for Swimming?
- Q: Can a Virgin Wear Tampons During Swimming?
- Q: Do Tampons Hurt When Wearing or Removing Them?
- Summary
Best Tampons for Swimming (and Beginners Too) 2024
Is a tampon safe for swimming? Yes, but the question should be: what kind of tampons are best for swimming?
I’d argue – the ones that offer the most leakage-free time while in the water. Because you must change your tampon once you finish swimming!
Let’s see the best options for that!
Tampax Pearl Active Plastic Light Absorbency Tampons
This tampon contains a motion fit protection that works when you are active. The feature prevents any leaks and gains support from a leak guard braid that stops period leaks before they can happen.
Their ability to stay in position during movements makes them the best tampons for competitive swimming.
Tampax tampons comprise the best tampons for swimming that don’t leak. These tampons offer excellent value for their affordable price, and you can have them on for up to 5 hours of swimming.
A Tampax pearl active tampon is one of the best waterproof tampons for swimming.
Pros
- Does not leak.
- Affordable price that matches the value offered.
- They are waterproof and suitable for swimming.
Cons
- Only suitable for use during light flows.
Editor’s Pick: Best For Swimmers With Light Flow, Or For The Last Days of Period
U By Kotex Click Compact Tampons
The U by Kotex tampons have a compact and small size and are one of the best-rated tampons for swimming.
Why? Their high absorbency capabilities make them outstanding tampons for swimming.
The U by Kotex tampon has a smooth tip that provides for easy insertion and offers excellent comfort to users.
Pros
- These tampons are easy to insert and have high absorbency.
- They are fragrance-free and suitable for use even by allergic individuals.
Cons
- They are more expensive than others.
Editor’s Pick: Good for Someone Looking For an Easy & Sleek Insertion
Amazon Brand - Solimo Plastic Applicator Tampons
The packaging of these tampons is made to serve light, regular and heavy flows. If you experience a heavy flow during your periods, you can subscribe to the super absorbency Solimo tampons.
They offer up to 8 hours of protection without leaks. Their packaging protects from outside infections. However, ensure to change tampons every four to five hours while swimming.
Pros
- They are suitable for light, regular and heavy flows.
- They offer easy insertion as they contain an applicator.
- They have an affordable price.
Cons
- These tampons may feel uncomfortable for newbies.
Editor’s Pick: The Discreet Tampon (No One Will Know What’s Going On In The Bathroom)
Speaking of newbies, I’ve done my research and made a list of the best tampons for beginners, which I advise you read if you’re a newbie in the tampon world and an athlete.
Cora organic tampons would be my top pick because it’s organic, which automatically gets 5 stars from me as a great option for beginners. But don’t take my word for it, go see (read) for yourself.
Playtex Sport Tampons
These are a unique set of tampons that contain a leak guard braid. The Playtex sports tampons offer a smooth removal layer that ensures to provide maximum comfort during that time of the month.
Moreover, they can warrant non-leak support to a swimming individual for up to 8 hours unless you feel uncomfortable.
They are suitable for use by women with a heavy flow during swimming as they protect against any leakages. They are the best tampons for beginners and swimming.
Pros
- They contain a leak guard braid that stops leaking and hence suitable for swimming.
- The FlexFit technology used makes them flexible and comfortable as they move and adjust to your sporty positions.
Cons
- Some material may peel off when wearing and removing them.
Editor’s Pick: Good For a Short Period of Swimming, Not For an 8-hour Chill By The Pool
Tampax Pearl Regular Plastic Tampons
The Tampax regular tampons are fit for light and medium flows. Their purchase comes with a rounded tip applicator that offers comfortable insertion.
The Tampax pearl tampons are the best tampons for swimming teens.
Moreover, their smooth removal during ‘that time of the month’ acts to offer maximum comfort even during swimming.
A leak guard braid is an additional feature of the tampons that prevents any period leaks.
Pros
- They have an applicator that offers comfortable insertion.
- They protect against possible leaks.
- Their price matches the value provided.
Cons
- Cardboard applicator is available, which is great, but it’s not the most comfortable insertion.
Editor’s Pick: I’d Pick These If I Was In My Teenage Years – Easy Insertion, Good Protection
Oi Organic Cotton Digital Tampons
The Oi organic tampons are suitable for use by all women because of their hypoallergenic nature.
They come in different absorbency levels that are suitable for light, medium and massive flows. These tampons offer up to 8 hours of protection against any period leaks.
Oi organic tampons are biodegradable and hence friendly to the environment.
Pros
- These tampons comprise an environmentally-friendly material.
- They offer comfort when worn.
- They are hypoallergenic and suitable for use by all women.
Cons
- Oi tampons lack applicators and may sometimes cause discomfort as you wear them.
Editor’s Pick: Good Choice For an Athletic Beginner Looking for a Small, Discreet Tampon
Personally, I think that organic tampons are the only way to go if you’re going to go the tampon way when it comes to your period.
Therefore, I highly suggest you go and check out my list of the best organic tampons out there!
O.B. Applicator Free Digital Tampons
If you’re wondering: what size tampon should I use for swimming? The answer to that depends on your flow! But don’t worry, O.B. has got you covered.
These tampons come in varied sizes of the regular, super and super plus. These tampons have a design that allows them to expand all-around so they fit your shape and size.
Moreover, O.B. tampons lack bulky applicators, and as such, there isn’t much waste to throw away after use.
O.B. tampons offer irresistible comfort during ‘that time of the month,’ and you can use them even in your most massive period flows. They are the best and smallest tampons for swimming.
Pros
- They are small and convenient to carry.
- These tampons are available in all sizes and designed for the provision of ultimate comfort during swimming.
Cons
- O.B. tampons lack an applicator and may be hard to put on for newbies.
- They are expensive when compared to other brands.
Editor’s Pick: If Organic is Not What You Need, But Absorption Is Crucial – I’d Pick These
Seventh Generation Organic Cotton Tampons
These tampons are made from pure organic cotton and are hypoallergenic for sensitive skin. The Seventh Generation Organic cotton tampons have no fragrance and provide reliability for leak-free protection.
If you’re looking for the best tampons for swimming with heavy flow, then these are it!
Pros
- They are all cotton and natural, and suitable for any sensitive skin types.
- They provide leak-free protection.
- These tampons are affordable.
Cons
- They are not suitable for super massive flows.
Editor’s Pick: If Organic is What You’re Looking For – I’d Pick These (For Up to 2-Hour Swims)
Veeda Natural All-Cotton Tampons
The Veeda tampons are hypoallergenic and suitable for use by women with sensitive skin types. They are made of pure cotton and prevent the growth of toxic shock syndrome bacteria in users.
The Veeda tampons have a compact size and offer maximum protection from leaks.
Pros
- They offer reliable and leak-proof protection.
- They are hypoallergenic and suitable for use on sensitive skin.
- They are affordable.
Cons
- They lack applicators, which may inconvenience some users.
Editor’s Pick: The Best Discreet Organic Tampon With Good Absorption
Beppy Soft Comfort Tampons Without string
Beppy soft comfort tampons have no string, and this means that no one will notice when you are having your periods. The design of these string-less tampons offers maximum comfort and up to 8 hours of protection from leaks.
The Beppy soft comfort tampons feel natural when you are wearing them.
Pros
- They are easy to use.
- They offer maximum comfort as they feel natural and almost like flesh.
Cons
- They are hard to remove due to their string less design, so maybe not the best tampons for beginners.
Editor’s Pick: The Best Feel Tampon For Short Swims (But Probably Not For Total Beginners)
What Else Should I Know When Swimming on My Period?
Tips for Swimming with a Tampon
“Can you go swimming with a tampon?” is a common question among women. When you are at ‘that time of the month’, tampons are the best option to ensure your comfort as you swim.
As you try to identify the best tampons for swimming, here’s what you should know before buying tampons:
Educate YourSelf
You need to have some knowledge of the various sizes of tampons. In most cases, they include; light, regular, super and super plus, which is the bigger-size tampon.
It is advisable to get a multipack the first time you buy tampons, which helps determine your perfect size. Once you get acquainted with the best fitting tampon for your type of flow, you can keep ordering that size.
Absorbency
Choose the right absorbency to avoid leakages. You should ensure to choose the right tampons that can sustain your flow.
For instance, if you have a medium to heavy flow, use a super absorbency.
Also, if you go swimming pretty frequently, then stick to ordering multipacks as your flow probably isn’t the same all throughout the 4 to 7 days of your period.
A light tampon is good for the last days, whereas a super absorbency tampon is better for the first couple of days.
Think Colors (Not For The Tampon)
Ensure to choose the right swimming costumes. Dark swimsuits are a preference for wearing when you are swimming while on your periods.
Also, ensure to select a swimsuit that is comfortable. Your costume should not attract attention to your bottom as that will make you uncomfortable.
Maybe Bring Scissors or Nail Clippers
I may have paranoia but I’d either bring small nail scissors or clippers with me when going to the pool to avoid my tampon’s string coming out to say “why, hello there!” to everyone!
If you’re a teen and your teachers forbid sharp objects in the pool, MAKE SURE you tuck that string well inside your labia, the moisture of the labia will hold it in place as well.
Either way, check twice to ensure that no strings are poking outside of your swimsuit.
Or go with the Beppy tampon reviewed above!
Changing Time
Having a tampon on for 4-5 hours while swimming is okay.
However, if you’re like me, change your tampon more frequently if you feel paranoid.
Either way, always change your tampon when you’re done swimming.
Which Is Easier to Insert For You?
Research on applicators and have your preference.
Plastic applicators offer smooth entry and guarantee convenience for first-timers. Cardboard applicators, on the other hand, are harder to insert but are eco-friendly.
Some tampons lack applicators, and you have to use your fingers for insertion.
[/su_list]How to Swim on Your Period Without a Tampon (Is That an Option?)
Tampons can help you swim when you have your periods.
However, if you are uncomfortable with the use of tampons, purchasing one of the best menstrual cups out there will help greatly – both with less waste and less money spent.
Menstrual cups are used internally just like tampons but hold more volumes compared to tampons. Menstrual cups lack a string that is visible, which makes them invisible and comfortable when swimming.
I’m actually a menstrual cup user as well, I advocate for them to my friends any chance I get. Toxic Shock Syndrom is not a part of the picture (which is not the case for tampons) and menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours – WIN, WIN!
For more information on menstrual cups (what they are, how to use them, the benefits, etc.), just go read my article on the best menstrual cups out there!
If you’re not really sure about these God-sent period products, check out my comparison on menstrual cups vs tampons.
Frequently Asked Questions (And Answers)
Q: Can You Go Swimming with a Tampon?
A: Yes. Tampons are worn internally and are suitable for use when swimming. They act to absorb your menstrual flow before it leaves your body.
You should invest in tampons that have excellent absorbency levels that match your period flows.
Q: What Kind of Tampons is Best for Swimming?
A: Tampons with a leak guard brain and those that offer leak-free protection are the best for swimming.
Q: How Long Can You Keep a Tampon in While Swimming?
A: The standard time for keeping tampons on while swimming is 4-5 hours.
However, if you have a heavy flow, you might check on and change your tampons after every two hours of swimming.
Q: Can Tampons Fall Out While Swimming?
A: Tampons are a safer way of swimming during ‘that time of the month’. They are worn internally, and most of them have a string that sticks outside for easy removal.
Tampons are unlikely to fall out when swimming.
Just make sure you’ve inserted the tampon far enough so you don’t feel it near the opening of your vagina, as that can cause it to slide further down and the tip could come out.
You can know that you haven’t inserted the tampon far enough when you sit and it doesn’t feel comfortable, or if you can feel the tampon.
Q: How Often Should You Change Your Tampon While Swimming?
A: Tampons will absorb pool water as you swim. It is advisable to change your tampons every 4 to 5 hours during swimming to avoid leaks.
Q: Is a Tampon Safe for Swimming?
A: Yes. Tampons, once appropriately worn and they fit, are safe for swimming. Make sure that you use the best tampons for swimming that don’t leak.
You need to ensure that you follow the right procedures for putting on the tampons before you can go swimming with them.
Also, watch out for the best waterproof tampon for swimming as this will guarantee extra safety during swimming.
In my opinion, the U by Kotex tampons are the best tampons for swimming that don’t leak.
Q: What Size Tampon Should I Use for Swimming?
A: The size of tampons to use depends on the intensity of your flow and your body size.
Super absorbency tampons are suitable for massive periods. For light and medium flows, you can use tampons with lower absorbency levels (regular).
Q: Can a Virgin Wear Tampons During Swimming?
A: Most tampons are made for universal use as long as you get the right size and absorbency for yourself. They may cause stretching and sometimes tear of the hymen, but they are safe for use during swimming.
Q: Do Tampons Hurt When Wearing or Removing Them?
A: Tampons may hurt the first time you put them on. However, once you insert them correctly, you should be comfortable with no pain.
Tampons would hurt during removal if you wore them incorrectly or if you’re wearing a tampon when you’re only spotting or don’t have your period at all.
Why would that hurt when removing? Since the tampon’s aim is to ABSORB the bodily fluids, it will also absorb the natural moisture inside the vagina.
Pulling out a dry tampon when your vagina walls are also dry, well, super uncomfortable, it will not slide, you will have to pull it pretty hard!
So, don’t use tampons when you know there’s no blood.
Summary
Overall, the use of tampons is a suitable way of swimming during your periods. Ensure to pick the right sizes of tampon that will provide you comfort.
I’ve highlighted the best tampons for swimming with heavy flow and light flow for above.
Also, absorbencies are a crucial aspect of tampons that you have to consider when purchasing tampons for the purpose of swimming.
Tampons can be worn by anyone including a virgin, and there should be no pain if you insert them correctly.
Further, there are no risks of tampons falling out when you are swimming. It is important to change tampons regularly to avoid any possible infections and leaks.
If you have any questions, drop a line below or contact me personally.
Cynthia Stalde
I’m the girl behind Miss Coty. Here I talk about the struggles of womanhood – from hair removal all the way to deep facial wrinkles in your 20s. More about me.
