Last summer, I saw a few women swimming comfortably in the hotel pool where I stayed without using tampons. Now I'm thinking, is this really healthy? I use tampons, but I'm so unused to them that I feel uncomfortable every time. Do you think I should use pads, tampons, or go completely natural? Has anyone tried it?
I also didn't have the courage to try a tampon last summer and just used a pad. I experienced a disaster in the sea when the pad started to swell up and come loose in the water. So, tampons are definitely practical, but if you're feeling uncomfortable, maybe you should try different sizes.
If you're going to swim while on your period, I definitely recommend using a tampon or menstrual cup. Pads lose their effectiveness immediately in water, and going in naturally increases the risk of infection. If you're not comfortable, you can consult your doctor for suggestions on different products.
So, while you're praising tampons here, those women are swimming comfortably; after all, no one ignores what kind of hygiene problems they might face. It's a bit like a personal preference. Maybe the discomfort you feel with tampons is a psychological reflection.
In fact, bleeding underwater during the menstrual period decreases because pressure reduces blood flow. However, this doesn't mean it completely stops, as there might be a risk of infection. For hygiene reasons, tampons or menstrual cups should be preferred. The feeling of discomfort may be a temporary adjustment period, and doctors generally recommend trying different brands to see their effects.
Let me add that swimming in the sea with a pad wasn't something I had planned, but when I saw that women at that hotel weren't using tampons, I got a little suspicious. Now the idea of a menstrual cup seems reasonable, but I haven't tried that either.
I think those women were either on the last day of their period or not fully on their period. Swimming without a tampon, especially in enclosed water like pools, is risky for both themselves and others. But of course, not everyone openly discusses everything.
I don't understand why as women we are still so constrained by this issue. Menstruation itself is nothing to be ashamed of. However, behaviors that put others' hygiene at risk, especially in shared spaces, seem a bit irresponsible. Freedom shouldn't harm the health of others.
I'm thinking about trying a menstrual cup, but the process of inserting it seems really difficult. Do you have any fears about it being impractical in places like the sea or a pool? Sometimes I can't even insert a tampon correctly.
Honestly, the women at the hotel seemed more relaxed than you. Is your discomfort more about your inner pressure than a physical issue with your tampon? If everyone feels good in their own way, your situation might just be personal stress 🫠
