Period swimwear is the latest happening in the world of reusable period protection. If you’ve ever tried period pants, you’ll know all about the life-changing powers of period products that don’t require awkward public toilet tampon changes (or excessive plastic pollution). And wonderfully, the magic doesn’t end there. Leak-proof swimwear is here to bring the same sorcery to your holiday this summer – and we’re over the moon about it.
Getting your period just as you set that Out Of Office at work is one of life’s most annoying experiences. It’s as though Mother Nature knew you had plans to relax and thought she’d better intervene. ‘Coming on’ has long been the quickest way to ruin any sun-drenched dip in the pool, with tampons and sanitary towels not really cutting it and menstrual cups proving dissatisfactory underwater, too. It has always been easy to throw in the beach towel until you’ve finished menstruating – but period-proof swim bottoms are here to save the day. It’s official: you can take a dip without having to worry about surprise leaks or visible Tampax strings.
How does period swimwear work?
Period swimwear works in exactly the same way as period underwear: the super-absorbent lining prevents the need for tampons, pads or cups in and around the water by absorbing period blood and keeping you clean and dry.
Period bikinis and one-piece swimming costumes are designed for light to moderate flows, so they’re best used at the beginning or end of your cycle (unless you’re lucky and don’t tend to bleed heavily at all). You can pop them in for a quick dark machine wash after rinsing them out, let them air day and you’re ready to go ahead the next day. Sans waste. Sustainability creds, check.
As for styles? There are tonnes to choose from – including period swimsuits and period bikini briefs which come with matching bikini tops.
For more from GLAMOUR UK’s Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd. Elsewhere, find period pants for teens and tweens that are perfect for her first period.