Your first period can start anywhere: at home, at school, on the way somewhere, in the changing room, or just before you are due to get into the pool.
If it happens at swimming, you have not done anything wrong and you do not need to panic. It can feel awkward when you are somewhere busy or wearing a swimsuit, but there are simple things you can do.
How will I know it has started?
A first period does not always look like lots of bright red blood.
You might notice a small red, pink or brownish mark in your underwear or swimsuit, or you might notice when you go to the toilet. First periods can be light, and periods can be irregular when they first begin.
You might have some cramps or feel tired. You might also feel completely normal.
There is no one way a first period is supposed to feel.
What should I do first?
Find an adult you trust. At swimming, that could be your coach, swimming teacher, team manager, parent, carer or another trusted adult.
You can keep it very simple:
"I think I have started my period. Can I go to the toilet?"
or:
"Can I speak to you privately?"
You do not have to explain anything else if you do not want to.
Go somewhere private and check what you need. If you have a period product with you, use the one you feel comfortable with. If you do not have anything, ask an adult if there are emergency products available.
What if I was about to get into the pool?
You can still swim when you have your period, but you need a product that is suitable for use in water.
Standard disposable or reusable pads are designed to absorb liquid, so they are not suitable for wearing in the pool. Options that may be suitable for swimming include period swimwear, tampons or menstrual cups, depending on what you are comfortable using and the product instructions.
You do not have to use an internal product just because you swim. If you are new to periods and are not comfortable using a tampon or cup, period swimwear may be an option. A parent, carer or other trusted adult can help you work out what feels right for you.
What if I have blood on my swimsuit or towel?
Leaks can happen, especially when periods are new and unpredictable.
Tell someone you trust and ask for somewhere private to change. If possible, use a spare swimsuit, underwear, shorts or towel. Put any stained clothing in a waterproof or washable bag to take home.
You should not have to explain what happened in front of other swimmers.
A leak can feel like a huge deal in the moment, but it is simply period blood. It does not mean you have done anything wrong.
Can I still swim?
Usually, yes.
If you have a suitable period product, feel comfortable and feel well enough, you can get in the pool and carry on with your session.
But you do not have to push through if you feel unwell. If you have strong pain, feel dizzy, faint, sick or very tired, tell an adult and take a break.
What if I feel embarrassed telling my coach or teacher?
You do not need a big conversation.
You could say:
"I need to sort out my period."
"I need a few minutes in the changing room."
"I need to change my period product."
"I do not feel well enough to swim right now."
A supportive coach or teacher only needs enough information to help you. They do not need personal details you do not want to share.
A small swimming-bag period kit can help
Even before your periods start, it can help to keep a few things in your swim bag:
- a period product you know how to use;
- spare underwear;
- a spare swimsuit if you have one;
- shorts or comfortable clothes for after swimming;
- a small waterproof or washable bag for wet or stained clothing.
If you use period swimwear, you might also carry ordinary period underwear or a pad for before or after the pool.
What happens after my first period?
Your next period might not arrive exactly four weeks later. Periods can be irregular when they first start.
You do not need to become an expert straight away. You can begin by noticing when your period starts, how long it lasts and how you feel.
Over time, you will learn what is normal for your body.
Remember
Starting your period does not mean you have to stop swimming.
You might need a few extra minutes, the right product, a change of clothes or some help from an adult.
That is all.
Your period is something your body is doing. It is not something you need to apologise for.