A first period can start during a lesson, training session, gala or in the changing room.
For the swimmer, it may be unexpected and frightening. For the adult supporting them, the best response is calm and practical.
First: protect privacy
Move the conversation away from teammates where possible.
A simple response is:
"That is okay. Let's get you somewhere private and work out what you need."
Do not announce what has happened or turn it into a lesson for the whole group.
Help them access a toilet or changing space
Give the swimmer time to check what has happened, change underwear or swimwear and use a period product.
If the facility has private cubicles, tell them where they are. If they need help finding a suitable space, ask what would make them comfortable rather than assuming.
Help them find a suitable product
If the swimmer has not brought anything, the club or facility may have emergency products.
Remember that standard disposable or reusable pads are not suitable for wearing in the pool. They can be used before or after swimming, but a swimmer who wants to get back in the water will need an option designed or suitable for swimming, such as period swimwear, a tampon or a menstrual cup.
Do not pressure a young person to insert a tampon or cup. If they are not comfortable with an internal product and no suitable swimwear is available, it may be better to finish the session and help them plan for next time.
Contact a parent or carer where appropriate
A young swimmer may want or need their parent or carer, especially if this is their first period.
Follow your club or facility safeguarding procedures and the young person's age and circumstances. Do not make them feel that starting a period is a medical emergency.
Let the swimmer decide how they feel
If they have a suitable product and feel well, they may want to continue swimming.
If they are upset, in pain, do not have a product that works in water or simply want to go home, support that too.
Avoid phrases such as "You will be fine, just get back in" or "You cannot swim now." The right answer depends on the swimmer and the practical situation.
If there has been a leak
Help the swimmer access spare clothing or a towel and deal with any cleaning discreetly.
If equipment, a bench or the changing area needs cleaning, follow normal hygiene procedures without making the swimmer feel responsible for causing a problem.
After the session
If appropriate, quietly explain that periods can be irregular at first and that being prepared for future sessions can help.
Direct them and their parent or carer to reliable period-product information rather than giving detailed medical advice yourself.
Club preparation
Every club working with young people should know in advance:
- where emergency period products are kept;
- which products are suitable only for dry use;
- who a young swimmer can speak to;
- what private changing options exist;
- how a parent or carer will be contacted if needed.
Remember
The swimmer is likely to remember how the adults around them reacted.
A calm, private response can turn a potentially upsetting moment into something manageable.
Related LTM content
- What If My First Period Starts at Swimming?
- Period Products for Swimming: What Coaches Need to Know
- Leaks at the Pool: How a Coach Should Respond
- How to Talk to a Swimmer About Periods
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