If you hate the idea of fussing around with tampons or menstrual cups during your cycle when you’re planning a day in the water, period swimwear might be the answer for you.
Like period underwear, period swimwear feature layers of extra gusset protection that absorbs menstrual blood and keeps you dry. Ready to jump in the water? We’ve found our favourite period swimmers so that time of the month is that last thing on your mind.
How does period swimwear work?
Period swimwear absorbs menstrual blood with a gusset protected with multiple layers of fabric. Like period underwear, the layers usually include a moisture-wicking fabric that pulls wetness away from the skin and absorbs the blood, multiple middle layers to prevent spills and a waterproof top layer ideal for swimming. A good pair will lock in the blood, won’t smell and protect against leaks.
Does period swimwear work?
Depending on the quality of your swimwear, a good pair of period cossies will keep you leakproof and protected – even with a heavy flow. Generally speaking, period swimwear is best for lighter days with prolonged wear. However if you’re planning to go for a quick dip on heavier days, you should be more.
Feel free to wear your period swimwear on its own, or alongside traditional period products like tampons on menstrual cups for added protection.
Where to buy period swimwear in stores Australia
You can purchase period swimwear online and in select stores. Consider things like level of protection, style of the cossies, fabrication, fit and price when making your purchase. Some of our favourites include ModiBodi, Love Luna and Eco Period. Depending on which pair you choose, you can buy your swimwear from the brands brick-and-mortar store, their online shop, or from retailers like Myer, Big W and The Iconic.
The best period one-piece swimwear
The four layers of gusset protection is perfect for moderate flows, holding roughly three tampons-worth so you can go without or wear these alongside traditional period products on heavier days. Periods aside, they’re also just a great pair of swimmers with a water-repellent and chlorine resistant fabric, hi-cut design, built-in bra and cute cut-out.
Love doing laps in the pool? This Slix Ocean range is for you. Each swimsuit is handmade and made to order, features a Y-tie up back in a sleek one-piece design. The fabrication is chlorine-resistant, made from regenerated and recycled materials, and of course, period proof to keep you protected.
The best period two-piece swimwear
Ideal for light to moderate days, these briefs hold approximately two tampons-worth so you’ll stay protected and leakproof during your morning swim. Fitting like a regular pair of cossie bottoms, it’s made from recycled UV50+ fabric with a hi-cut design and a fast absorbing lining.
These Amazon bikini bottoms have a great star rating at 4.4 stars across over 200 reviews. Ideal for girls, teens and women, it’s made from a breathable and quick-drying fabric to keep you comfortable while preventing leaks. The high-waisted design is also great for that fuller coverage look.
Ranging from sizes XXS to 3XL, these swim shorts are ideal for a moderate to heavy flow. It features a leak proof lining that extends to the back waist seam for further protection. The brand is run by women, for women and 100% Aussie owned with sustainability at their core.
Designed with surfers in mind, the high waist boy short design style has a built-in leak-proof protection layer to hold about one tampon-worth of menstrual blood. The fuller coverage means no awkward adjusting, pulling or twisting when you’re busy catching waves. Wear it on its own for lighter days or for extra support on heavier flows.
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